The Ogden Museum of Southern Art will host a musical tribute to late New Orleans singer/songwriter and musician, Gary Hirstius, this Thursday, May 30. Members of his original bands will be joined by personal friends and fellow musicians, such as Kim Carson, for an evening celebrating the life and music of the man known for over 30 years as the New Orleans “Rock & Roll Detective.” This week marks one year since Hirstius’ untimely death at the age of 56.

Gary Hirstius

Hirstius was a private investigator by day and staple Bourbon Street musician by night, as well as an accomplished songwriter. He was known locally for his songwriting and would go on to influence other local musicians with his kindness and generosity, recalled Kim Carson in his obituary in OffBeat shortly after his death in May of 2012.

Gary’s music career saw the production of four CDs, the last of which, Waterline, was reviewed in OffBeat in 2007. His last recording has yet to be released, as he was working on it just before his passing. However, his music will be heard live once again on May 30 at the special Ogden After Hours featuring the Storyville Jazz Band, led by Gary’s father Bruce Hirstius, as well as Tommy Malone and Ray Ganucheau who will also perform some of Gary’s own songs.

In addition to performances from Kim Carson and Jim McCormick, perhaps the highlight of the evening may be the live reunion of Gary’s original bands, Lil’ Brooklyn and Junior Mays, which reportedly have not played together since their days on Bourbon Street with Gary as lead singer. Doors are at 6 p.m. with musical performances also beginning at 6 p.m.

The Ogden After Hours’ “Lagniappe” series will open the May 30 event from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. with OffBeat‘s own Elsa Hahne as the featured author for a special book-signing of her latest publication, The Gravy: In the Kitchen with New Orleans Musicians. Miss Linda’s Soul Food, a Mint Julep bar and the Kids’ Arts & Activity table will also be among the Lagniappe festivities.