WWOZ 90.7 has 34 reasons to celebrate today as we mark the anniversary of the New Orleans music and culture radio station’s first broadcast on December 4, 1980.

Through hurricanes, parades, festivals, recessions, relocations, the on-air force of nature that was Ernie K-Doe, the shenanigans of “Once and Future DJ” Davis Rogan, and more legendary “only in New Orleans” moments than just about anywhere else, WWOZ is still going strong.

The listener supported station will celebrate 34 years of broadcasting the best of New Orleans music on Friday, December 19, at Tipitina’s, which served as WWOZ’s home in the early days.

The event, Behind the Curtain: 34 Years of WWOZ 90.7, will feature Davell Crawford’s tribute to James Booker, Ivan Neville’s tribute to the Neville Brothers, and DJ Soul Sister.

The musical performances will also track WWOZ’s journey from its early days at Tipitina’s through the years in Armstrong Park to the station’s current French Market location.

The three distinct eras can be closely associated with Booker’s piano genius, the heyday of the Neville Brothers, and the rebounding of the soul of New Orleans in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, which forced WWOZ out of Armstrong Park.

Tickets are $19 in advance and $21 at the door. A limited number of VIP tickets will also be available for $51, which includes an open bar and balcony viewing.

Join us in wishing WWOZ a happy birthday with many more to come!