It’s another amazing week in New Orleans and there’s no shortage of live music and cultural events to keep you entertained! Check out our OffBeat Weekly Picks ( June 20 – June 26).
Al “Carnival Time” Johnson. Photo: Greg Miles
On Thursday, June 20, 2024, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., Café Istanbul will host the 85th birthday of Al “Carnival Time” Johnson. The event is a community celebration and guests are encouraged to bring dishes to share. With a big stage and musical equipment available, musicians are especially welcome to join the festivities. Johnson is a legendary figure in New Orleans music, best known for his iconic Mardi Gras anthem “Carnival Time.” His career spans several decades, during which he has become synonymous with the festive spirit of Mardi Gras. Learn more at www.cafeistanbulnola.com.
Looking for something fun to do on a budget? On Friday, June 21, Tipitina’s will host another exciting evening at a price that can’t be beat with their Free Fridays Concert Series. This week features Good Enough For Good Times and Bakey’s Brew with performances kicking off sat 8 p.m. Sponsored by New Orleans & Company, Crystal Hot Sauce, and Crescent Canna, this free concert series aims to provide accessible live music experiences for all. You can view the full summer series lineup to learn more at Tipitinas.com.
Also on Friday, Benjamin Cousins and his band, The Sonic Architects, will perform live at Chickie Wah Wah. Cousins, a New Orleans native and Selmer Paris Artist, began his musical journey at 14 and honed his skills at NOCCA, Berklee College of Music and Temple University. Guided by mentors like Edward “Kidd” Jordan and Donald Harrison Jr., Cousins aims to create transformative musical experiences that reflect his personal journey and offer a blend of past influences and future optimism. Tickets are priced at $15 for students in advance, $20 for general advance purchase, and $25 at the door, plus sales tax and fees. Doors open at 7 p.m. with the show starting at 9 p.m. Learn more at ChickieWahWah.com.
From June 21-23, at 8 p.m., the Marigny Opera House will be the site of a poignant and powerful performance by the Mélange Dance Company. “The UpStairs Lounge” commemorates the 51st anniversary of the tragic arson that claimed 32 lives at the UpStairs Lounge, a safe haven for the gay community in 1970s New Orleans. Through dynamic choreography, theatrical storytelling, and live music, the performance honors the memories of those lost and celebrates the vibrant community that thrived there. Tickets range from $10 to $75, with proceeds supporting the ongoing remembrance and cultural preservation efforts. Learn more at MarignyOperaHouse.org.
Gothic rock enthusiasts can look forward to a rare performance by Clan of XYMOX, with Curse Mackey and SINE opening at the House of Blues on Sunday, June 23, at 6:30 p.m. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to experience the band’s dark, atmospheric sound in a live setting. Known for their pioneering contributions to the gothic and darkwave genres, Clan of XYMOX’s concert is a must-see for fans of moody, immersive music. Tickets are $30. and available online in advance or eat the door. You can learn more about the event at www.houseofblues.com.
On Monday, June 24, at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m., Snug Harbor will feature bassist, composer, and part-time New Orleanian Neal Caine. Known for his long-standing role as Harry Connick Jr.’s bassist, Caine’s talents as a leader and composer are equally impressive. His trio’s latest album, “Skip to the Lou,” showcases his deep connection to his native St. Louis while drawing inspiration from a diverse array of sources, including KRS-One, Count Basie, and personal relationship experiences. The album is distinguished by Caine’s robust grooves, inventive melodic twists and a delightful sense of musical humor. You can learn more or purchase tickets here.
Weekly Picks (June 20 – June 26)
