Sonny Schneidau, the longtime Director of Tours and Talent for the House of Blues New Orleans, has announced the he will be leaving his position at the venue in the coming months. The exact timing of his departure has not be determined, as he will stick with the HOB until his successor has been hired.
“The decision to step down is based on my desire to make a change after 22 years. It has been a dream come true to continue serving the live music lovers in my beloved hometown,” said Schneidau in a new press release. “My favorite Beatle, George Harrison, with whom I share the same birthday, wrote that ‘All Things Must Pass’. To my dear friends at House of Blues and Live Nation, I offer my deepest gratitude with special thanks to HOB’s founder Isaac Tigrett for opening the door. I look forward to the future and the great adventures that lie ahead.”
Schneidau began his career in 1977, when he signed on as as the original talent buyer at iconic New Orleans club Tipitina’s–a club that he helped found–at the young age of 18. After 16 years navigating the ins and outs of the local music scene with Tipitina’s, Schneidau brought his services to the House of Blues New Orleans when the venue planted its roots in 1993. He has racked up a few accolades during his 22 year tenure with HOB, including two “Talent Buyer of the Year” awards from Pollstar, a renowned industry publication. During his time at the French Quarter music establishment, Schneidau brought in a variety of A-list acts, including Elton John, Bob Dylan, Eric Clapton, Johnny Cash, Foo Fighters, John Mayer, The Black Keys and Trombone Shorty, just to name a few.
On the subject of Schneidau’s departure, President of House of Blues Talent Michael Yerke said, “Sonny is a legend in our industry. His passion for the music and respect for the artists are among the primary reasons that HOB New Orleans has long been a must play for national touring acts.”
House of Blues New Orleans General Manager, Robert Rizzuto, added, “I’ve been extremely fortunate to work closely with Sonny for the last 5 years. He has a limitless knowledge of the music industry and a lifetime of experience which we will all miss dearly. Sonny has been instrumental in bringing countless national acts to New Orleans and has the ear for recognizing and introducing new artists many of which now have prominent careers. He is unmatched with his dedication, love for the venue and the live music industry. Sonny was one of the original employees at House of Blues New Orleans and his eye for talent has brought over 2.5 million music fans to their feet. I know he will undoubtedly be back in the New Orleans music scene in the future.”
There is currently no word on Schneidau’s next move, but we’ll be sure to let you know when we find out what’s in store for this titan of the New Orleans live music scene.
