With the holidays upon us, we have an upcoming week of live music and cultural events in New Orleans to keep you entertained! Check out this week’s OffBeat Weekly Picks (12/14 – 12/20):

Dawn Richard and Spencer Zahn

Dawn Richard, the electro-revival dynamo and former member of the chart-topping group Danity Kane, is set to grace the stage with the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra (LPO) and multi-instrumentalist, producer and composer Spencer Zahn, this Thursday, December 14, 2023, at 6 p.m.. The collaboration promises to be a unique blend of pop and classical elements that kicks off the LPO’s highly anticipated 23-24 Music at the Museum series.  The New Orleans Museum of Art provides a picturesque backdrop for this musical collaboration, offering a setting that complements the artistic fusion expected from Richard and Zahn as they debut their collaborative album, Pigments. Learn more or purchase tickets here.

Songwriter Kelcy Mae, lead vocalist of the local Americana/Alt-country group, Ever More Nest, is hosting the 5th Biennial Merry Songwriter Revue on Thursday, December 14, 2023, at BJ’s Lounge. The event will feature an impressive lineup of talented songwriters, including Ted Hefko, Mia Borders, Lilli Lewis, Bruisey Peets, Shawn Williams, Sarah Quintana, Sam Doores, Sabine McCalla and, of course, Kelcy Mae and Ever More Nest. Attendees can expect an intimate evening beginning at 7 p.m., filled with brand-new seasonal songs, a variety of holiday classics from different genres, and entertaining tales behind the original compositions. Admission is $15 at the door, and Happy Dumplings Nola will be on-site to provide food options. You can learn more about this event here.

Big Sam’s Funky Nation

Get ready for a night of New Orleans style musical fusion at Big Sam’s Holiday Jam featuring Big Sam’s Funky Nation, along with Pell, Flagboy Giz, Quiana Lynell and Sporty’s Brass Band on Saturday, December 16, 2023, at 8 p.m. at Tipitina’s. The event promises an unforgettable evening, blending funk, jazz, rock and hip-hop into a great live experience. Known for their boisterous performances and southern charm, this ensemble brings the essence of New Orleans to life. Learn more or purchase tickets here.

The 14th Annual Booker Birthday Bash takes place on Sunday, December 17, 2023, at the Maple Leaf Bar. This evening features talented piano players such as Tom Worrell, CR Gruver, River Eckert, Kyle Roussel, Luciano Leães, Keiko Komaki, Tom McDermott and Josh Paxton. It will also include special guest Deacon John Moore, remembrances of Booker by John Parsons and master of ceremonies Fred Kasten. Doors open at 7 p.m., and the music kicks off at 8 p.m. Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 at the door and are available online or at the door one hour before the event. You can learn more or purchase your tickets here.

Speaking of Birthdays, Professor Longhair’s Birthday Bash will take place at Tipitina’s on Tuesday, December 19, 2023. Doors open at 7:30 p.m., with the show starting at 8:30 p.m.. The night promises to be an evening of musical brilliance in honor of Professor Longhair’s enduring legacy and will feature performances by special guests Keiko Komaki, River Eckert, Luciano Leães, Mikey B3, Ross Hoppe and Davis Rogan. A house band, comprised of Michael Skinkus, Eddie Christmas, John Fohl, Tom Worrell and Casandra Faulconer, will provide additional musical support. Learn more or purchase tickets here.

Judith Owen and Harry Shearer.

Also on Tuesday, December 19th, at 8 p.m.,  the 18th Annual Christmas Without Tears Benefit, hosted by vocalist Judith Owen and actor-humorist Harry Shearer, graces the Orpheum Theater. The evening will be a delightful mix of music, laughter, and special guests, featuring a stellar lineup including Brian Batt, Phil DeGruy, Samantha Fish, Helen Gillet, John Goodman, Sonny Landreth, Zachary Richard, Kermit Ruffins, Solid Harmony, Tonya Boyd-Cannon and more. Originating as an intimate gathering in Shearer and Owen’s Santa Monica home, the tradition has grown into a heartwarming house party that engages both performers and audience members alike. Since its public debut in 2005, Christmas Without Tears has been a guilt-free way to have fun while giving back tot he community. All proceeds will support the Innocence Project New Orleans, dedicated to freeing the wrongly convicted. For more details and tickets, go here.