It’s a wild weather week in New Orleans, yet we still have plenty of live music and cultural events to help keep you entertained in or Weekly Picks. Stay safe and be sure to double check your venue to confirm the latest details. Check out our OffBeat Weekly Picks (September 12– 18).
Photo by Christopher Briscoe
On Friday, September 13, legendary bluesman Little Freddie King takes the stage at d.b.a. on Frenchmen Street at 6 p.m. Known for his electric energy and gritty Delta blues style, King is a New Orleans institution, keeping the spirit of the blues alive with his deep, soulful performances. Having performed for decades, his raw guitar playing and gravelly voice are both timeless and iconic. With songs that reflect his personal experiences, Little Freddie King’s show promises to be a powerful expression of New Orleans’ musical roots. Learn more or purchase tickets here. Look for LFK’s newest album to be released ny Newvelle Records in late October.
Dr. Michael White, photo by Syndey Byrd
Also on Friday, September 13, at Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro, Dr. Michael White and the Original Liberty Jazz Band perform at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. Dr. White, a revered clarinetist and music historian, has spent his career preserving and promoting classic New Orleans jazz. His performances with the Original Liberty Jazz Band capture the spirit of early jazz, from its brass band beginnings to the swing and improvisation that defines the genre. Learn more or purchase tickets here.
Louis Michot. Photo by cajunzydecophotos.
On Friday, September 13, and again on Saturday, September 14, Grammy Award-winning musician Louis Michot will present his innovative project, Rêve du Troubadour, at the Contemporary Arts Center at 7:30 p.m. Michot, best known for his work with the Lost Bayou Ramblers, has been a driving force in bringing Louisiana French music into contemporary spaces. His new work blends traditional Cajun sounds with modern influences, creating a one-of-a-kind musical experience that honors his heritage while pushing its boundaries. Saturday’s performance features special guest Corey Ledet, an acclaimed accordionist in the Creole and Zydeco traditions. Learn more or purchase tickets here.
On Saturday, September 14, Galactic performs at Tipitina’s, featuring powerhouse vocalist Anjelika “Jelly” Joseph, along with special guests Renée Gros and Tiago Guy. Galactic, with over 25 years of musical history, continues to push the boundaries of funk, jazz and rock. Their evolving sound, now featuring the dynamic energy of Joseph, has earned them acclaim on both the local and global stage. Together, they bring high-energy performances that get the crowd moving. You can learn more or purchase tickets here.
Aurora Nealand performing in 2016. Photo by OffBeat/Noé Cugny
On Monday, September 16, The Maison will host Aurora Nealand & the Royal Roses at 6 p.m. Nealand, one of New Orleans’ most versatile and innovative musicians, leads this traditional jazz ensemble with flair and authenticity. A multi-instrumentalist and vocalist, she’s revered for her ability to channel the sounds of early New Orleans jazz while adding her unique modern twist. The Royal Roses pay tribute to the traditional jazz greats while creating vibrant, contemporary interpretations, making their performances feel both timeless and fresh. You can learn more here.
On Wednesday, September 18 at 6 p.m., the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra will present Bach & Ginastera at the New Marigny Theatre. This performance pairs the Baroque mastery of Johann Sebastian Bach with the 20th-century Argentine composer Alberto Ginastera, offering an intriguing juxtaposition of classical styles. Under the direction of the LPO, audiences will be treated to both the intricacies of Bach’s compositions and the bold, rhythmic innovations of Ginastera, providing a captivating evening for classical music lovers. You can learn more here.
Weekly Picks (September 12– 18)
