New Orleans music enthusiasts are getting ready for the upcoming Fessy Awards, to be be held at Tipitina’s Walk of Fame on Tuesday, May 2, at 7 p.m. The event, presented by the Krewe of FessHead, is an annual tradition that recognizes musicians and individuals who have significantly impacted the music scene in New Orleans.

FessHead Krewe and flag at Jazz Fest. Photo: Golden Richard III

Thirty-three years ago, a group of friends from around the country decided to meet in New Orleans for Jazz Fest. Knowing how difficult it was to find your people at the Fair Grounds, they came up with an idea that would change their Jazz Fest experience forever: they simply made a gold head in the likeness of New Orleans music icon, Professor Longhair and mounted it on a 10-foot pole— and the Krewe of FessHead was born.

Since then, the gold FessHead and the Krewe have become a part of the Jazz Fest culture. Every Jazz Fest, you can find the Krewe of FessHead dancing under the gold head of Professor Longhair on the Fair Grounds.

In 2018, FessHead members came up with a great idea to show their gratitude and appreciation for the music of New Orleans and those who make it. They carefully chose a select group of musicians or individuals dedicated to the music of New Orleans—those who have been a  positive force, on and off the bandstand, basically saying,”We see you and thank you.” The recipients receive the unparalleled “Fessy Award.” The Fessy is an eight-inch golden replica of the FessHead that has made 33 consecutive Jazz Fests. The awards have now become an annual symbol of appreciation to the people who make a difference through music. Some of the past Fessy Award winners include Big Chief Monk Boudreaux, George Porter Jr., Quint Davis, Art Neville, Cyril Neville, Ian Neville, Andres Osborne, Frenchy, John Gros, Dave Margulies, Marc Paradis, Leo Nocentelli, Tom Worrell and more. The awards pay tribute to New Orleans music’s rich history and culture while also celebrating the individuals who have contributed to its continued success. 

This year’s Fessy Award winners include Ivan Neville, Willie Green, Irma Thomas, Sonny Schneidau, Galactic, Glenn Sears, Mike Lemmler and OffBeat publisher Jan Ramsey. These artists and industry figures have all played a vital role in shaping the city’s music culture.

The Krewe of FessHead invites everyone to show gratitude and appreciation to those who make a difference through music here in New Orleans.