Singer-songwriter Andrew Duhon has shared his favourite spots for live music in his hometown of New Orleans, from acoustic sets at The Tigermen Den to candlelit piano acts at Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar. Duhon, who tours nationally with his folk and blues trio, emphasises the city's unique atmosphere.
Duhon recommends Tipitina's, a rustic juke joint that opened in 1977 and is named after a song by Professor Longhair. It hosts diverse acts, including bounce artist Big Freedia, and offers a jam-packed Mardi Gras programme. 'It feels like New Orleans,' says Duhon.
Another favourite is the Maple Leaf Bar, also in Uptown, which has been hosting live acts since 1974. It features funk, blues, zydeco, R&B and jazz, and occasionally sees surprise appearances by household names like Bruce Springsteen and Jon Batiste. Duhon notes it is next to the excellent restaurant Jacque-Imo's, making for a perfect night out.
Duhon also highlights BJ's in the Bywater neighbourhood as a place where locals gather, and suggests tuning into WWOZ 90.7 FM, a community-operated radio station, and visiting the Louisiana Music Factory record shop on Frenchmen Street for local records and recommendations.
