As a lifelong New Orleanian, I was raised on the music of Pete Fountain, Louis Armstrong, Al Hirt, Louis Prima and so many other greats. In my childhood house on Belfort street across from the Fairgrounds, one of the most played albums at the Dudoussat house was Pete Fountain’s South Rampart Street Parade. Dad was always proud to recount to anyone who would listen that Pete Fountain was his family’s paperboy as a kid.

There’s no doubt that growing up in New Orleans inspired and influenced me to become a singer and actor at a young age.  I’m honored to be the Director of Special Projects and a member of WWOZ and I invite you to join me in Guarding the Groove. Like so many of you reading this, I truly love this place!

OZ is way beyond special... this multimedia powerhouse does so much more than playing music.  Last year alone, we broadcast 172 live performances spotlighting over 1,038 musicians! We are the go-to place on the planet when the time comes to celebrate the lives of true New Orleans legends like Dr. John, Fats Domino, Dave Bartholomew, Allen Toussaint and so many others. And, the good news is, their music continues to live on through WWOZ for generations to come.

Whether you live here or halfway across the world, we’re here for you 24/7 and can only continue with your support. Please become a member or renew your membership today!

-Louis Dudoussat WWOZ
Director of Special Projects