Fall Membership Drive Shout Out

Here's something you should see: a thank you video, made for the greatest listeners in the universe. Your continued support allows us to keep on Guarding the Groove! And a big shout out to all the musicians, show hosts, volunteers, food donors, photographers, and everyone else who made our recent Fall Membership Drive a smashing success.

» Video: Thank you, listeners

» More Membership Drive thank-yous!

Membership Drive Photos and Videos

Check out our recap of all the fine entertainment from the Fall Membership Drive. Our Video team recorded some three dozen in-studio performances, including Kermit Ruffins & the BBQ Swingers, the Iguanas, Erica Falls, the Soul Rebels and many more. On top of that, our volunteer photographers captured all the musicians, volunteers, and staff: our gallery includes 60 of their best shots.

» Video: In-studio performances

» Photo highlights

Thanks, Arthur Cohen!

In this month of giving thanks, we extend ours to Arthur Cohen, WWOZ's outgoing Chief Content Officer. After a long career in non-commercial radio, Arthur came out of retirement in late 2015 to take on a leadership position at WWOZ during a pivotal time for the station. In his two years with us, he helped reorganize and update WWOZ, bringing notable advancements to our on-air, video, and Jazz Fest operations. We appreciate Arthur for his energy and intelligence, his passion for WWOZ and New Orleans, and his sensible, sensitive leadership. Arthur resumed his retirement this week.

» Photos: Arthur Cohen at WWOZ

Treme Creole Gumbo Festival, November 18-19

The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation presents the 10th Treme Creole Gumbo Festival in Armstrong Park, Saturday, November 18 and Sunday, November 19. This festival is a premiere brass band showcase, a fact confirmed by the lineup, which includes the Hot 8, Rebirth, Pinettes, Free Agents, and more. The festival will offer a smorgasbord of gumbo in a variety of styles: gumbo z’herbes, shrimp and oyster, chicken and andouille, Creole filé, dark roux, gluten-free and even vegan. Admission is free.

» Treme Creole Gumbo Festival lineup & more

Volunteer Spotlight: David 'Deej' Johnson

David 'Deej' Johnson, our Monday afternoon front desk volunteer, is also a working musician with 'The Budz,' with whom he plays percussion, washboard, and sings backup vocals. Deej grew up in New York, where he started to play music at age 13. He received a lot of encouragement and mentoring from his cousin, the drummer Ben Riley. Deej made New Orleans his home in November 2012. "I love the city!" says Deej "This is the place where you want to be for music." Thanks for all you do for 'OZ and New Orleans, Deej!

» Learn about volunteering at WWOZ

Show Host Spotlight: Sally Young

Although Sally Young came to WWOZ a few years after the station had relocated to its present home in the French Market Corporation building, it's hard to think of a time without her warm, cheerful presence on the airwaves. Her knowledge of New Orleans music, and her longtime friendships with musicians and the cultural community make for good conversations and great music on the Thursday morning Traditional Jazz Show from 9-11 am. Thanks for adding your special touch to 'OZ, Sally!

» More Sally Young

In Memoriam: Fats Domino

RIP to Antoine "Fats" Domino, Jr., the singular New Orleans cultural torchbearer, pianist and singer-songwriter, who passed away last week at the age of 89. One of the most recognizable figures of 20th century music, his unique style contributed to the evolution of rhythm & blues into rock’n’roll. During his career, Domino made twenty gold records, made the Billboard charts over 100 times, and sold over 65 million records worldwide.

» In Memoriam: Fats Domino

Three Weekend Second Lines

This weekend, three second lines will hit the streets of New Orleans. The Second Line for Equal Justice happens on Saturday, November 4 at noon. Black Men of Labor will step out Saturday, November 4 at 2:30p to celebrate the life of Deborah "Big Red" Cotton, and the We Are One Second Line Parade is scheduled for Sunday, November 5 at 2p. Get the route sheets and all the latest from Takin' It to the Streets.

» Takin' It to the Streets this weekend

» Black Men of Labor photo essay

Recipe: Creole Gumbo

The Treme Creole Gumbo Festival happens again this November, and with it comes the opportunity to taste some great gumbo. Get your palate primed with this recipe, which demonstrates in epic detail the complexity of great gumbo.

» Recipe: Creole Gumbo