In Memoriam

We've lost some of our most beloved musicians and other friends who've shared and contributed richness to the musical tapestry of New Orleans and the world. Please join us in remembering their songs and their spirits. Use the "Comments" section below to add your own tributes to anyone we've missed.

  Charles "Action" Jackson | George Wein

  Ellis MarsalisArt Neville | Dave Bartholomew | Dr. John

Fats Domino | Pete Fountain | Allen Toussaint 
 

 

In Memoriam: Michael Kopacz

Fri, 10/18/19
Michael Dugué Kopacz passed away on Sunday, October 13, 2019. He played an important role in the history of WWOZ, devising our call letters (Wonderful Wizard of OZ -- pay no attention to the man behind the curtain!) before we first went on the air in 1980. Known as "the Wi... Read more

In Memoriam: Leigh "Little Queenie" Harris

Sun, 09/22/19
Leigh "Little Queenie" Harris, lead singer of Lil Queenie & the Percolators, passed away on September 21, 2019, at the age of 65, after a battle with cancer. She was in hospice care in North Carolina. For decades, Harris was revered by her peers and fans, alike, for her voc... Read more

In Memoriam: Art Neville

Mon, 07/22/19
Vocalist and keyboardist Art "Poppa Funk" Neville passed away on Monday, July 22, 2019 at the age of 81. Art was a founding member of funk legends The Meters and The Neville Brothers and was instrumental in shaping the New Orleans funk sound.  Born December 17, 1937 at Cha... Read more

In Memoriam: Jeff Duperon

Tue, 06/25/19
Former WWOZ show host Jeff Duperon has passed away at the age of 66. Jeff began volunteering with WWOZ in 1985. He eventually worked his way into subbing on jazz shows and then become a host on the Friday afternoon Jazz From The Park show.  Jeff was always been interested... Read more

In Memoriam: Kichea S. Burt

Tue, 06/25/19
WWOZ is mourning the loss of Kichea S. Burt, a New Orleans photographer who contributed to WWOZ for years. Her work for us at the station, Jazz Fest, Piano Night, Crescent City Blues & BBQ Fest, Mardi Gras, masking and parading traditions, and other various sites and events... Read more

Photos: Dr. John Memorial Second Line

Sun, 06/23/19
Photos from the second line for Dr. John, from the Orpheum Theater (following the conclusion of his memorial celebration) as captured by Ryan Hodgson-Rigsbee on June 22, 2019. Read more

In Memoriam: Dave Bartholomew

Sun, 06/23/19
Famed New Orleans producer, composer, arranger, and musician Dave Bartholomew has passed away on June 23, 2019 at the age of 100. Bartholomew is best known for his string of hits with Fats Domino, Smiley Lewis, Earl King, Shirley & Lee, James “Sugar Boy” Crawford, Robert Pa... Read more

Video: Dr. John Memorial Second Line

Sat, 06/22/19
Today's second line for Dr. John, from the Orpheum Theater (following the conclusion of his memorial celebration) to where he was laid to rest at St. Louis Cemetery. Watch below and thank you to all who tuned in to celebrate his life from near and far today. Read more

In Memoriam: Lil Buck Sinegal

Mon, 06/10/19
We are sad to report that guitarist and bandleader Paul "Lil Buck" Sinegal, "Master of the Stratocaster," has passed at the age of 75. For decades, he was a major player in Louisiana R&B, Blues, and Zydeco. He may be best known for playing with Clifton Chenier and Buckwheat... Read more

In Memoriam: Spencer Bohren

Sun, 06/09/19
It is with heavy hearts we share that Spencer Bohren has passed away after a strong battle with prostate cancer.  Called a “modern day troubadour,” his experiences shaped his music, which always showcased his great love for America’s wealth of traditional folk, blues, gosp... Read more

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