Last week brought the worst possible news. After a long fight with cancer, The Queen of Soul passed on and the city mourned. While Aretha wasn’t one of NOLA’s own, we couldn’t help but claim a piece of someone so soulful. And days later, we’re still finding ways to celebrate her.
If memorials aren’t your bag, though, there’s plenty going on this week for you to get into. Check out our best bets below.
Tribute to Aretha Franklin (8:00pm)
https://www.facebook.com/musicsynergy504/photos/gm.498645043931040/2348593311823917/?type=3&theater
As we mentioned, we’re still not done paying respects to one of the greatest to ever do it. Judy Hill of Ooh Poo Pah Doo fame leads a musical tribute featuring Mardi Gras Indians and a secondline from the Mid-City dive.
Where: DMac’s
When: Monday, August 20. 8 p.m.
Facebook
The Raquels
https://www.facebook.com/raquelsraquels/photos/gm.2353279511566133/643952892655082/?type=3&theater
These pop-rockers are heading to town to change your perception of what a boy band can be. It will certainly be the first time that anyone with that tag has played Sidney’s Saloon.
Where: Sidney’s Saloon
When: Thursday, August 23. 8 p.m.
Facebook
NOLA Downtown Music & Arts Festival
120 local artists will be showcased at this fest celebrating New Orleans musicians, an offshoot of the Cutting Edge conference. Whether you want jazz, country, swing or rock, CE has you covered with events that radiate outward toward downtown NOLA from the Old Mint. Check Siberia, Allways and others for a taste of what’s new and next.
Where: Various
When: August 24-25
More Info
LilWeezyana Fest
https://www.instagram.com/p/BmrQqYqHiBK/
Lil Wayne takes over Champions Square with a bit of help from north of the border and a little more from just down the road. Weezy is bringing along Baton Rouge upstart NBA Youngboy and Toronto’s own Tory Lanez for his latest hometown fest.
Where: Champions Square
When: Saturday, August 25.
Tickets
Brewsiana: Craft Beer & Music Festival
https://www.facebook.com/HOBNewOrleans/photos/gm.410084509377675/10154836381878167/?type=3&theater
The best of Louisiana music and beer are coming together for one excellent blowout at the House of Blues. Kumasi Afrobeat Orchestra, Vaerie Sassyfras and Stone Rabbits are among the acts handling music. You know some of the city’s burlesque stars will be on hand. And we haven’t even made it to the point of the whole thing: delicious local brews. Ticket prices vary but $45 gets you in the door and all you can drink access.
Where: House Of Blues
When: Saturday, August 25. 6:00 p.m.
Tickets
