New Orleans “Jam-balaya” to Rock Both Political Conventions

Friends of New Orleans (FONO), a private, nonprofit, nonpartisan organization established in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, has organized two New Orleans All Star Jam-balaya events, one scheduled for Sunday, August 24 at the Fillmore in Denver, the site of the Democratic National Convention, and one for Monday, September 1 at First Avenue in Minneapolis, the host to the Republican National Convention. FONO advocates for coastal restoration and help in drawing attention to the plight of the coastal wetlands

“FONO will continue to bring much-needed awareness of the ongoing efforts to rebuild this unique region, and more importantly, to honor the extraordinary work of the local organizations who are restoring their homes and communities in new and innovative ways, says FONO director Emily Byram in a press release. “The nation could learn a lot from them about ‘what works’ after a disaster. Their efforts must be supported for the long term.”

Participants include the Voice of the Wetlands All- Stars-Tab Benoit, George Porter, Jr. , Cyril Neville, Waylon Thibodeaux, Johnny Sansone, Anders Osborne and Johnny Vidacovich-along with Irma Thomas, Marva Wright and Marcia Ball. The horn section will include Donald Harrison, Jr. , Kirk Joseph, Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews, Big Sam and James Andrews. Also on the bill will be the Soul Rebels, the Wild Tchoupitoulas, and songwriters Lauren Barrett and Mary McBride. Meters members Zigaboo Modeliste, George Porter, Jr. , and Leo Nocentelli(pictured) will reunite in Denver, where they’ll be joined by Allen Toussaint , Terence Blanchard, Henry Butler, Walter “Wolfman” Washington, Randy Newman and more.

Individual tickets and sponsorships are still available, and the events will be broadcast in New Orleans on WWOZ 90.7 FM and streamed live at WWOZ.org. In Denver, the August 24 event will be aired on Jazz 89, KUVO 89.3 FM. For information contact FONO at (202) 842.1707.

Originally Published August 22, 2008