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 Marsalis | Art Neville | Dave Bartholomew | Dr. John

Fats Domino | Pete Fountain | Allen Toussaint

In Memoriam: Lawrence Ketchens II

Fri, 01/31/25

WWOZ is saddened to share that Dr. Lawrence Ketchens II passed away early this morning. He was a beloved husband to Doreen Ketchens, as well as a devoted father, friend, and musician. Lawrence was most recognized as a member of Doreen's Jazz, playing tuba, valve trombone, d... Read more

In Memoriam: "Brown Sugar" Belle Moore

Fri, 01/24/25

WWOZ is saddened to share that former show host Belle "Brown Sugar" Moore died on January 22, 2025. Brown Sugar was one of the biggest personalities to ever grace the airwaves in New Orleans, and served as a DJ on WWOZ from the late 1980s until 2004. She also led our member... Read more

Video: John "Prince" Gilbert's Funeral

Sat, 01/04/25

Dozens of brass players, Baby Dolls, and Mardi Gras Indians came out to honor John "Prince" Gilbert at his funeral on December 30, 2024. At the time of his passing on December 14, Gilbert played saxophone for Treme Brass Band. He was also an original member of Rebirth Brass... Read more

In Memoriam: George French

Fri, 08/30/24

We are very sad to share the news that legendary New Orleans singer, bassist, bandleader, and all-around musician George French has passed at the age of 81. Our thoughts and best wishes go out to his family, his friends, and everyone who knew him. We would like to thank hi... Read more

In Memoriam: Luther Kent

Fri, 08/16/24

Musician Luther Kent died on Friday, August 16, 2024, at the age of 76. "Big" Luther Kent’s soulful voice and versatile repertoire – ranging from gospel to swing to traditional jazz – made him a New Orleans household name. He performed around the world, and the Louisiana Mu... Read more

In Memoriam: David Freedman

Tue, 06/11/24

David Freedman, who served as General Manager of New Orleans radio station WWOZ from 1992 to 2016, has passed away at the age of 80. David was instrumental in the station’s growth and evolution over the years. During his quarter-century with the station, WWOZ transformed fr... Read more

Thank you, Mary Cornelius

Fri, 06/07/24

WWOZ is deeply grateful for the generous bequest left by Guardian of the Groove Mary Cornelius, Ph.D., who passed away in December following a long illness. Mary spent her professional career finding ways to naturally control pests like termites without harming the planet.... Read more

In Memoriam: Nick Daniels III

Sat, 04/27/24

We are very sad to share the news that Nick Daniels, the longtime bass player director of Dumpstaphunk, passed on Thursday at the age of 68. His management confirmed the news to WWOZ. Nick Daniels III had a long career in New Orleans music, also performing with the Neville... Read more

In Memoriam: Clarence "Frogman" Henry

Mon, 04/08/24

New Orleans R&B singer Clarence "Frogman" Henry has died at the age of 87. His famous voice of a croaking "lonely frog" propelled him to fame with the 1956 hit single 'Ain't Got No Home.' His chameleon-like vocal abilities lent themselves well to the song which he could be ... Read more

In Memoriam: John Sinclair

Tue, 04/02/24

Legendary counterculture figure John Sinclair died today at the age of 82. In addition to his many accomplishments listed elsewhere, he was a major fixture at WWOZ for many years. From his arrival in New Orleans in 1992 to his departure for Amsterdam in 2003, he was activ... Read more

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
…
next
last

Sign up now

Listen Now

In Memoriam

Charles "Action" Jackson | George Wein

Ellis Marsalis | Art Neville | Dave Bartholomew | Dr. John

Fats Domino | Pete Fountain | Allen Toussaint