Tipitina’s Gave Professor Longhair a Home

Professor Longhair is part of Tipitina’s identity before anyone reaches the stage. The New Orleans club takes its name from his song “Tipitina,” a connection built into the venue from its opening on January 14, 1977.

Local music enthusiasts established the room, and Longhair performed there until his death in 1980. The club’s own history places him at the centre of its beginnings, alongside the piano style that brought together rhumba rhythms, boogie-woogie, blues and New Orleans R&B.

The relationship ran deeper than a memorable booking. Fans created a place where a musician they valued could keep playing, then named it for his music. Every mention of the room still carries that connection, linking its continuing concert life to the artist known as Fess.

Explore Tipitina's on CouchLot.

Sources: tipitinas.com.