It’s hard to believe that it’s been a quarter of a century, but time flies when you’re having fun. The club, which debuted on Dec. 8, 1988 in a small, L-shaped room in Fat City has evolved into one of the city’s premier live music venues, presenting a mix of local and national musical acts as well as comedy shows, charity events, and private functions of all shapes and sizes.
Sadly, I never made it the original location, but I have spent many a night at its current home in a 1,200-capacity Warehouse District space. Most recently I enjoyed a rare afternoon concert in the spacious club.
Howie Kaplan, the club longtime owner had this to say: “In a city like New Orleans, where the musical traditions are so rich, to be a major part of the scene for the last 25 years is an incredible honor. But without the fans that support these talented musicians, we wouldn’t be able to keep it going.”
Befitting such an auspicious occasion, the Howlin’ Wolf is celebrating the whole month of December. The anniversary climaxes on New Year’s Eve with a performance by Dumpstaphunk and the Hot 8 Brass Band.
