Today, the Ponderosa Stomp hits ten years old. Who can believe that this festival of the roots of rock, blues, soul and R&B with plenty of other genres throw in has reached the decade mark?
I remember the house parties that Stomp founder Dr. Ike used to throw in his backyard that were the inspiration for the annual event. Even back then he was mixing up artists and creating unique musical collaborations. One of my favorite mornings (the shindigs often began at 11 AM) was when he put Kermit Ruffins back together with his former mates in the Rebirth Brass Band for the first time after Ruffins left the group to begin his solo career.
You better get a move on because like those house parties of lore, it all begins at 11 AM with the Music History Conference at the Renaissance Arts Hotel in the Warehouse District. Alison Fensterstock will lead a panel discussing the legendary cross-dressing performer Bobby Marchan (pictured).
The music begins at 11 PM tonight at D.B.A. for The Hip-Drop. This event features DJs spinning vinyl. Dancing is clearly encouraged.
The Stomp itself begins Friday night at the Howlin’ Wolf. Expect to witness Lazy Lester, Carol Fran and other artists in a tribute to the legendary Louisiana label, Excello Records. There will also be a tribute to the iconic New Orleans’ record producer Cosimo Matassa with Allen Toussaint, Robert “Barefootin’” Parker and Clarence “Frogman” Henry. Unfortunately, the octogenarian trumpeter and producer Dave Bartholomew has been forced to bow out due to heath issues.
The Stomp continues Saturday night at the Howlin’ Wolf with a Stax Records showcase featuring William Bell, Eddie Floyd, Otis Clay and the Bo-Keys among other musical attractions.
Of course, anyone who is familiar with the Ponderosa Stomp knows that there is a lot more in store. Go to their site for all the details on other acts performing at the Howlin’ Wolf as well as the Clandestine Celluloid Film Series and more information about panel discussions at the Music History Conference.
