BIG JOE KENNEDY

& New Orleans Party

Hailing from the heartland of the Midwest, Kennedy’s musical narrative resonates with the soulful echoes of blues and the improvisational cadence of jazz. His formative years were steeped in the vibrant musical tapestry of Milwaukee and Chicago, where by the age of 15, Kennedy found himself enraptured by the allure of blues jams, embracing the raw, emotive power of this musical genre. Fueling his artistic ambition, Kennedy pursued a jazz education that propelled him to the luminous city of Las Vegas, where he honed his craft and attained a graduate degree in performance.

In 2009, Kennedy embarked on a transformative journey to New Orleans, a city pulsating with the rhythms of jazz, blues, and cultural dynamism. It was here that Kennedy’s musical odyssey burgeoned, weaving him into the fabric of the city’s musical legacy. Joe was the pianist for the Dukes of Dixieland from 2013-2022. His dexterity at the keys and his intuitive understanding of musical dynamics led to collaborations with esteemed venues such as Mahogany Jazz Hall, The Jazz Playhouse, The Carousel Lounge, and the evocative Trixie Minx burlesque shows, solidifying his position as a revered musician within the vivacious New Orleans music scene.

Not merely content with his musical prowess, Kennedy’s aspirations extended to nurturing the next generation of musicians. Leveraging his multifaceted experience and a keen pedagogical insight, he embarked on a journey as an educator, imparting musical wisdom through workshops in New Orleans and campuses nationwide, aligning his teachings with the esteemed National Music Education Standards set by NAfME. A pinnacle in Kennedy’s illustrious career manifests in his literary opus, ‘Spread the Jam.’

click here to see Joe's page for Presenters

PHOTOS, HIGH RES AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST

Hey mister bartender, lock up all the doors, when the police come around tell 'em the joint is closed!

Let The Good Time Roll!

Music

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“BJK is one of NOLA’s better-kept secrets. He’s got a strong pianistic touch, immersed in the NOLA tradition of Dr. John and James Booker. In addition he’s a booming, bluesy singer who can turn sly quickly.” - Tom McDermott

— OffBeat Magazine, Tom McDermott

“...delivers a blue-to-the-root sound on this CD, which is infused with the spirit of his current home, New Orleans.” - Marty Gunther

— Chicago Blues Guide, Marty Gunther’s Red, Hot ’n Blues Music Reviews - February 2024

“In sum, Big Joe Kennedy’s “Amalgamation” is a triumph – an embodiment of musical brilliance, passion, and artistry. With each track, Kennedy and his ensemble weave a sonic tapestry that invites listeners on an enchanting voyage through the heart and soul of blues and jazz. It’s a testament to Big Joe Kennedy’s enduring musical legacy and his unwavering commitment to his craft, a gift to all who revel in the magic of timeless music.” - Jacob Aiden

— JamSphere; The Independent Music Magazine

“In ‘Spread the Jam,’ Joe Kennedy isn’t merely imparting knowledge; he’s conducting an orchestra of enlightenment, inviting readers to join the symphony of spontaneous creation. Through eloquent prose and expert guidance, Kennedy’s opus is a love letter to the transformative power of music—a masterpiece that not only educates but also inspires, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of musicians, both seasoned and aspiring.” - Rick Jamm

— JamSphere; The Independent Music Magazine

Contact & Clips

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