Experience Live Jazz at Kermit’s 9th Ward Juke Joint

Located in New Orleans’ historic 9th Ward, Kermit’s 9th Ward Juke Joint has rapidly become a premier destination for live jazz music.

TL;DR

• Kermit’s 9th Ward Juke Joint offers an authentic and immersive jazz experience in New Orleans.
• The venue’s location in the historic 9th Ward connects it to the city’s jazz roots and cultural significance.
• Jazz trumpeter Kermit Ruffins played a crucial role in revitalizing the 9th Ward post-Hurricane Katrina through his music and community involvement.

Historical Significance of the 9th Ward in New Orleans

The 9th Ward has long been a cultural hub in New Orleans, with a rich history that has shaped the city’s music, art, and community. This area has been home to many influential jazz musicians, including Louis Armstrong, Fats Domino, and the Neville Brothers. The neighborhood’s vibrant street life, colorful Mardi Gras Indians, and tight-knit community contributed to the development of jazz and its various sub-genres. The 9th Ward’s resilience was tested in 2005 when Hurricane Katrina devastated the area. However, through the efforts of local musicians like Kermit Ruffins and community leaders, the 9th Ward underwent revitalization, with Kermit’s 9th Ward Juke Joint playing a significant role.

The Atmosphere and Design of Kermit’s Juke Joint

Step inside Kermit’s 9th Ward Juke Joint, and you’ll be transported to a world celebrating New Orleans’ jazz culture. The interior features vintage photographs, colorful murals, and memorabilia honoring the city’s musical legends. The intimate setting, with cozy tables and an inviting bar, fosters interaction between musicians and audience members.

The venue’s design evokes classic Southern juke joints that once provided spaces for African Americans to gather, socialize, and enjoy music during segregation. Kermit’s 9th Ward Juke Joint captures this spirit while adding a modern twist, making it a unique addition to New Orleans’ jazz scene.

Live Jazz Performances at Kermit’s

At the heart of Kermit’s 9th Ward Juke Joint is the live jazz music that fills the venue nightly. Kermit Ruffins frequently takes the stage, showcasing his virtuosic trumpet skills and infectious enthusiasm, often joined by a rotating cast of local jazz talents, ensuring unique and memorable performances.

The music spans a wide range of jazz styles, from traditional New Orleans brass band music to modern jazz fusion. The intimate setting allows for a close connection between musicians and audience, creating an electric and participatory atmosphere. Occasionally, renowned jazz artists from around the world make special appearances, adding to the venue’s growing reputation as a must-visit destination for jazz enthusiasts.

The Culinary Experience at Kermit’s

A visit to Kermit’s 9th Ward Juke Joint is incomplete without sampling the delectable culinary offerings. The menu features classic New Orleans dishes like gumbo, red beans and rice, and po’boys, all prepared with the same care as the music.

Kermit’s signature dish, the “Barbecue Swingers” platter, is a nod to his band’s name and features a mouth-watering assortment of barbecued meats and sides. The bar offers local beers, cocktails, and the ever-popular “Kermit’s Treme Punch,” a refreshing concoction named after the neighborhood where Kermit’s Mother-in-Law Lounge is located.

Community and Cultural Impact

Kermit Ruffins’ commitment to his community extends beyond his music. Through Kermit’s 9th Ward Juke Joint, he has created a space that celebrates jazz and serves as a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. The venue regularly hosts community events, fundraisers for local schools and organizations, and provides a platform for emerging artists.

Kermit’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. “Kermit is more than a musician; he’s a true ambassador for New Orleans culture,” says local resident and frequent patron Tanya Williams. “His music and venue have brought joy and positivity to the 9th Ward, and we’re grateful to have him as part of our community.”

Visiting Kermit’s 9th Ward Juke Joint

If you’re planning a visit to Kermit’s 9th Ward Juke Joint, note that the venue is open Wednesday through Sunday, with live music starting at 8 pm. Seating is limited, so arrive early or make a reservation.

The juke joint is located at 5119 St. Claude Ave, a short drive or taxi ride from the French Quarter. Street parking is available, but be mindful of residential parking restrictions. Nearby attractions include the House of Dance & Feathers, a museum dedicated to Mardi Gras Indian culture, and the historic St. Roch Market, a recently renovated food hall featuring local vendors.

Address: 5119 St. Claude Ave, New Orleans, LA 70117

Phone: (504) 509-7994

Hours: Wednesday – Sunday, 6 pm – 2 am (live music starts at 8 pm)

Kermit’s Place in New Orleans’ Jazz Scene

In a city known for its vibrant music scene, Kermit’s 9th Ward Juke Joint has quickly established itself as a standout venue. While other notable jazz clubs like Preservation Hall and Snug Harbor exist, Kermit’s offers a distinctly local and authentic experience.

“Kermit’s 9th Ward Juke Joint is more than a music venue; it’s a cultural institution,” says jazz historian and author Dr. Charles Watkins. “By creating a space celebrating the history and future of jazz in the 9th Ward, Kermit is ensuring this important part of New Orleans’ musical legacy will thrive for generations.”

As Kermit Ruffins continues to make his mark through music and community involvement, Kermit’s 9th Ward Juke Joint serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of New Orleans and its people. For an unforgettable live jazz experience in the heart of the city’s cultural landscape, a visit to Kermit’s is a must.