Big Joe Kennedy is a New Orleans pianist, bandleader, and performer known for concert experiences that are as musically rich as they are audience-engaging.

Rooted in the blues and jazz scenes of Milwaukee and Chicago, Kennedy earned a graduate degree in performance in Las Vegas before relocating to New Orleans in 2009. He served as pianist with the Dukes of Dixieland from 2013 to 2022, performing for audiences across the country, and remains a fixture at premier New Orleans venues including Mahogany Jazz Hall, The New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park, and The Carousel Lounge.

His concert program, A Taste of New Orleans, guides audiences through the traditions that shaped American music, from Traditional Jazz and Blues, to New Orleans R&B, with the authority and warmth of an artist who has spent decades inside this music.

Tickets are $20 in advance, $25 at the door general admission; $15 for students with ID. Children under 12 are free. Advance tickets are available here, or if the show is not sold out, you may purchase your tickets at the door before the show.

Doors open 30 minutes before show time. We accept cash or Venmo only at the door.

The Back Room is an all-ages, BYOB (for those 21+) space, dedicated to (mostly) acoustic music of all kinds. You are welcome to bring your own food and beverages. The venue is ADA accessible. If you need more information or have any questions, please call us: #510-381-1997.

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Please refrain from using your phone during performances, and if you use your camera or video, please disable the flash.

Although masks are no longer required, we strongly encourage their use to keep everyone safe in our intimate space.

Thank you for your support!

Contact the host of Big Joe Kennedy ~ A Taste of New Orleans