New Orleans Jam Band Galactic Buys Hometown Club Tipitina’s

Melissa Stewart – Galactic Tipitina’s

Galactic has announced the purchase of renowned New Orleans nightclub Tipitina’s Uptown, transferring ownership of the venue and its business to a homegrown band that cut its teeth on the stage.

An announcement of the sale says the two-story yellow building on the corner of Tchoupitoulas Street and Napoleon Avenue will continue hosting regular concerts from local as well as global talent. 

“We received multiple attractive offers for Tipitina’s,” said previous owner Roland von Kurnatowski. “It was really important to us to ensure that this club, the icon that is Tipitina’s, end up in the right hands. We purchased the club in 1997 and have nurtured it ever since. We’re confident that Galactic is the right fit – that they will cherish Tipitina’s and take it to the next level while protecting all that makes Tips such an authentic American cultural venue.”

Galactic will celebrate the new chapter in Tipitina’s history with a show on New Year’s Eve.

“Our goal is to preserve, promote, and protect the future of New Orleans music, culture and heritage via the Tipitina’s venue and brand,” Galactic drummer Stanton Moore said.

“We’re so incredibly honored to be part of the team tasked to be the current caretakers of such a historic venue,” the band’s Ben Ellman added.  “My connection with the club started way before I was lucky enough to take the stage. My first job in New Orleans was at Tipitina’s as a cook in the (now defunct) kitchen. The importance of respecting what Tips means for musicians and the city of New Orleans is not lost on us. We’re excited for the future of the club and look forward to all the amazing music and good times ahead!”

The purchase of Tipitina’s does not include the Tipitina’s Foundation, which was created by Mary and Roland von Kurnatowski to support Louisiana and New Orleans’ music community and preserve the state’s unique musical cultures by promoting childhood music education, the professional development of adult musicians, and the increased profile and viability of Louisiana music as a cultural, educational, and economic resource. 

Tipitina’s Uptown’s upcoming shows include two nights of Anders Osbourne as well as shows with Donna The Buffalow, Car Seat Headrest and many others.

Recent boxoffice reports from the 800-capacity club include sold-out shows from Galactic in April and February ($36,800 gross and $41,450 gross, respectively).