NEW ORLEANS – The organization known since 2018 as the Tip-It Foundation is reclaiming its original name: Tipitina’s Foundation. The team shares that the change reaffirms the foundation’s commitment to supporting and promoting the future of New Orleans culture, music and heritage through the iconic Tipitina’s venue and brand.
Galactic acquired the storied music club in November 2018 and established the Tip-It Foundation to carry the foundation’s mission forward under new leadership. Eight years later, the organization is restoring the name most closely tied to that mission and to its enduring legacy.
Since taking the helm at Tipitina’s, Galactic has consistently framed its role as one of stewardship rather than simple ownership, with the band acting as caretakers charged with preserving Tipitina’s place in New Orleans music history for future generations.
“Tipitina’s is a living piece of New Orleans’ soul, and the band sees ourselves as stewards to protect that for future musicians and fans,” said Tipitina’s co-owner Robert Mercurio. “Coming back to the Tipitina’s Foundation name isn’t just about clarity, though that matters too — it’s about making sure people know exactly what we stand for: preserving this city’s music and carrying it forward.”
The renewed Tipitina’s Foundation is already in motion, with three major initiatives this fall:
- Sunday Youth Music Labs — The Tipitina’s Foundation is proud to once again offer free, hands-on master classes and jam sessions pairing young musicians with veteran professional artists on Tipitina’s live stage. Musician Billy Iuso is coordinating the monthly series, with a different well-established band hosting each session. The first event is Sunday, Oct. 25, from 1–3 p.m. at Tipitina’s (501 Napoleon Ave.), with members of Galactic hosting. Open to intermediate-level student musicians ages 7–21 (who should bring their own instrument to join the on-stage jam) as well as parents and the general public who want to listen in; attendance is free, and participants under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
- 50th-Anniversary Documentary — The Tipitina’s Foundation, in partnership with Song Stew Entertainment and the Gia Maione Prima Foundation, have announced production of Tip’s 50: A Musical Remembrance (working title), a feature-length documentary celebrating the 50th anniversary of legendary New Orleans music venue Tipitina’s in 2027.
The documentary will explore Tipitina’s profound impact on New Orleans music and culture, tracing its evolution from a neighborhood music hall into one of the world’s most respected live music venues. Through interviews with celebrated artists, musicians, staff, and devoted fans, the film will tell the story of the venue’s rich and, at times, turbulent history, highlighting its role in launching careers, preserving musical traditions, and bringing New Orleans music to a global audience. For more information and to stay updated on further release details, please visit www.Tips50Film.com.
Tipitina’s Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and advancing the musical and cultural heritage of New Orleans. Inspired by the legacy of the iconic Tipitina’s music venue, the foundation supports music education, youth development, artist mentorship, and cultural preservation initiatives that help ensure the rich traditions continue to thrive for future generations. Through programs, partnerships, and community engagement, Tipitina’s Foundation invests in the next generation of musicians while celebrating the culture that makes New Orleans unique.
For full details, other ways to show your support, or to donate directly to Tipitina’s Foundation, please visit www.TipitinasFoundation.com.
To view the full upcoming Tipitina’s show calendar or purchase tickets, please visit www.Tipitinas.com.