If you’re looking for something to do on your way to the Fairgrounds, stop by 12 Mile Limit for a musical brunch. Later on, see Dr. John, or head to the Marigny for some giant puppets. On this day in 1874, the White League formed to intimidate African-Americans from voting and oust Republicans from office. Now, more to do before, after, and during the Fest.

Hotel Modern gets another update as southern and contemporary cuisines converge at their new hotel restaurant, Tivoli & Lee.  

by Ryan Sparks

Whether it’s caught on a car stereo, an app on a smartphone, streamed through a computer, or bumping on the boombox in the corner of a barbershop, WWOZ is the soundtrack of choice for citizens citywide as well as aficionados around the world. The freeform station frequents 90.7 in airspace and handful of colorful rooms overlooking the French Market on your map, but without the support of listeners they’d be nowhere.

Carnival celebrations in New Orleans kept the local buzz about Sunday's Grammy awards in second place. But, don't worry, the music industry's big showcase brought a little bit of the Crescent City to the broadcast. Two of New Orleans' own took home golden record players. Later, Dr. John and the Preservation Hall Jazz Band joined the Black Keys on their award-winning "Lonely Boy."

Krewe du Vieux is coming early in 2013, but before they blow their load, they’re offering the public some civilized entertainment. Tonight at Howlin’ Wolf, the Krewe’s Shakedown Benefit is bringing Dr. John, George Porter Jr., Bonerama, and many more to the stage, giving crowds an all star lineup to support the New Orleans Musicians Clinic. We talked to Krewe du Vieux’s 2013 Queen and  NOMC’s executive director Bethany Bultman about health, wealth, and coming loudly.

Tonight, come early to the Krewe du Vieux Queen’s Shakedown! See performances from Dr. John, George Porter Jr., and more. Theatre people can head to the CAC, or check out the first day of MicroFest. On this day in 1990, Louis Armstrong was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Click through for some pre-weekend events.

The year in New Orleans music was full of Grammys, viral videos and unfortunate losses. It all adds up to a historically insular music scene on the verge of getting the national recognition it's always deserved. We look back at 2012 and look ahead to 2013:

The 2013 Grammy nominations were released in Nashville last night, but the music capital to South of Music City wasn't left out of the proceedings. A handful of Louisiana artists picked up nods, including Dr. John and a pair of Cajun-Zydeco stars.

Just one day shy of Turkey day, and there’s still plenty to do tonight in the Big Easy. Hear music at Tip’s, the Maple Leaf, and of course, on Frenchmen. Meschiya Lake and Tom McDermott are on Canal for their weekly gig. Happy Birthday to Dr. John! The legendary local turns 72 today. Now, for more hump day happenings.

New Orleanians are known more for music than for athletic prowess, but this weekend’s 5K combines both in the name of charity. If you’re looking for something to do with your Saturday evening, head to Tipitina’s by 4pm tomorrow to register for their Rhythm and Blues 5K Run, a fundraiser to restore Professor Longhair’s childhood home.