Father Ron and Friends, the acclaimed New Orleans-based folk/Americana band, proudly announce their receipt of the Global Music Award for the title track of their latest album, Forever The Seasons, released under Louisiana Red Hot Records. Building on their successful Buffa’s Sunday Residency, the band continues to resonate with audiences through their heartfelt music and unwavering commitment to community justice.
Retired Episcopal priest Father Ron Clingenpeel, beloved folk DJ on New Orleans' WWOZ, leads Father Ron and Friends with a mission to evangelize the healing power of folk music. Inspired by legends like Pete Seeger, Woody Guthrie, and Bob Dylan, the band features Robert Eustis on guitar, David Schwartz on keyboards, Barbara Smith-Davis on vocals, and Max Valentino on bass. Their latest album, Forever The Seasons, produced by Andre Bohren and recorded at renowned studios including Marigny in New Orleans, showcases collaborations with Louisiana greats Jack Craft on cello and Gina Forsyth on fiddle, alongside vocal talents Debbie Davis and Cole Williams.
Following their 2022 release, On My Way Home, the 2024 album Forever The Seasons includes the award-winning title ballad, the haunting refrain of “The Promise Land,” and the New Orleans classic “Saint James Infirmary.” Additional tracks such as “Roll River Roll,” “Don’t Let The Fire Die,” “Bayou Goula Ball,” “San Antonio Rain,” “Easy Moments,” “Another Night,” “Blues #42,” and the comedic original “Damned Roaches” have garnered acclaim in national Americana press.
Father Ron and Friends are not only celebrated for their music but also for their active role in promoting justice and community engagement. From leading “Don’t Let The Fire Die” at the MLK Day Service to organizing children’s singalongs for Little Box of Good News under the Episcopal Diocese of Louisiana, the band embodies the spirit of folk music as a force for positive change.
Upcoming Performances:
- January 20: MLK Day Service, St. Luke’s New Orleans, LA – Leading: “Don’t Let the Fire Die”
- January 26: Buffa’s Back Room Residency, New Orleans, LA
- February 21: Grill & Grocery, Hattiesburg, MS
- February 23: Buffa’s Backroom Residency, New Orleans, LA
- March 13: Seither’s, Harahan, LA
- March 15: La Divina, Baton Rouge, LA
- March 23: Buffa’s Backroom Residency, New Orleans, LA
- April 4: House Concert, Lebanon, TN
- April 9: Longue Vue Gardens, Metairie, LA
- April 30: DeSoto Street Porch Fest, New Orleans, LA
- May 8: Father Ron Solo, Kearney, NE
- May 9: Father Ron Solo, North Platte, NE
- May 11: Father Ron Solo, Valentine, NE
- May 15: Father Ron Solo, Omaha, NE
- May 16: Father Ron Solo, Lincoln, NE
- May 25: Buffa’s Backroom Residency, New Orleans, LA
Discover the rich tapestry of Father Ron and Friends’ music by exploring their latest album, Forever The Seasons, available on Apple Music and visit their official website for more information on tour dates and band updates.
About Father Ron and Friends: Originating from Nebraska and now a cornerstone of the New Orleans folk scene, Father Ron and Friends blend traditional American folk with contemporary influences to create music that honors the past while inspiring future generations. Through their performances and community initiatives, they strive to keep the spirit of folk music alive and relevant.
Contact: Father Ron and Friends
Email: info@fatherronandfriends.com
Website: FatherRonAndFriends.com
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