Grammy-winning ensemble Hot 8 Brass Band proudly announces the release of their new single "Big Tuba", available today. This marks the band's first new music since 2019 and serves as a heartfelt tribute to their late co-founder and sousaphone player, Bennie Pete.
The single's chorus resonates with emotion: “We love you big tuba, and we miss you big tuba, won’t forget you big tuba.” Through "Big Tuba," the band channels the undiluted energy of New Orleans' Second Line parades, celebrating Bennie's legacy and their shared love for the city's rich musical heritage.
“On September 6, 2021, we, the Hot 8 Brass Band, lost our beloved bandleader, Bennie Pete. He was more than just our leader; he was a constant galvanizing force within our own family of fellow musicians and beyond. Bennie was a rock in our lives. Yes, he was a leader, a teacher, and a mentor. More than that, Bennie was an inspiration to our band and to many other musicians, and the entire musical and cultural community. He helped each and every one of us, from our horn players to the folks dancing in the second lines and to the entire New Orleans community, during the most difficult and darkest times. Bennie helped all of us endure, to heal by encouraging us to continue to play our music despite any adversities.”
In conjunction with the single's release, Hot 8 Brass Band announces their upcoming "Big Tuba Tour," kicking off this month on the US West Coast and extending to the UK and Ireland in March 2025. This tour follows their previous sold-out tours—"Bossman Tour" (2023), "Mardi Gras" (2020), and "Take Cover" (2019)—which featured memorable performances at venues like London's Roundhouse and the Brighton Dome.
Tour Tickets Available Here: https://linktr.ee/hot8brassbanddates
Drawing from New Orleans' traditional jazz heritage, Hot 8 Brass Band is renowned for blending elements of funk, hip-hop, rap, and local "bounce" music into their sound. The band earned a Grammy win at the 64th Annual Grammy Awards in 2022 for their feature on Jon Batiste’s Album of The Year, following their own nomination for Best Regional Roots Album in 2013 for "The Life & Times Of...".
Over the years, Hot 8 Brass Band has transcended genres and trends, collaborating with artists like Jon Batiste, The Blind Boys of Alabama, Basement Jaxx, and Alice Russell. They've provided live support for legends such as Mos Def, Lauryn Hill, and Mary J. Blige. The band has also garnered significant support from global tastemakers, including BBC 6 Music DJ Craig Charles.
Their dynamic performances have graced prestigious stages, including a live session at Maida Vale for Lauren Laverne (BBC 6 Music) and a festive appearance on Jools Holland's annual Hootenanny on BBC Two to welcome 2019. In 2023, they performed with Jon Batiste at the Gates Foundation Goalkeepers Festival and captivated audiences in South America at Festival Petronio Álvarez, as well as in Australia at both the Perth International and Melbourne Jazz Festivals.
As they honor Bennie Pete's enduring influence, Hot 8 Brass Band invites fans worldwide to join them in celebrating the release of "Big Tuba" and the forthcoming tour.
