In Bogalusa, Louisiana, a baby boy named Henry was born on December 19, 1918. Henry would grow up to become Professor Longhair, one of music’s most prolific blues singers and pianists. Though he passed away in 1980, his adopted homestead of New Orleans will still celebrate his centennial with a special party at Tipitina’s.

Known as “Fess” for short, the “Bach of Rock” will be the honorary guest at his 100th birthday party on Wednesday, December 19. Tip’s will host the musical tribute, which will feature an all-star cast of musicians. Serving as Musical Director will be George Porter, Jr. while the following list of performers will be in attendance (in no particular order):

Ivan Neville
Cyril Neville
Jon Cleary
Marcia Ball
Zeke Fishhead
John “JoJo” Hermann
David Torkanowsky
Tom McDermott
Johnny Vidacovich
Deacon John
Kermit Ruffins
C.R. Gruver
Joe Krown
Herlin Riley
Alfred “Uganda” Roberts
John “Papa” Gros
Chris Adkins,
Tony DaGradi
Tom Worrell
Reggie Scanlan
Earl Gordon
June Yamagishi
Lance Ellis
Roger Lewis

The evening’s master of ceremonies will be Harry Shearer.

Tipitina’s is a no-brainer choice as venue for this prolific event; after all, it takes its name from “Tipitina.” Tickets for the special event will go on sale this Friday, November 9, at 11 a.m. CST and are available at the box office (501 Napoleon Ave.) or at www.tipitinas.com.