It’s another exciting week in New Orleans with no shortage of live music and cultural events to keep you entertained! Check out this week’s OffBeat Weekly Picks (3/21 – 3/27):

Join River Eckert for an evening of soulful piano melodies at the Maple Leaf Bar on Thursday, March 21 from 6-7:30 p.m. Fourteen-year-old River is a born-and-raised New Orleans native with a deep love for the city’s rich musical heritage. He’s the son of renowned guitarist and producer Jake Eckert. Influenced by legends like Professor Longhair, James Booker, Dr. John and Allen Toussaint, River brings a youthful energy and passion to the “Booker Piano Sessions.” Don’t miss this chance to experience the next generation of New Orleans piano talent. Tickets are $10 for ages 21 and up. Learn more or purchase your tickets here.

Immerse yourself in the soulful sounds of Grammy Award-winning New Orleans Nightcrawlers at the Rhythm & Roses Concert Series at The Historic BK House & Gardens on Thursday, March 21, from 6 to 9 p.m. This bristling brass band with a modern soul will captivate audiences in in beautifully manicured and charming Parterre Garden at the BK House on Ursulines at Chartres Street, . Tickets are available at $30 for non-members and $25 for BK members, with an exclusive multiple concert package option on the BK House website.

Also on Thursday, experience a delightful evening at Ogden After Hours, featuring the talented Joshua Starkman and friends Anna Moss and Charlie Gabriel at the Ogden Museum of Southern Art. Joshua Starkman, known for his dynamic guitar skills and as the founder of the “Have a Great Day!” social media phenomenon, brings his unique flair to the stage. A Florida native who has made New Orleans his home, Starkman’s collaborations with musicians from diverse backgrounds promise a captivating musical journey. Alongside live music, attendees can enjoy art activities for kids, a cash bar, food from Sira Tacos, and a special flash sale on Magnolia Ball Tickets. Learn more or purchase your tickets here.

Embark on an intergalactic adventure of funk and fantasy at Water Seed‘s immersive concert experience, Journey to Funkstar, taking place at The Hangar on Friday, March 22, at 8 p.m. Delve into a night of future funk-filled magic as Water Seed, the Billboard Top 20 charting indie band, presents an unforgettable evening with guest musicians such as Erica Falls, HaSizzle, Brass-A-Holics, Casmé, kr3wcial, Allie Baby and more. There will also be  special guest appearances by actors Dan White, Terence Rosemore and Stan Aughtry. Hosted by Angelique Roche of Marvel Cinematic Universe fame, this event promises a blend of cutting-edge technology, captivating visuals, and a vibrant atmosphere that will transport you to new realms of entertainment. Learn more or purchase your tickets here.

Don’t miss the captivating performances of Beaux Gris Gris and the Apocalypse alongside Karma & The Killjoys at Chickie Wah Wah on Saturday, March 23. Beaux Gris Gris & The Apocalypse, led by the talented Greta Valenti and Robin Davey, brings a unique blend of blues-rock Americana, country and soul that has garnered them international acclaim. With a stellar lineup of musicians from across the globe and a reputation for mind-blowing live performances, Beaux Gris Gris & The Apocalypse promises an unforgettable night of soulful music and electrifying energy. Join them on March 23rd for an experience that defies genre boundaries and celebrates the wonder of life through music. Learn more or purchase tickets here.

The 2024 Congo Square Rhythms Festival kicks off with a live concert by Big Chief Monk Boudreaux and the Golden Eagles on Friday, March 22, 2024, 8 p.m. at the George and Joyce Wein Jazz & Heritage Center. Tickets are priced at $10, and doors open at 7 p.m. with the concert starting promptly at 8 p.m. Seating is limited, so advance registration is recommended. All proceeds from the concert series support the efforts of the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation. The festival itself is free and takes place on Saturday and Sunday at Louis Armstrong Park. It pays homage to New Orleans traditions rooted in the African diaspora, with vibrant celebrations, local cuisine, African dance and drumming, live music, and an arts market, making it a must-attend event for all music and culture enthusiasts.  You can learn more about both events here.