The Ponderosa Stomp Foundation

The Ponderosa Stomp Foundation (PSF) is a 501(c) (3), not-for-profit educational organization whose mission is celebrating the legacy, revitalizing the careers, and preserving the history of American music & musicians. We work to ensure that the unsung heroes of American music are given their due: celebrated, included, and remembered, but most of all, heard – during their lifetimes. We provide both a voice and a stage to overlooked sidemen, session musicians and other influential pioneers whose contributions have shaped American culture for over 50 years. Our programming includes an annual music festival in New Orleans and shows at Lincoln Center, education initiatives and musical performances in schools and museums, an ongoing oral history project and an annual music history conference.

The Ponderosa Stomp Festival

Our signature program, the Ponderosa Stomp Festival, began as an annual blowout show put on by the members of the Mystic Knights of the Mau Mau, who made it their mission to rediscover and triumphantly return to the stage hundreds of the architects of American music. Over the years, it has grown and generated respect and developed a devoted and impassioned following among American music aficionados, fans, musicologists and contemporary music critics worldwide. The Festival has expanded to include a Music History Conference, Clandestine Celluloid Film Series, Hip Drop DJ Party, and record show, in addition to the two nights of legendary music performances at the Ponderosa Stomp Concert.

The Ponderosa Stomp Concert

The Ponderosa Stomp Concert, part of the Ponderosa Stomp Festival and named after the Lazy Lester song, has been described as a “complete narrative of the roots of American music.” This two-night annual concert, begun in 2001, has featured hundreds of music’s unsung heroes, providing rare performances to adoring fans and new audiences. Thanks to the Stomp, in partnership with the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, these artists have been able to step into the spotlight, some for the first time in their lives. The Stomp has seen musicians who thought they were forgotten re-launch dormant careers and rediscover their own importance to legions of fans.

New Orleans Heritage

The Ponderosa Stomp was founded in New Orleans, Louisiana, a place whose overwhelming musical heritage and influence remains a focal point of the festival.

How You Can Help

There are a variety of ways to support the unsung heroes of rock ‘n’ roll and help us continue to expand the Ponderosa Stomp Foundation’s educational and preservation-based efforts. You can help ensure the invaluable contribution to cultural history made by these artists lives on. Visit our donate page to find out how you can help.