Biography
Louie Ludwig is a New Orleans-based singer-songwriter known for his eclectic and adventurous approach to American roots music. Active on the NOLA scene for years, Ludwig has built a reputation as a musical bon vivant and self-described 'unreconstructed hippie,' with a style that blends folk, rock, and experimental elements. His work often features storytelling lyrics and a willingness to explore diverse sonic textures, resulting in music that is both grounded in tradition and unafraid to take risks.[3][4]
Ludwig's career has included collaborations with a variety of musicians, most notably as the frontman of Louie Ludwig with The Moss Pickers, whose album 'Elevation 13' showcases his genre-blurring tendencies. His 2017 release 'I Got Nothin To Say' further highlights his ability to assemble talented friends and musicians to create an 'electric variety of sounds,' reflecting the vibrant and collaborative spirit of the New Orleans music community.[3][4]
While Ludwig's popularity remains largely regional, his contributions to the local scene have made him a respected figure among peers and fans. His music, marked by both wit and introspection, continues to resonate with listeners who appreciate authenticity and creative freedom.
Fun Facts
- Louie Ludwig is described as a 'musical bon vivant and unreconstructed hippie,' reflecting his free-spirited approach to both life and music.[3]
- He is known for assembling a rotating cast of friends and musicians for his recordings, resulting in a unique sound for each project.[4]
- Ludwig's music often features storytelling and humor, drawing from the rich narrative tradition of New Orleans songwriters.
- He has produced music videos and collaborated with other local artists, such as Clark Vreeland, further cementing his role in the NOLA creative community.[8]
Musical Connections
Key Collaborators
- The Moss Pickers - Band members and recording collaborators (Elevation 13 (2015)) [2015]
- Danny Kane - Co-performer and recording partner (The Only One on Facebook (2018)) [2018]
- Clark Vreeland - Collaborator and co-writer (Stories in My Blood (2012)) [2012]
Discography
Albums
| Title | Release Date | Type |
|---|---|---|
| I Got Nothin' to Say | 2016-10-25 | Album |
| Elevation 13 | 2015-04-21 | Album |
| These Are the Ways of My People | 2014-07-26 | Album |
| Mixed Messages | 2013-03-11 | Album |
| Nichevo | 2011-05-01 | Album |
| Gangsta Folk | 2010-01-01 | Album |
| Dark Matters | 2009-04-04 | Album |
| Private Islands | 2008-01-01 | Album |
| 8 Track/Genre | 2003-01-01 | Album |
Top Tracks
- Thank God and Huey Long (Dark Matters)
- (Why Do) Crows (Always Seem to Come Out On Cloudy Days) (Elevation 13)
- Company Town (feat. Gina Forsyth & Brent Meancon) (Elevation 13)
- Death and the Devil (Elevation 13)
- Highway 61 Memories (feat. Theresa Andersson, Brent Melancon & Bart Ramsey) (Elevation 13)
- Nobody (feat. Dayna Kurtz) (Elevation 13)
- The Hills That I Love (Elevation 13)
- Snake (Elevation 13)
- Once Upon a Mountain (Elevation 13)
- Old Tennis Shoes (Elevation 13)
External Links
References
Heard on WWOZ
louie ludwig has been played 4 times on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.
| Date | Time | Title | Show | Spotify |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Feb 15, 2026 | 14:51 | The Things You Done on a Mardi Gras Dayfrom The Things You Done on a Mardi Gras Day - Single | Homespun Americanaw/ Ol Man River | |
| Nov 23, 2025 | 14:16 | If You Ever Lose Jesusfrom I Got Nothin' to Say | Homespun Americanaw/ Ol Man River | |
| Nov 14, 2025 | 20:46 | trouble gonna find you | Music of Mass Distractionw/ Black Mold | |
| Oct 31, 2025 | 13:31 | down the devil's highway | New Orleans Music Showw/ Black Mold or Bill DeTurk |