Local Riffs: The Collective Keeping New Orleans Music Culture Loud, Loyal, and Alive

NOLA EDM: For those meeting you for the first time — who is Local Riffs?
Local Riffs: Local Riffs is a collective built to support every piece of the New Orleans music scene: musicians, artists, venues, vendors, promoters, everyone. The name comes from my background in heavy metal: riffs are the character of a song. Add “local,” and it becomes a conversation rooted in the city’s musical identity. Our mission is simple: uplift all genres and highlight the diversity that makes New Orleans unmatched.

NOLA EDM: How did the collective originally come together?
Local Riffs: It started with just me, and my friend Dalton joined as we brainstormed ideas and launched the Local Riffs podcast. Over time, more members came and went — Levy, Dillion, James (Deadset504), PJ — all of whom helped shape the project. Life took people in different directions, but we’re all still close. Everyone contributed something that helped Local Riffs grow into what it is.

NOLA EDM: What sounds or genres define Local Riffs today?
Local Riffs: Metal is my foundation, but Local Riffs isn’t about my taste. It’s about supporting every kind of music. Rock, funk, fusion, EDM, hip-hop. If it’s created with passion, we want to help get the word out. Thousands of artists send us music weekly, and it shapes how we book shows and give recommendations. Deadset504 helps with bookings; we assist wherever we can to make the fit right.

NOLA EDM: New Orleans has a long, rich history in rave and electronic culture. Where does Local Riffs see itself in that story?
Local Riffs: We fit wherever the scene needs us. I’ve been around the music community since the early ’90s, always promoting and supporting. If Local Riffs existed back then, we’d have been documenting everything from State Palace to warehouse shows. Our goal is to be the people who were always there — listening, promoting, showing up.

NOLA EDM: What venues, promoters, or events helped influence your approach today?
Local Riffs: Dre’ from Belly Up Promotions, the DIY space at Fred Hampton Free Store, the kindness of Siberia, Santos, Southport Hall, Poor Boys, so many people and places. Plus Deadset504, NOLADNB, Eric from Chkndrum, you guys at NOLA EDM. Seeing how everything runs behind the scenes really inspired me. The support from everyone made me feel like I belonged.

NOLA EDM: If you could collaborate with a legendary NOLA rave figure, who would it be and why?
Local Riffs: Donnie and Dan from Disco Presents and the Freebass Society. Being around them as a kid made me want to support the scene. Working together would be a dream come true.