Howie Kaplan: The Man Keeping NOLA's Nights Alive

From the gritty heart of the Warehouse District to the soul of New Orleans’ after-hours rhythms, Howie Kaplan has become one of the city’s most influential cultural architects.

From Hospitality to the Helm of New Orleans Nightlife

A lifelong hospitality pro, Kaplan began his career managing music venues before taking the reins at The Howlin’ Wolf + The Den in 2000, turning it into a musical mecca of blues, funk, and rock. He also manages the Grammy-winning Rebirth Brass Band, a group that blends marching-band heritage with funk, soul, and jazz—cementing his role in both preserving and propelling NOLA’s musical legacy.

The First "Night Mayor"

In 2022, Kaplan was appointed the city’s inaugural Director of Nighttime Economy—a bold, new role focused on advocating for venues, performers, and hospitality workers. Under his leadership, the office rolled out key initiatives: musician loading zones, a standardized minimum pay rate for city events, Narcan kits and training in bars, conflict mediation services, and a comprehensive New Orleans music census. He stepped down in 2024 to refocus on his venues, bands, and even a new Bayou Bagel Company spot.

A Pillar in the Community

When the pandemic and Hurricane Ida struck, Kaplan didn’t stand idle. He launched Meals for Musicians, partnering with the Musicians’ Clinic to distribute 60,000+ meals and provide vital assistance—like healthcare access and unemployment support—to culture bearers in crisis. His efforts earned him the SBA Phoenix Award for leadership during disaster recovery.

Why Kaplan Matters

• He transformed The Howlin’ Wolf into a legendary venue that's both a concert destination and a community anchor.

• He managed and elevated one of NOLA’s most storied brass bands during a critical era.

• He championed nightlife infrastructure that supports the city’s beating cultural pulse.

• He showed up for music workers in need during times of upheaval.

Studios, venues, and stagehands alike respect that Kaplan isn’t just in the business of entertainment—he’s in the business of sustaining a city’s soul.