Bill Murray and Pedrito Martinez to Join The Tipping Point Benefit Concert Tonight

Bill Murray and Pedrito Martinez, photo by Ken Spielman

Tonight, The Tipping Point will roll in again. Tulane University’s 9th annual all-star benefit concert, staging at the historic Orpheum Theatre, will unite a dream team of New Orleans’ foremost performers and icons from the worlds of indie-rock, blues, jam, funk and more to support student scholarships.

On top of an already stacked lineup, the event’s organizers have announced a surprise appearance from Bill Murray with the Pedrito Martinez Group. The storied comedian’s connection with the legendary Afro-Cuban percussionist and bandleader dates back years, including a memorable collaboration on stage during 2021’s Love Rocks NYC benefit concert, but was solidified meaningfully with the release of Martinez’s 2025 studio album, Ilusión Óptica, for which Murray contributed to two tracks. Since then, Murray – also the consummate musical collaborator with his Blood Brothers – and Martinez have recreated their recording in a few televised sets and surprise sit-ins; The Tipping Point will be their first official shared bill.

Beyond the newcomers, The Tipping Point will feature performances from Ben Jaffe and the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Dawes’ Taylor and Griffin Goldsmith, The Revivalists frontman David Shaw, Dead & Company bassist Oteil Burbridge, Taj Mahal, Amy Helms and a duo of NOLA royalty, Irma Thomas and George Porter Jr. Grammy-winning guitarist, producer and funk firebrand Eric Krasno will return as musical director, leading the Tipping Point Band of esteemed peers Ivan Neville, Tony Hall, Raymond Weber and the Dumpstaphunk Horns.

“The Tipping Point thrives because of the extraordinary talent that has always been at the heart of New Orleans,” echoed Nicole Rechter, co-founder of RWE Partners. “Each year we’re honored to unite that homegrown brilliance with artists from across the country, creating a one-night celebration that supports the city and carries forward the legacy of its music.”

Over 85% of Tulane’s undergraduate students receive financial aid, whether through need-based aid awards or merit scholarships. Tickets to support the ambitious fundraising initiative through a night of unprecedented collaboration are available now at tippingpoint.tulane.edu.