From NOLA.com — A new music museum in the River District, which backers have pitched as New Orleans' answer to Cleveland's Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, will start construction next summer after the project was allocated millions of dollars of state funds in the latest legislative session that ended last month, the developer said Wednesday.

Chris Beary, the social entrepreneur leading the project, said the $28.5 million in so-called Priority 5 funding approved last month by the Legislature is the key to keeping the project on track so it can raise the additional $80 million in bonds and $56.5 million in private funding to get fully funded.

USA Today — The vibrant soul of Louisiana emanates the state’s essence of freedom, unbridled self-expression, and creativity. Its unique energy opens the doors to indulgence, from classic dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and beignets to a vibrant musical scene, where the melodies of jazz, blues, and funk fill the French Quarter’s streets and every inch of every bayou, honoring Louisiana’s rich music history and diverse influences.  

St. Charles Avenue Magazine — Like all major cities, New Orleans hosts a sizable unhoused population; neighbors who by misfortune or circumstance have found themselves in dire need of compassion and charity. Organizations like Grace at the Green Light are on the front lines of fighting for the unhoused, guiding them on a pathway to stability and self-sufficiency.

Country Roads Magazine — Jazz, sometimes referred to as “America’s classical music,” was born right in New Orleans. Blues, by most accounts, sprung up nearby—and from it sprouted Baton Rouge’s particular brand of “swamp blues”. Further Southwest, Louisiana French music, zydeco, and swamp pop emerged; all indigenous to Louisiana, too. Even Shreveport has a too-often neglected strain of country, gospel, and big band music history. Louisiana’s cultural capital is largely derived from the wide breadth of music born from its swamps, prairies, and city centers. So, why don’t we have a museum dedicated to the many stories of Louisiana’s music?

INSIDE NEW ORLEANS — In a world where individuals increasingly seek ways to make a positive impact, Southern Gentleman Chris Beary’s journey into social philanthropy is an inspiring testament to the power of faith, music, and an unwavering commitment to helping others.

THE ADVOCATE - Louisiana, as every music fan knows, is at the heart of American music. So how come it doesn't have a museum to reflect that?

Enter the Louisiana Music and Heritage Experience museum. The brainchild of a group of heavy-hitting industry professionals, the facility is planned to be a $160 million, 120,000-square-foot interactive museum, completely dedicated to all aspects of Louisiana music.

NEWORLEANSMUSICIANS.COM - Chris Beary is a social entrepreneur who has contributed consistently to the New Orleans community and the preservation of Louisiana music history over the last three decades. He is the founder of several non-profit organizations in the city, and serves in managerial or ownership capacities of many other businesses across a variety of sectors. After practicing law for 25 years, he shifted his focus to community building and social endeavors. I have been hearing about one project by the name of the Funky Uncle for quite some time now, and it was a pleasure to give a few listens to this interview.

NEWORLEANSMUSICIANS.COM - A lifelong resident of New Orleans, Chris Beary began his foray into local music as a kid riding his bike to Jimmy's Music Club for the all ages shows. He has since become a CPA, an attorney, and a philanthropist. He has founded 6 non-profits and is currently managing 5 of them including Grace at the Green Light, The Fat Bankers Social Aid & Pleasure Club, The Funky Uncle Live, and Northshore Radio. Join us as we discuss his life leading to this point, the impact The Funky Uncle Live has had on local music, and the much anticipated Louisiana Music & Heritage Experience, a project for which he is now spearheading. 

Mixtape Hope Podcast: Chris Beary’s life reflects the values that you hope for in any true leader! His humble service to so many in our community is a testament to his integrity, commitment and faith. 

Listen as we hear how HIS vision to help foster community awareness and support for local musicians  through The Funky Uncle unlocked the human spirit even when we found ourselves quarantined.