JJF ACTIVITIES
Activities run all day. Starting times are variable.
Located at: JOHN LEE HOOKER LANE
Our greatest attraction will be with us for 2 days in 2019, Friday & Saturday
Led by professional rodeo cowboy Tim “WILD THANG” Lepard,Team Ghost Riders is a group of sheep dogs and monkeys, who team together to provide one of the most entertaining traveling acts you will ever see.
"The animals are like family and require 24/7 care to ensure their well-being. When I see the crowd smiling and hear the laughter, it makes all the hard work worthwhile.(Tim)"
×10:45 am
12:45 pm
3:45 pm
5:15 pm
JJF EVENTS
Where: Collective Seed & Supply Co.
Collective Seed & Supply Co.--Clarksdale's only independent garden center & general store.
https://www.facebook.com/collectiveseedandsupplyco/
×"19th Street Red" plays the Cat Head porch to kick off a day of music...
×Who: Randy '19th Street Red' Cohen
19th Street Red’s blues is not the “polite” blues. It is the low down, razor’s edge gutbucket blues that makes dancers want to sweat and shake their butts. This gritty style reminds you of the street music of Chicago’s Jew-town and the lowdown groove of Muddy Waters.
Where: Collective Seed & Supply Co.
Collective Seed & Supply Co.--Clarksdale's only independent garden center & general store.
https://www.facebook.com/collectiveseedandsupplyco/
×FREE! First of four shows... a must see! Pontotoc, Mississippi's own Tim Lepard and his team entertain all with... YES... Monkeys Riding Dogs Herding Sheep aka The Ghost Riders. Plan a field trip, bring a group and enjoy the show. Sponsored by Southern Bancorp. Co-sponsored by Westgate Drugs and Jane & Jim Wilbourn.
×Where: John Lee Hooker Lane
Mark Burnett bends steel... and your mind...
×
Mark Burnett is a world record holding strongman and motivational speaker, performing extensively in northeast Ohio, as well as taking his show on the road, from New Jersey to Alaska.
Like many other strongmen…..and a growing field of “Strongwomen,” Mark understands there is untapped potential in all of us, both physically and mentally, and he uses feats of strength as an introduction to show what’s possible in all of us.
Mark is not a career strongman. In fact, he’s lived most of his life in a “Clark Kent” manner, raising a family and working a regular guy career before getting into the strongman culture just 10 years ago.
Now, he entertains you with his feats of surprising physical strength while sharing his common sense tips for bettering yourself physically, mentally and spiritually.
Who: Sean 'Bad' Apple
Baptized in the fire water of Clarksdale, MS., Sean “Bad” Apple began his spiritual journey of learning the blues by seeking out the old blues musicians that were willing to share their years of knowledge. Sean is working hard to keep Hill Country Blues alive and well. People are always in for a good show and never leave disappointed when the Bad Apple is on the stage
FREE! Second of four shows... a must see! Pontotoc, Mississippi's own Tim Lepard and his team entertain all with... YES... Monkeys Riding Dogs Herding Sheep aka The Ghost Riders. Plan a field trip, bring a group and enjoy the show. Sponsored by Southern Bancorp. Co-sponsored by Westgate Drugs and Jane & Jim Wilbourn.
×Where: John Lee Hooker Lane
Don't dare miss the young bluesman who is totally on the way up—"Young Rell"!
×Who: Harrell 'Young Rell' Davenport
How does a 17-year-old kid raised in Vicksburg, Mississippi play his first gig in Chicago and wind up with 165,000 views and 4,000 shares of his performance on Facebook? Well, if you are Harrell ‘Young Rell’ Davenport, who started playing harmonica and guitar at seven years, the answer is easy: he is a rising star in the blues world.
A dexterous and inventive guitarist and a fat-toned harmonica phenom, Young Rell is already a commanding vocalist and a poetic and poignant songwriter. Whether he is accompanying himself on guitar while playing harmonica on a rack and singing, or alternating between guitar and harmonica with an ensemble, Young Rell sings his songs with sincerity and without a hint of affectation, working the stage with the poise and charisma of a veteran performer.
A prolific and engaging presence on social media, Young Rell has created a global community of fans and followers who have not only praised his talent but engaged enthusiastically with him on the subject of musicianship, musical instruments and past generations of famous and obscure blues inspirations.
As a child, Rell navigated personal struggles and trauma by immersing himself in music that was born in response to oppression and hardship. He found solace studying and expressing himself in the blues.
His community building and graceful social interaction have landed him relationships and experiences with the greatest blues artists alive today. He has been championed by Billy Branch, Kingfish Ingram, Bob Margolin, Bernard Allison and many others. He has already performed at the King Biscuit Blues Festival, both of Morgan Freeman’s Ground Zero Blues Clubs in Mississippi, Red’s Juke Joint in Clarksdale, and many more.
This blues singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist is fired up and bound for your venue…all you got to do is call!
“In my 46 years of teaching Blues in Schools, never have I encountered anyone as young as Harrell Davenport with such a laser focused drive and ability to play the Blues as it was played in the bygone golden era of the masters.”
– BILLY BRANCH
“I’m a proud blues mama when I see and hear young blues artists, like Young Rell. Sometimes this world seems so dark, then along comes this light that amazes us. Young Rell is that light.”
– DEITRA FARR
FREE public event! JJF's annual blues panel discussions return to Meraki with host Dr. Clay Motley (FGCU) and his 2024 panelists: 1PM PANEL features Terry "Harmonica" Bean, Little Willie Farmer and Reverend Peyton (Big Damn Band). 3PM PANEL features Eden Brent and two more ladies of the blues TBA.
×Where: Meraki Coffee Roasters
Thursday Open Mic is open to all ages, levels of talent and skill. We want everyone to come and share a piece of themselves and their love for blues. Til 5pm
Sunday breakfast with Jax Nasser 10 am to 12pm
Meraki Roasting Company - Freshly Roasted Artisan Coffee roasted in house supporting our youth entrepreneurship program. Come visit our roastery to try our current coffee profiles. Pastries made by local vendors. www.merakiroasting.com www.griotarts.com
www.merakiroasting.com www.griotarts.com
282 Sunflower Ave
Meraki Hours:
Monday-Sunday (every day!) 7am to 2 pm
http://www.griotarts.com/meraki
×"Deep Inside the Blues" Book Signing
Author/photographer Margo Cooper talks about and signs her amazing new book! (Pay for book at Cat Head counter first; then have her sign it.)
×Who: Margo Cooper (author/photographer)
Deep Inside the Blues: Photographs and Interviews
By Margo Cooper
Foreword by William R. Ferris
A collection of dazzling black-and-white photographs and in-depth interviews that illuminate the lives and times of three generations of blues musicians
This is a fantastic book by a blues journalist who has been a 'fly on the wall' during her Mississippi Delta (and Chicago) blues visits through the decades. Do not miss this book. - Roger Stolle, CAT HEAD (Clarksdale, MS)
DESCRIPTION: Deep Inside the Blues collects thirty-four of Margo Cooper’s interviews with blues artists and is illustrated with over 160 of her photographs, many published here for the first time. For thirty years, Cooper has been documenting the lives of blues musicians, their families and homes, neighborhoods, festivals, and gigs. Her photographic work combines iconic late-career images of many legendary figures including Bo Diddley, Honeyboy Edwards, B. B. King, Pinetop Perkins, and Hubert Sumlin with youthful shots of Cedric Burnside, Shemekia Copeland, and Sharde Thomas, themselves now in their thirties and forties. During this time, the Burnside and Turner families and other Mississippi artists such as T-Model Ford, James “Super Chikan” Johnson, and L. C. Ulmer entered the national and international spotlight, ensuring the powerful connection between authentic Delta, Hill Country, and Piney Woods blues musicians and their audience continues.
In 1993, Cooper began photographing in the clubs around New England, then in Chicago, and before long in Mississippi and Helena, Arkansas. On her very first trips to Mississippi in 1997 and 1998, Cooper had the good fortune to photograph Sam Carr, Frank Frost, Bobby Rush, and Otha Turner, among others. “The blues come out of the field,” Ulmer told Cooper. Seeing those fields, as well as the old juke joints, country churches, and people’s homes, inspired her. She began recording interviews with the musicians, sometimes over a period of years, listening and asking questions as their narratives unfolded. Many of the key blues players of the period have already passed, making their stories and Cooper’s photographs of them all the more poignant and valuable.
EARLY REVIEWS:
"PRAISE FOR THE AUTHOR: Cooper's images remind us that the blues is as much attitude or way of life as art form. . . . She sees herself as an advocate for the music, a celebrant, but not an apologist. Clearly, her photographs are a labor of love." - Mark Feeney, Boston Globe
"Deep Inside the Blues avoids the culture-wide tendency to romanticize and elegize its subjects as ‘the last surviving bluesmen’ or view them solely as conduits for the pain of racial oppression. Instead, Cooper’s interviews offer a nuanced celebration of the musicians she has come to know—indomitable individuals, storytellers and healers both, who have etched themselves into the world’s imagination." - Adam Gussow, author of Whose Blues? Facing Up to Race and the Future of the Music
"Deep Inside the Blues is truly historic. It is a stunning tribute to the musicians and to Cooper for her vision and persistence in gathering their photographs and oral histories." - William R. Ferris, author of I AM A MAN: Photographs of the Civil Rights Movement, 1960–1970
"PRAISE FOR THE AUTHOR: The urgent need to preserve a cornerstone of American culture led folklorists like John Lomax to travel the country documenting early blues recordings and writers like Amiri Baraka to publish Blues People: Negro Music in White America. Although Margo Cooper did not know it when she began more than twenty years ago, she has followed that tradition and produced a documentary project that archives the oral and visual histories of blues musicians, their families, and communities in northern Mississippi and the Delta." - fayemi shakur, New York Times Lens blog
Hardcover : 384 pages, 168 b&w photographs
Mark Burnett bends steel... and your mind...
×
Mark Burnett is a world record holding strongman and motivational speaker, performing extensively in northeast Ohio, as well as taking his show on the road, from New Jersey to Alaska.
Like many other strongmen…..and a growing field of “Strongwomen,” Mark understands there is untapped potential in all of us, both physically and mentally, and he uses feats of strength as an introduction to show what’s possible in all of us.
Mark is not a career strongman. In fact, he’s lived most of his life in a “Clark Kent” manner, raising a family and working a regular guy career before getting into the strongman culture just 10 years ago.
Now, he entertains you with his feats of surprising physical strength while sharing his common sense tips for bettering yourself physically, mentally and spiritually.
"Cadillac" turns 97 today! Guitarist Preston Rumbaugh backs him up.
×Who: Cadillac John Nolden 97th Birthday Show!!
Celebrate the 97th birthday of oldest still-performing bluesman in the world—“Cadillac” John Nolden! He'll be backed by lifelong guitarist/bassist Preston Rumbaugh, who lives here in Clarksdale. "Cadillac" was born in Sunflower, Mississippi, on April 12, 1927. He is a legendary blues harmonica player and singer who currently lives in Cleveland, Mississippi. He is also a regular of Clarksdale's Juke Joint Festival and Sunflower River Blues & Gospel Festival.
FREE public event! Second of two annual JJF blues panel discussions at Meraki with host Dr. Clay Motley (FGCU) and his 2024 panelists Eden Brent, Beverly Davis and one more lady of the blues TBA.
×Where: Meraki Coffee Roasters
Thursday Open Mic is open to all ages, levels of talent and skill. We want everyone to come and share a piece of themselves and their love for blues. Til 5pm
Sunday breakfast with Jax Nasser 10 am to 12pm
Meraki Roasting Company - Freshly Roasted Artisan Coffee roasted in house supporting our youth entrepreneurship program. Come visit our roastery to try our current coffee profiles. Pastries made by local vendors. www.merakiroasting.com www.griotarts.com
www.merakiroasting.com www.griotarts.com
282 Sunflower Ave
Meraki Hours:
Monday-Sunday (every day!) 7am to 2 pm
http://www.griotarts.com/meraki
×FREE! Third of four shows... a must see! Pontotoc, Mississippi's own Tim Lepard and his team entertain all with... YES... Monkeys Riding Dogs Herding Sheep aka The Ghost Riders. Plan a field trip, bring a group and enjoy the show. Sponsored by Southern Bancorp. Co-sponsored by Westgate Drugs and Jane & Jim Wilbourn.
×Where: John Lee Hooker Lane
81 years of blues wisdom in one real-deal guitar-slinging blues woman (also Paul "Wine" Jones' sister).
×Who: Miss Australia 'Honeybee' Jones
“Honeybee,” as she likes to be called, lives at Indianola, in the Delta, but her guitar style more resembles the Hill Country style of blues than that of the Delta. She is furthermore a traditionalist, and has avoided the influence of most modern blues; her repertoire consists of old, traditional lyrics like “Baby, Please Don’t Go” or “Catfish Blues.” Her appearance should be welcomed at a time when most blues is of the Southern soul variety, and where female blues artists are few and far between outside of Southern soul.
Special FREE JJF "live" blues event!
Harrell "Young Rell" Davenport returns to the New Roxy stage for a real-deal blues set prior to Charlie Musselwhite and Kirk Fletcher hitting the stage at 6:15pm!
×Where: New Roxy (main stage)
The New Roxy is a former movie theater located in the historic New World District of downtown Clarksdale. After deteriorating over a 30-year vacancy, this iconic building is being resurrected as a vibrant music, art, and theater venue for you to discover and enjoy.
Step inside to experience the regrowth—original sloping concrete floor, masonry stage, distressed brick walls, space for dancing, drinking, dining—all beneath a gorgeous view of the night sky through the open rooftop.
We are open throughout the year for events such as festivals, theater performances, film screenings and private parties. Two separate areas await your arrival. The front bar features a small, intimate stage (now fully covered and weather-proof) while the open-air main stage provides ample room for larger productions.
Who: Harrell 'Young Rell' Davenport
How does a 17-year-old kid raised in Vicksburg, Mississippi play his first gig in Chicago and wind up with 165,000 views and 4,000 shares of his performance on Facebook? Well, if you are Harrell ‘Young Rell’ Davenport, who started playing harmonica and guitar at seven years, the answer is easy: he is a rising star in the blues world.
A dexterous and inventive guitarist and a fat-toned harmonica phenom, Young Rell is already a commanding vocalist and a poetic and poignant songwriter. Whether he is accompanying himself on guitar while playing harmonica on a rack and singing, or alternating between guitar and harmonica with an ensemble, Young Rell sings his songs with sincerity and without a hint of affectation, working the stage with the poise and charisma of a veteran performer.
A prolific and engaging presence on social media, Young Rell has created a global community of fans and followers who have not only praised his talent but engaged enthusiastically with him on the subject of musicianship, musical instruments and past generations of famous and obscure blues inspirations.
As a child, Rell navigated personal struggles and trauma by immersing himself in music that was born in response to oppression and hardship. He found solace studying and expressing himself in the blues.
His community building and graceful social interaction have landed him relationships and experiences with the greatest blues artists alive today. He has been championed by Billy Branch, Kingfish Ingram, Bob Margolin, Bernard Allison and many others. He has already performed at the King Biscuit Blues Festival, both of Morgan Freeman’s Ground Zero Blues Clubs in Mississippi, Red’s Juke Joint in Clarksdale, and many more.
This blues singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist is fired up and bound for your venue…all you got to do is call!
“In my 46 years of teaching Blues in Schools, never have I encountered anyone as young as Harrell Davenport with such a laser focused drive and ability to play the Blues as it was played in the bygone golden era of the masters.”
– BILLY BRANCH
“I’m a proud blues mama when I see and hear young blues artists, like Young Rell. Sometimes this world seems so dark, then along comes this light that amazes us. Young Rell is that light.”
– DEITRA FARR
Join us as we celebrate all that is good in the Mississippi Delta! We will begin at the Dutch Oven (300 block of Issaquena), journey through downtown Clarksdale. We hope you will plan to be apart of this new adventure of promoting what is GOOD in Clarksdale. Get a float going, play a musical instrument, dress a part and celebrate spring and our festival! Our 2024 Juke Joint Bride and Groom TBA will lead our parade followed by the Juke Joint King and Queen (TBA), and the Juke Joint Babies TBA Look forward to celebrating ya'll!
×FREE! Fourth of four shows... a must see! Pontotoc, Mississippi's own Tim Lepard and his team entertain all with... YES... Monkeys Riding Dogs Herding Sheep aka The Ghost Riders. Plan a field trip, bring a group and enjoy the show. Sponsored by Southern Bancorp. Co-sponsored by Westgate Drugs and Jane & Jim Wilbourn. Can't make it today? Tim and his team will entertain y'all again on Saturday, April 13th at 10:45, 12:45, 3:45 and 5pm!
×Where: John Lee Hooker Lane
Special FREE JJF "live" blues event!
Charlie. Kirk. Roxy. "Must-see" blues shows don't come much more "must see" than this! Visit Clarksdale and Juke Joint Festival present for... FREE!
×Where: New Roxy (main stage)
The New Roxy is a former movie theater located in the historic New World District of downtown Clarksdale. After deteriorating over a 30-year vacancy, this iconic building is being resurrected as a vibrant music, art, and theater venue for you to discover and enjoy.
Step inside to experience the regrowth—original sloping concrete floor, masonry stage, distressed brick walls, space for dancing, drinking, dining—all beneath a gorgeous view of the night sky through the open rooftop.
We are open throughout the year for events such as festivals, theater performances, film screenings and private parties. Two separate areas await your arrival. The front bar features a small, intimate stage (now fully covered and weather-proof) while the open-air main stage provides ample room for larger productions.
Who: Charlie Musselwhite & Kirk Fletcher Duo
In addition to his Blues Music Award-nominated solo work, blues guitarist/singer Kirk Fletcher is a backing musician of choice for favorites from Charlie Musselwhite to The Fabulous Thunderbirds, from Joe Bonamassa to Cyndi Lauper... and beyond. "There’s a sweetness and authenticity to his approach that screams class." - Guitar World magazine.
Charlie Musselwhite? Well, his career is the stuff of legends! The Grammy winner has been everywhere and played with everybody, but his favorite place to be? His adopted hometown of Clarksdale, Mississippi. He and his wife Henri are fixtures on the streets and in the restaurants of Clarksdale. Juke Joint Festival thanks Charlie for suggesting this duo. It's going to be an extra special experience for all of us.
(Cover may apply.)
9:30 am
Angel "Cash" Ocasio, Jr., a prominent figure in Macon's music scene, leads Cash's Juke Joint, a powerhouse band delivering soul-stirring music. Rooted in Blues, Sacred Steel, Soul, Funk, and Rock, their groovy fusion captivates audiences. Hailing from Macon, GA, the band, comprised of seasoned musicians, boasts a rich history playing diverse venues. Cash's Juke Joint has shared stages with icons like Patti LaBelle, Jill Scott and The Legendary Wailers, showcasing their raw and uncut sound. Known for getting straight to the nitty-gritty, experiencing the dynamic vibes of Cash's Juke Joint live is a must for music enthusiasts.
https://youtu.be/AdO7W1o0z90?si=kr3BZ5pJAabbLqsu
×Where: Meraki Coffee Roasters
Thursday Open Mic is open to all ages, levels of talent and skill. We want everyone to come and share a piece of themselves and their love for blues. Til 5pm
Sunday breakfast with Jax Nasser 10 am to 12pm
Meraki Roasting Company - Freshly Roasted Artisan Coffee roasted in house supporting our youth entrepreneurship program. Come visit our roastery to try our current coffee profiles. Pastries made by local vendors. www.merakiroasting.com www.griotarts.com
www.merakiroasting.com www.griotarts.com
282 Sunflower Ave
Meraki Hours:
Monday-Sunday (every day!) 7am to 2 pm
http://www.griotarts.com/meraki
×9:30 am
Angel "Cash" Ocasio, Jr., a prominent figure in Macon's music scene, leads Cash's Juke Joint, a powerhouse band delivering soul-stirring music. Rooted in Blues, Sacred Steel, Soul, Funk, and Rock, their groovy fusion captivates audiences. Hailing from Macon, GA, the band, comprised of seasoned musicians, boasts a rich history playing diverse venues. Cash's Juke Joint has shared stages with icons like Patti LaBelle, Jill Scott and The Legendary Wailers, showcasing their raw and uncut sound. Known for getting straight to the nitty-gritty, experiencing the dynamic vibes of Cash's Juke Joint live is a must for music enthusiasts.
https://youtu.be/AdO7W1o0z90?si=kr3BZ5pJAabbLqsu
×Where: Meraki Coffee Roasters
Thursday Open Mic is open to all ages, levels of talent and skill. We want everyone to come and share a piece of themselves and their love for blues. Til 5pm
Sunday breakfast with Jax Nasser 10 am to 12pm
Meraki Roasting Company - Freshly Roasted Artisan Coffee roasted in house supporting our youth entrepreneurship program. Come visit our roastery to try our current coffee profiles. Pastries made by local vendors. www.merakiroasting.com www.griotarts.com
www.merakiroasting.com www.griotarts.com
282 Sunflower Ave
Meraki Hours:
Monday-Sunday (every day!) 7am to 2 pm
http://www.griotarts.com/meraki
×11:00 am
Where: Travelers Hotel (lobby bar)
Brand-new hotel in an old renovate brick building in the center of historic downtown Clarksdale, Mississippi. Cool lobby bar lounge.
https://www.stayattravelers.com
×11:00 am
Joe Austin & The Tallahatchies
Born and raised in Pontotoc, Mississippi, just a stone’s throw from the Mississippi Delta, Joe Austin was immersed in American music at an early age. His childhood was filled with blues, gospel harmonies in church and “front porch pickin’” amongst gatherings of family and friends. His grandfather was a finger style guitar player on his off time from being one of the first crop duster pilots in the state.
https://www.joeaustinandthetallahatchies.com
×11:00 am
Joseph R. McLerran, better known as Little Joe McLerran, (born July 16, 1983) is an American blues singer and guitarist. In 2009, representing the Blues Society of Tulsa, McLerran won the International Blues Challenge Solo/Duo competition hosted by the Blues Foundation and held each year in Memphis.
https://music.youtube.com/channel/UCY-sFB604PLUDVjK8VtZz1g
×Where: The Den Again
A retro-cool Clarksdale classic! The Den joins Juke Joint Festival's nighttime venue roster for 2022!
12:00 pm
Robin Lane is the heart of an act that continually conjures up the memory of Mr. Tater.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rtGiID3rT_A
×Where: Collective Seed & Supply Co.
Collective Seed & Supply Co.--Clarksdale's only independent garden center & general store.
https://www.facebook.com/collectiveseedandsupplyco/
×12:00 pm
Keyboardist/singer/songwriter LaLa Craig got her start in her hometown of Oceanside, CA, performing with her family's country band at the tender age of 4. Taking a turn at dabbling for decades in every style imaginable, LaLa found her true calling when the blues spoke to her at the age of 33.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eq7UhlEdO8s
×Where: Ground Zero Blues Club
PLEASE NOTE: Saturday night (April 23, 2022), IF Juke Joint Festival Sat-night Wristbands are NOT sold-out, then limited quantities will be available for purchase only at the 243 Delta Ave JJF HQ building (only till 8:30pm) AND Ground Zero Blues Club, Hambone Gallery and Hopson Commissary (if/while supplies last). Entry to any/all 20+ JJF Sat-night venues requires a festival wristband. No exceptions. Details on Wristband webpage or in program booklet.
GROUND ZERO BLUES CLUB: Clarksdale's largest real-deal blues music venue offers "live" Mississippi blues music every Wednesday to Saturday... plus special events during festival time periods. Co-owned by actor Morgan Freeman, Bill Luckett, Howard Stovall and Eric Meier, Ground Zero Blues Club will celebrate its 5th anniversary in May 2006. Besides the plethora of incredible local blues acts who have performed there, musicians from Mavis Staples and Alvin Youngblood Hart to Jerry Lee Lewis and Bobby Rush have been filmed playing there.
http://www.groundzerobluesclub.com
×1:00 pm
Reverend Robert is a master of prewar blues. He has delved deep into the styles of Charley Patton, Robert Johnson and other delta blues giants. In the past two decades he has become accomplished at many other early twentieth century styles including ragtime and early jazz, Hawaiian, African and Caribbean. He combines these styles seamlessly in a combination of infectious rhythm and an authentic acoustic sound.
In 2004 he took first place at the National Slide Guitar Festival in North Carolina The Reverend is known for his true conviction, and powerful delivery. You can hear it on his latest CD "Shake That Thing."
Where: Hambone Art & Music
PLEASE NOTE: Saturday night (April 15, 2023), IF Juke Joint Festival Sat-night Wristbands are NOT sold-out, then limited quantities will be available for purchase only at the 243 Delta Ave JJF HQ building (only till 8:30pm) AND Ground Zero Blues Club, Hambone Gallery and Hopson Commissary (if/while supplies last). Entry to any/all 20+ JJF Sat-night venues requires a festival wristband. No exceptions. Details on Wristband webpage or in program booklet.
HAMBONE: "Hambone Art Gallery" and bar, Artwork by Stan Street , is located at 111 East Second St.,between Madidi's and Theo's Rock and Roll Museum . Formerly Conerly shoes [ co- owned by Charlie Conerly, quarterback of the New York Giants and Old Miss.] Before that, the building was the old Delta theatre. Owners Stan and Dixie Street moved to Clarksdale from So. Florida. Both
blues musicians, they were drawn here by the city's historical roots. Stan is a poster designer for many roots and blues festivals throughout the U.S. and Canada. The Artwork is mostly musical, but the Gallery also has landscapes from the Delta, Abstracts, and ecclectic Found Object
pieces.
1:00 pm
Joe Batterton and Mark Edwards perform traditional acoustic country Blues reminiscent to the music played throughout the Arkansas and Mississippi Delta before the electric blues. They have performed together for nearly 20 years and bring great old time vocal harmonies combined with slide guitar and an older finger style guitar rarely heard today.
http://www.battertonandedwards.com
×Where: Ground Zero Blues Club
PLEASE NOTE: Saturday night (April 23, 2022), IF Juke Joint Festival Sat-night Wristbands are NOT sold-out, then limited quantities will be available for purchase only at the 243 Delta Ave JJF HQ building (only till 8:30pm) AND Ground Zero Blues Club, Hambone Gallery and Hopson Commissary (if/while supplies last). Entry to any/all 20+ JJF Sat-night venues requires a festival wristband. No exceptions. Details on Wristband webpage or in program booklet.
GROUND ZERO BLUES CLUB: Clarksdale's largest real-deal blues music venue offers "live" Mississippi blues music every Wednesday to Saturday... plus special events during festival time periods. Co-owned by actor Morgan Freeman, Bill Luckett, Howard Stovall and Eric Meier, Ground Zero Blues Club will celebrate its 5th anniversary in May 2006. Besides the plethora of incredible local blues acts who have performed there, musicians from Mavis Staples and Alvin Youngblood Hart to Jerry Lee Lewis and Bobby Rush have been filmed playing there.
http://www.groundzerobluesclub.com
×1:00 pm
Hohner artist, Charlie Barath, is a true student of traditional harmonica styles. His appreciation of and respect for those traditions is evident in his harmonica playing as well as his singing, and it shines brightly on the bandstand. Equally adept at both teaching and performing, Charlie makes the most of his 40+ years of experience with the harmonica
https://charliebarath.bandcamp.com/
×Where: Deak Harp Harmonica Shop
1:00 pm
Some folks play the blues while some write about it and present it as their own because it is. Ray Cashman is the latter. This guy is the real deal. His songs are on the radio around the world and his European show date list alone would be the envy of anybody looking to expand internationally. Cashman has had his music featured in NBC sitcom " Council Of Dads" and the movie The Good House. He tours Europe and the USA annually and has released 9 full, studio albums with the latest being 2023 Delta Sound, recorded in Clarksdale MS
http://www.raycashman.net https://raycashman.net/photo-gallery
×Where: New Roxy
The New Roxy is a former movie theater located in the historic New World District of downtown Clarksdale. After deteriorating over a 30-year vacancy, this iconic building is being resurrected as a vibrant music, art, and theater venue for you to discover and enjoy.
Step inside to experience the regrowth—original sloping concrete floor, masonry stage, distressed brick walls, space for dancing, drinking, dining—all beneath a gorgeous view of the night sky through the open rooftop.
We are open throughout the year for events such as festivals, theater performances, film screenings and private parties. Two separate areas await your arrival. The front bar features a small, intimate stage (now fully covered and weather-proof) while the open-air main stage provides ample room for larger productions.
1:00 pm
Where: The Den Again
A retro-cool Clarksdale classic! The Den joins Juke Joint Festival's nighttime venue roster for 2022!
2:00 pm
I'm a musician and producer, born and raised in São Paulo, SP. I started doing music when I fell in love with electric guitar and blues music, which end up being responsible for introducing me to other amazing styles that enlightened my musicality.
https://www.deezer.com/us/artist/185264
×Where: Ground Zero Blues Club
PLEASE NOTE: Saturday night (April 23, 2022), IF Juke Joint Festival Sat-night Wristbands are NOT sold-out, then limited quantities will be available for purchase only at the 243 Delta Ave JJF HQ building (only till 8:30pm) AND Ground Zero Blues Club, Hambone Gallery and Hopson Commissary (if/while supplies last). Entry to any/all 20+ JJF Sat-night venues requires a festival wristband. No exceptions. Details on Wristband webpage or in program booklet.
GROUND ZERO BLUES CLUB: Clarksdale's largest real-deal blues music venue offers "live" Mississippi blues music every Wednesday to Saturday... plus special events during festival time periods. Co-owned by actor Morgan Freeman, Bill Luckett, Howard Stovall and Eric Meier, Ground Zero Blues Club will celebrate its 5th anniversary in May 2006. Besides the plethora of incredible local blues acts who have performed there, musicians from Mavis Staples and Alvin Youngblood Hart to Jerry Lee Lewis and Bobby Rush have been filmed playing there.
http://www.groundzerobluesclub.com
×2:00 pm
Angel "Cash" Ocasio, Jr., a prominent figure in Macon's music scene, leads Cash's Juke Joint, a powerhouse band delivering soul-stirring music. Rooted in Blues, Sacred Steel, Soul, Funk, and Rock, their groovy fusion captivates audiences. Hailing from Macon, GA, the band, comprised of seasoned musicians, boasts a rich history playing diverse venues. Cash's Juke Joint has shared stages with icons like Patti LaBelle, Jill Scott and The Legendary Wailers, showcasing their raw and uncut sound. Known for getting straight to the nitty-gritty, experiencing the dynamic vibes of Cash's Juke Joint live is a must for music enthusiasts.
https://youtu.be/AdO7W1o0z90?si=kr3BZ5pJAabbLqsu
×Where: New Roxy
The New Roxy is a former movie theater located in the historic New World District of downtown Clarksdale. After deteriorating over a 30-year vacancy, this iconic building is being resurrected as a vibrant music, art, and theater venue for you to discover and enjoy.
Step inside to experience the regrowth—original sloping concrete floor, masonry stage, distressed brick walls, space for dancing, drinking, dining—all beneath a gorgeous view of the night sky through the open rooftop.
We are open throughout the year for events such as festivals, theater performances, film screenings and private parties. Two separate areas await your arrival. The front bar features a small, intimate stage (now fully covered and weather-proof) while the open-air main stage provides ample room for larger productions.
3:00 pm
There are timeless artists, and then there are timely artists. Very rarely has there been an opportunity for the two qualities to juxtapose- then along comes CRUZ The Dame. Blending old soul with a new sound, her Vintage Music captures the spirit of the classics that made our mamas and daddies snap their fingers, marrying it with her instantly captivating style.
Fusing the gospel and doo-wop music she grew up on with the sensuality of R&B, the innovation of jazz, and the precision of Pop, CRUZ The Dame is bringing originality back to the future. Fearlessly sexy and bodily creative, CRUZ views the world through a different lens. A self-described “hybrid” born to interracial parents, with the blood of Spanish, German, Irish, African American, Native American, and Jewish ancestry running through her veins gives CRUZ a kaleidoscope of many different perspectives which are the foundation of her refreshing writing style and creative expression.
With her first public performance at just 4 years old, CRUZ began her natural calling to the performing arts. CRUZ is a multi-hyphenate whose talents include singing, dancing, writing, and acting. On stage, CRUZ brings her music to life through passionate movement further enhanced by her warm outgoing verbal prowess. Whether it’s her “Pin-Up” style of fashion, inspired by the classic pin-up artwork of the 1940s, or her ability to deliver her brand of the traditional torch song with a style-based jolt from the modern era, CRUZ differentiates herself from her peers.
Where: Femme Riché
3:00 pm
Keyboardist/singer/songwriter LaLa Craig got her start in her hometown of Oceanside, CA, performing with her family's country band at the tender age of 4. Taking a turn at dabbling for decades in every style imaginable, LaLa found her true calling when the blues spoke to her at the age of 33.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eq7UhlEdO8s
×Where: The Den Again
A retro-cool Clarksdale classic! The Den joins Juke Joint Festival's nighttime venue roster for 2022!
3:00 pm
Delta by the Beach plays original rocking, song-oriented juke joint music. The band has been described as 'Chuck Berry crossed with Lightnin' Hopkins with just a dash of Black Sabbath'.
http://www.deltabythebeach.com
×Where: Ground Zero Blues Club
PLEASE NOTE: Saturday night (April 23, 2022), IF Juke Joint Festival Sat-night Wristbands are NOT sold-out, then limited quantities will be available for purchase only at the 243 Delta Ave JJF HQ building (only till 8:30pm) AND Ground Zero Blues Club, Hambone Gallery and Hopson Commissary (if/while supplies last). Entry to any/all 20+ JJF Sat-night venues requires a festival wristband. No exceptions. Details on Wristband webpage or in program booklet.
GROUND ZERO BLUES CLUB: Clarksdale's largest real-deal blues music venue offers "live" Mississippi blues music every Wednesday to Saturday... plus special events during festival time periods. Co-owned by actor Morgan Freeman, Bill Luckett, Howard Stovall and Eric Meier, Ground Zero Blues Club will celebrate its 5th anniversary in May 2006. Besides the plethora of incredible local blues acts who have performed there, musicians from Mavis Staples and Alvin Youngblood Hart to Jerry Lee Lewis and Bobby Rush have been filmed playing there.
http://www.groundzerobluesclub.com
×3:00 pm
Popular Mississippi bluesman plays traditional music — new and old.
https://www.facebook.com/MississippiMarshall/
×Where: Hambone Art & Music
PLEASE NOTE: Saturday night (April 15, 2023), IF Juke Joint Festival Sat-night Wristbands are NOT sold-out, then limited quantities will be available for purchase only at the 243 Delta Ave JJF HQ building (only till 8:30pm) AND Ground Zero Blues Club, Hambone Gallery and Hopson Commissary (if/while supplies last). Entry to any/all 20+ JJF Sat-night venues requires a festival wristband. No exceptions. Details on Wristband webpage or in program booklet.
HAMBONE: "Hambone Art Gallery" and bar, Artwork by Stan Street , is located at 111 East Second St.,between Madidi's and Theo's Rock and Roll Museum . Formerly Conerly shoes [ co- owned by Charlie Conerly, quarterback of the New York Giants and Old Miss.] Before that, the building was the old Delta theatre. Owners Stan and Dixie Street moved to Clarksdale from So. Florida. Both
blues musicians, they were drawn here by the city's historical roots. Stan is a poster designer for many roots and blues festivals throughout the U.S. and Canada. The Artwork is mostly musical, but the Gallery also has landscapes from the Delta, Abstracts, and ecclectic Found Object
pieces.
3:00 pm
Baptized in the fire water of Clarksdale, MS., Sean “Bad” Apple began his spiritual journey of learning the blues by seeking out the old blues musicians that were willing to share their years of knowledge. Sean is working hard to keep Hill Country Blues alive and well. People are always in for a good show and never leave disappointed when the Bad Apple is on the stage
Where: Bad Apple Blues Club
Formerly "Club 2000" juke joint, the Bad Apple Blues Club is the brand-new blues venue run by Sean "Bad" Apple! Grand opening during Juke Joint Festival week, y'all!
http://thefrontlinemusic.com/tag/club-2000/
×3:30 pm
The fingerstyle guitar maven, songwriter and powerfully emotional performer blends echoes of traditional music from Mississippi, Mali, and India into compelling songs that speak from—and to—the heart.
Ryan Lee Crosby’s latest album "Winter Hill Blues" captures the timeless power of music from Mississippi, refracted by influences of Indian slide guitar and Crosby’s own unique approach to the style. The songs resonate with a sound and spirit forged from his life as a traveling musician and his studies with traditional masters Jimmy "Duck" Holmes and RL Boyce. Produced by Fat Possum Records’ Bruce Watson at his Delta-Sonic Sound studio in Memphis.
https://ryanleecrosby.com/press-kit (contains audio, bio, video, please scroll down for photos)
×Where: New Roxy
The New Roxy is a former movie theater located in the historic New World District of downtown Clarksdale. After deteriorating over a 30-year vacancy, this iconic building is being resurrected as a vibrant music, art, and theater venue for you to discover and enjoy.
Step inside to experience the regrowth—original sloping concrete floor, masonry stage, distressed brick walls, space for dancing, drinking, dining—all beneath a gorgeous view of the night sky through the open rooftop.
We are open throughout the year for events such as festivals, theater performances, film screenings and private parties. Two separate areas await your arrival. The front bar features a small, intimate stage (now fully covered and weather-proof) while the open-air main stage provides ample room for larger productions.
4:00 pm
Where: Ground Zero Blues Club
PLEASE NOTE: Saturday night (April 23, 2022), IF Juke Joint Festival Sat-night Wristbands are NOT sold-out, then limited quantities will be available for purchase only at the 243 Delta Ave JJF HQ building (only till 8:30pm) AND Ground Zero Blues Club, Hambone Gallery and Hopson Commissary (if/while supplies last). Entry to any/all 20+ JJF Sat-night venues requires a festival wristband. No exceptions. Details on Wristband webpage or in program booklet.
GROUND ZERO BLUES CLUB: Clarksdale's largest real-deal blues music venue offers "live" Mississippi blues music every Wednesday to Saturday... plus special events during festival time periods. Co-owned by actor Morgan Freeman, Bill Luckett, Howard Stovall and Eric Meier, Ground Zero Blues Club will celebrate its 5th anniversary in May 2006. Besides the plethora of incredible local blues acts who have performed there, musicians from Mavis Staples and Alvin Youngblood Hart to Jerry Lee Lewis and Bobby Rush have been filmed playing there.
http://www.groundzerobluesclub.com
×4:00 pm
Cotton Patch Soul Blues n Hill Country Dedicated to RL B
Cotton Patch Soul Blues n Hill Country
Dedicated to RL Burnside n Jr Kimbrough
Bluesberry Cafe 235 Yazoo
4pm Live Music Carlos Elliot n Bobby Gentilo
5:30pm Live Music:Robert Kimbrough Sr
7pm Live Music:Garry Burnside
8:30pm Live Music:Dwayne Burnside
10pm Live Music:Lightnin Malcolm
The Hill Country Blues style (or Cotton Patch Soul Blues, as the Kimbrough family calls their style of blues) is a unique form of music that originates in the Hill Country of Northeast Mississippi, and is especially prevalent in Marshall County, where well-known blues musicians like R. L. Burnside and Junior Kimbrough lived. The county is still home to prominent musicians, including Duwayne Burnside and Robert Kimbrough, as well as Joe Ayers, who was an original member of Junior Kimbrough’s Soul Blues Boys band.
Where: Bluesberry Cafe
Blues Berry Cafe 1st place winners 2007 Jubliee BBQ Cook Off
Past Performers: Malted Milk Band, Lala , Incode, Super Chikan and The Fighting Cocks, Heavy Suga, Razor Blade, Shake it Like A Caveman, The Blind Ducks, Jeff Lewis, and many more.
Good Food, Good Music, Good Drinks, = Good Times
https://www.facebook.com/Bluesberry-CAFE-245591678792724/
×4:00 pm
Deak Harp has been playing harmonica since he was 12 years old. His biggest early inspiration came when his brother introduced him to the music of James Cotton.
Deak followed Cotton's band along the east coast for close to five years before Cotton offered Deak a job driving his van. For the next six years, Deak toured with the James Cotton blues band, eventually opening acts and playing along with "Superharp" himself.
Where: Deak Harp Harmonica Shop
4:00 pm
Carlos Elliot ft. Bobby Gentilo
Colombian artist inspired by the beat of rural dance music of north Mississippi, the Hill Country Blues along with a self-discovered sense of spirituality in Blues music, creates a unique sound that blends his backgrounds in African & Latin American music with Rock n’ Roll, incites you to party and the dancing ritual. Considered the Hill Country Blues Pioneer in Latin America.
http://www.carloselliotjr.com/index/
×Where: Bluesberry Cafe
Blues Berry Cafe 1st place winners 2007 Jubliee BBQ Cook Off
Past Performers: Malted Milk Band, Lala , Incode, Super Chikan and The Fighting Cocks, Heavy Suga, Razor Blade, Shake it Like A Caveman, The Blind Ducks, Jeff Lewis, and many more.
Good Food, Good Music, Good Drinks, = Good Times
https://www.facebook.com/Bluesberry-CAFE-245591678792724/
×5:00 pm
Lucious Spiller was born in St.Louis, MO. At an early age, he discovered that God had blessed him with a special
gift. His dad gave him a guitar when he was four. Immediately he was a natural, he started out playing in church.
Lucious has performed with countless well known musicians to include Bo Diddly, Larry “Totsy” Davis, Albert
King, Eddie Clearwater, Robert Cray. He has been opening act for such artists as the legendary Ritchie Havens’
Bobby “Blue” Bland and the infamous Tower of Power, Zach Brown, and many others. His music is an energized
mix of new blues and old school injected with a contemporary edge. His songs are brought to vivid life by his
unlimited energy.
https://www.facebook.com/BlueSpiller/
×Where: Ground Zero Blues Club
PLEASE NOTE: Saturday night (April 23, 2022), IF Juke Joint Festival Sat-night Wristbands are NOT sold-out, then limited quantities will be available for purchase only at the 243 Delta Ave JJF HQ building (only till 8:30pm) AND Ground Zero Blues Club, Hambone Gallery and Hopson Commissary (if/while supplies last). Entry to any/all 20+ JJF Sat-night venues requires a festival wristband. No exceptions. Details on Wristband webpage or in program booklet.
GROUND ZERO BLUES CLUB: Clarksdale's largest real-deal blues music venue offers "live" Mississippi blues music every Wednesday to Saturday... plus special events during festival time periods. Co-owned by actor Morgan Freeman, Bill Luckett, Howard Stovall and Eric Meier, Ground Zero Blues Club will celebrate its 5th anniversary in May 2006. Besides the plethora of incredible local blues acts who have performed there, musicians from Mavis Staples and Alvin Youngblood Hart to Jerry Lee Lewis and Bobby Rush have been filmed playing there.
http://www.groundzerobluesclub.com
×5:00 pm
Where: The Den Again
A retro-cool Clarksdale classic! The Den joins Juke Joint Festival's nighttime venue roster for 2022!
5:30 pm
The Kimbrough Brothers are the sons of the great blues legend David “Junior” Kimbrough and have been continuing his musical legacy for decades. All three grew up in Junior’s famous juke joints and specialize in a distinct style of blues created by Junior Kimbrough called Cotton Patch Soul Blues. The Kimbrough Brothers began creating music together years ago with David Kimbrough Jr. on guitar, Robert Kimbrough Sr. on bass and Kinney Kimbrough on drums.
They have played many of the country’s biggest festivals and blues venues. They also have their own festival called The Kimbrough Cotton Patch Soul Blues Festival that just celebrated its sixth year.
Sadly, in early 2020, David Kimbrough Jr. passed, and the surviving brothers have chosen to carry forward as a duo [bass & drums] in honor of David's memory. The Kimbrough brothers have countless musical releases as individuals with Robert Kimbrough Sr. winning Artists Musicians Guild’s Album of the Year and Kinney Kimbrough playing drums on Hank Williams Jr’s new Black Keys release just to name a few. The Kimbrough Brothers reside in Holly Springs, Mississippi which has been their family’s stomping ground going back before Junior’s famous Juke Joints which are featured in multiple movies including Deep Blues and You See Me Laughing. Robert and Kinney continue this rich musical legacy and love sharing the Cotton Patch Soul Blues.
http://www.robertkimbroughsr.com
×Where: Bluesberry Cafe
Blues Berry Cafe 1st place winners 2007 Jubliee BBQ Cook Off
Past Performers: Malted Milk Band, Lala , Incode, Super Chikan and The Fighting Cocks, Heavy Suga, Razor Blade, Shake it Like A Caveman, The Blind Ducks, Jeff Lewis, and many more.
Good Food, Good Music, Good Drinks, = Good Times
https://www.facebook.com/Bluesberry-CAFE-245591678792724/
×6:00 pm
Tropical indie rock with a southern jangle. The beach music of Juno Dunes echoes the familiar songwriting of yacht era troubadours. “A boy band supernova.” — assistant to the hotel manager. Formed in 2018, Juno and his fender band have continued to make a name for themselves with their special brand of "when soft goes hard" trop-rock.
https://www.facebook.com/junodunes/
×Where: Hopson Commissary (main stage)
PLEASE NOTE: Saturday night (April 15, 2023), IF Juke Joint Festival Sat-night Wristbands are NOT sold-out, then limited quantities will be available for purchase only at the 243 Delta Ave JJF HQ building (only till 8:30pm) AND Ground Zero Blues Club, Hambone Gallery and Hopson Commissary (if/while supplies last). Entry to any/all 23+ JJF Sat-night venues requires a festival wristband. No exceptions. Details on Wristband webpage or in program booklet.
HOPSON: Home of the old Hopson Plantation and the current Shackup Inn, Hopson Commissary is a combination museum and music venue that has to be seen to be believed. Pinetop Perkins drove a tractor out at Hopson in the 40s, and it was also home to the first mechanical cotton picker.
6:00 pm
Some folks play the blues while some write about it and present it as their own because it is. Ray Cashman is the latter. This guy is the real deal. His songs are on the radio around the world and his European show date list alone would be the envy of anybody looking to expand internationally. Cashman has had his music featured in NBC sitcom " Council Of Dads" and the movie The Good House. He tours Europe and the USA annually and has released 9 full, studio albums with the latest being 2023 Delta Sound, recorded in Clarksdale MS
http://www.raycashman.net https://raycashman.net/photo-gallery
×Where: Against the Grain
The Woodcarver's Gallery
6:00 pm
The Stoop Down Rounders consists of 5 friends who are also seasoned musicians. Each brings a unique flare to their music. Expect the unexpected! Guitars, ukes, harps, percussion, upright bass, and a MUSICAL SAW! One thing’s for sure…you’ll be entertained! The group consists of Bill Steber, Walker T. Ryan, Sammy Baker, Austin Walkin Cane, and Libby Rae Watson!
http://Unfortunately, lost any links due to being hacked.
×6:00 pm
Jimmy "Duck" Holmes is the proprietor of one of the oldest juke joints in Mississippi, the Blue Front in Bentonia. In the mid-2000s he began performing blues actively after many years of performing casually, and has already garnered several awards and many accolades. He is a practitioner and conscious advocate of a distinctive blues style from his hometown whose most famous proponent was blues pioneer Skip James.
http://www.arts.state.ms.us/folklife/artist.php?dirname=holmes_jimmy
×Where: The Den Again
A retro-cool Clarksdale classic! The Den joins Juke Joint Festival's nighttime venue roster for 2022!
6:00 pm
There are timeless artists, and then there are timely artists. Very rarely has there been an opportunity for the two qualities to juxtapose- then along comes CRUZ The Dame. Blending old soul with a new sound, her Vintage Music captures the spirit of the classics that made our mamas and daddies snap their fingers, marrying it with her instantly captivating style.
Fusing the gospel and doo-wop music she grew up on with the sensuality of R&B, the innovation of jazz, and the precision of Pop, CRUZ The Dame is bringing originality back to the future. Fearlessly sexy and bodily creative, CRUZ views the world through a different lens. A self-described “hybrid” born to interracial parents, with the blood of Spanish, German, Irish, African American, Native American, and Jewish ancestry running through her veins gives CRUZ a kaleidoscope of many different perspectives which are the foundation of her refreshing writing style and creative expression.
With her first public performance at just 4 years old, CRUZ began her natural calling to the performing arts. CRUZ is a multi-hyphenate whose talents include singing, dancing, writing, and acting. On stage, CRUZ brings her music to life through passionate movement further enhanced by her warm outgoing verbal prowess. Whether it’s her “Pin-Up” style of fashion, inspired by the classic pin-up artwork of the 1940s, or her ability to deliver her brand of the traditional torch song with a style-based jolt from the modern era, CRUZ differentiates herself from her peers.
Where: Ground Zero Blues Club
PLEASE NOTE: Saturday night (April 23, 2022), IF Juke Joint Festival Sat-night Wristbands are NOT sold-out, then limited quantities will be available for purchase only at the 243 Delta Ave JJF HQ building (only till 8:30pm) AND Ground Zero Blues Club, Hambone Gallery and Hopson Commissary (if/while supplies last). Entry to any/all 20+ JJF Sat-night venues requires a festival wristband. No exceptions. Details on Wristband webpage or in program booklet.
GROUND ZERO BLUES CLUB: Clarksdale's largest real-deal blues music venue offers "live" Mississippi blues music every Wednesday to Saturday... plus special events during festival time periods. Co-owned by actor Morgan Freeman, Bill Luckett, Howard Stovall and Eric Meier, Ground Zero Blues Club will celebrate its 5th anniversary in May 2006. Besides the plethora of incredible local blues acts who have performed there, musicians from Mavis Staples and Alvin Youngblood Hart to Jerry Lee Lewis and Bobby Rush have been filmed playing there.
http://www.groundzerobluesclub.com
×7:00 pm
Where: Bluesberry Cafe
Blues Berry Cafe 1st place winners 2007 Jubliee BBQ Cook Off
Past Performers: Malted Milk Band, Lala , Incode, Super Chikan and The Fighting Cocks, Heavy Suga, Razor Blade, Shake it Like A Caveman, The Blind Ducks, Jeff Lewis, and many more.
Good Food, Good Music, Good Drinks, = Good Times
https://www.facebook.com/Bluesberry-CAFE-245591678792724/
×7:00 pm
Rachelle bought her first guitar on her 15th birthday, just before her mother surprised her by taking her to a Lonnie Mack and Stevie Ray Vaughan performance that same night. As a child, she studied violin and then switched to guitar. She earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Classical Guitar Performance from the prestigious University of Miami School of Music. During this time Rachelle developed her unique finger-style approach to playing blues rhythm and lead guitar and was inspired when she got the chance to play with the Legendary Buddy Guy. Aside from her soulful guitar playing, she is equally known for her voice and songwriting. This American Showplace Music artist’s accomplishments include powerful performances both in the United States and Internationally, such as major festivals like Mississippi Juke Joint Festival, The King Biscuit Blues Festival, The Chicago Blues Festival, as well as the BB King Day Symposium.
Where: Hambone Art & Music
PLEASE NOTE: Saturday night (April 15, 2023), IF Juke Joint Festival Sat-night Wristbands are NOT sold-out, then limited quantities will be available for purchase only at the 243 Delta Ave JJF HQ building (only till 8:30pm) AND Ground Zero Blues Club, Hambone Gallery and Hopson Commissary (if/while supplies last). Entry to any/all 20+ JJF Sat-night venues requires a festival wristband. No exceptions. Details on Wristband webpage or in program booklet.
HAMBONE: "Hambone Art Gallery" and bar, Artwork by Stan Street , is located at 111 East Second St.,between Madidi's and Theo's Rock and Roll Museum . Formerly Conerly shoes [ co- owned by Charlie Conerly, quarterback of the New York Giants and Old Miss.] Before that, the building was the old Delta theatre. Owners Stan and Dixie Street moved to Clarksdale from So. Florida. Both
blues musicians, they were drawn here by the city's historical roots. Stan is a poster designer for many roots and blues festivals throughout the U.S. and Canada. The Artwork is mostly musical, but the Gallery also has landscapes from the Delta, Abstracts, and ecclectic Found Object
pieces.
7:00 pm
Lou Shields continues the tradition of American music with a solo-performance that pulls in styles of days-gone-by. Using his 1931 National Resonator Guitar or Banjo accompanied by a unique front porch style of foot percussion and harmonica, he uses his voice as an extension of the past. Lou carries a full sound during live performances while sharing stories, thoughts and experiences with the audience. He has toured throughout the United States and Europe for over 15 years and has released 8 full-length albums and 13 EP’s.
Where: Levon's Bar & Grill
7:00 pm
Reverend Robert is a master of prewar blues. He has delved deep into the styles of Charley Patton, Robert Johnson and other delta blues giants. In the past two decades he has become accomplished at many other early twentieth century styles including ragtime and early jazz, Hawaiian, African and Caribbean. He combines these styles seamlessly in a combination of infectious rhythm and an authentic acoustic sound.
In 2004 he took first place at the National Slide Guitar Festival in North Carolina The Reverend is known for his true conviction, and powerful delivery. You can hear it on his latest CD "Shake That Thing."
Where: Against the Grain
The Woodcarver's Gallery
8:00 pm
He's been flying in the face of convention his whole career. No smoke, no mirrors, no choreography, no industry machines. One of the most versatile bluesmen in Texas, Randy plays driving drums and world-class harmonica, writes incredible songs and has one of the most amazing and soulful voices.
Where: Hambone Art & Music
PLEASE NOTE: Saturday night (April 15, 2023), IF Juke Joint Festival Sat-night Wristbands are NOT sold-out, then limited quantities will be available for purchase only at the 243 Delta Ave JJF HQ building (only till 8:30pm) AND Ground Zero Blues Club, Hambone Gallery and Hopson Commissary (if/while supplies last). Entry to any/all 20+ JJF Sat-night venues requires a festival wristband. No exceptions. Details on Wristband webpage or in program booklet.
HAMBONE: "Hambone Art Gallery" and bar, Artwork by Stan Street , is located at 111 East Second St.,between Madidi's and Theo's Rock and Roll Museum . Formerly Conerly shoes [ co- owned by Charlie Conerly, quarterback of the New York Giants and Old Miss.] Before that, the building was the old Delta theatre. Owners Stan and Dixie Street moved to Clarksdale from So. Florida. Both
blues musicians, they were drawn here by the city's historical roots. Stan is a poster designer for many roots and blues festivals throughout the U.S. and Canada. The Artwork is mostly musical, but the Gallery also has landscapes from the Delta, Abstracts, and ecclectic Found Object
pieces.
8:00 pm
Where: The Den Again
A retro-cool Clarksdale classic! The Den joins Juke Joint Festival's nighttime venue roster for 2022!
8:00 pm
Where: New Roxy (main stage)
The New Roxy is a former movie theater located in the historic New World District of downtown Clarksdale. After deteriorating over a 30-year vacancy, this iconic building is being resurrected as a vibrant music, art, and theater venue for you to discover and enjoy.
Step inside to experience the regrowth—original sloping concrete floor, masonry stage, distressed brick walls, space for dancing, drinking, dining—all beneath a gorgeous view of the night sky through the open rooftop.
We are open throughout the year for events such as festivals, theater performances, film screenings and private parties. Two separate areas await your arrival. The front bar features a small, intimate stage (now fully covered and weather-proof) while the open-air main stage provides ample room for larger productions.
8:00 pm
Robert Kimbrough Sr Blues Connection
The Kimbrough Brothers are the sons of the great blues legend David “Junior” Kimbrough and have been continuing his musical legacy for decades. All three grew up in Junior’s famous juke joints and specialize in a distinct style of blues created by Junior Kimbrough called Cotton Patch Soul Blues. The Kimbrough Brothers began creating music together years ago with David Kimbrough Jr. on guitar, Robert Kimbrough Sr. on bass and Kinney Kimbrough on drums.
They have played many of the country’s biggest festivals and blues venues. They also have their own festival called The Kimbrough Cotton Patch Soul Blues Festival that just celebrated its sixth year.
Sadly, in early 2020, David Kimbrough Jr. passed, and the surviving brothers have chosen to carry forward as a duo [bass & drums] in honor of David's memory. The Kimbrough brothers have countless musical releases as individuals with Robert Kimbrough Sr. winning Artists Musicians Guild’s Album of the Year and Kinney Kimbrough playing drums on Hank Williams Jr’s new Black Keys release just to name a few. The Kimbrough Brothers reside in Holly Springs, Mississippi which has been their family’s stomping ground going back before Junior’s famous Juke Joints which are featured in multiple movies including Deep Blues and You See Me Laughing. Robert and Kinney continue this rich musical legacy and love sharing the Cotton Patch Soul Blues.
http://www.robertkimbroughsr.com
×Where: Red's Lounge
Red's Lounge? It's the definition of a real-deal Mississippi juke joint. Don't expect to be spoiled with amenities. All you need is a been-there-done-that owner, some beers as big as your head and some "live" blues you'll never forget. (Oh, and MAYBE something out front on the grill.) This is how blues became blues... how the music grew up out of the cotton fields and onto a round piece of vinyl. Speaking of which, the building itself was called "Levine's Music Center" back in the day, and it's where Ike Turner and his Kings of Rhythm bought the instruments that played the first rock 'n roll song. Yeah, Red's is the real thing for sure...
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Reds-Blues-Club/163702543685722
×8:30 pm
Guitarist, singer, and songwriter Duwayne Burnside is one of 14 children born to legendary North Mississippi musician R.L. Burnside and his wife, Alice. He has been a frequent performer with the North Mississippi Allstars since the early 1990s, when that group, fronted by Luther and Cody Dickinson, formed. The young Burnside learned his first few guitar licks and chords from his father, but proved a quick study and soon began playing with local club owner Junior Kimbrough and the Soul Blues Boys. Growing up in Holly Springs, he was close to Memphis, and as soon as he was able to get to Memphis, he did, and soon had the chance to sit in with Little Jimmy King, Albert King, B.B. King, Bobby "Blue" Bland, and others.
https://myspace.com/duwayneburnside
×Where: Bluesberry Cafe
Blues Berry Cafe 1st place winners 2007 Jubliee BBQ Cook Off
Past Performers: Malted Milk Band, Lala , Incode, Super Chikan and The Fighting Cocks, Heavy Suga, Razor Blade, Shake it Like A Caveman, The Blind Ducks, Jeff Lewis, and many more.
Good Food, Good Music, Good Drinks, = Good Times
https://www.facebook.com/Bluesberry-CAFE-245591678792724/
×9:00 pm
Damn Ole’ Cool Breeze & John Krupa Project’
John Krupa Project is based in New Orleans, LA and play high energy, blues-based rock'n'roll. John Krupa cut his teeth playing punk rock in Connecticut and Minneapolis, MN in the '90s and since then he's lived on the west coast and continued his journey into the deep south where the roots of American music– rock'n'roll, blues, and soul continue to influence and guide his sound.
Where: Ooze Bar
The new Ooze Bar (in former Rock & Blues Museum location next to Hambone) is the new blues bar/toy museum inspiration of The Mojo Hands leader Chris Mullens!
https://www.instagram.com/themojohands/?hl=en
×9:00 pm
Carlos Elliot ft. Bobby Gentilo
Colombian artist inspired by the beat of rural dance music of north Mississippi, the Hill Country Blues along with a self-discovered sense of spirituality in Blues music, creates a unique sound that blends his backgrounds in African & Latin American music with Rock n’ Roll, incites you to party and the dancing ritual. Considered the Hill Country Blues Pioneer in Latin America.
http://www.carloselliotjr.com/index/
×9:00 pm
Where: Delta Blues Alley Cafe (backroom stage)
The newest kid on the block, located on the corner of Delta ave. and
Blues Alley, 'now how down home is dat'. Equipped with a street side
bar open daily with pool tables, games, flat screen viewing , juke box
jams and Ice cold beer and beverages, giving you that local feel only
Clarksdale can provide. Then once you go thru the 'big hole in da
wall' and fade to black, its an unexpected experience with a dance
floor, tables, booths, a separate bar and grill for your enjoyment and
newly added mainstage for your entertainment. Local radio station
disc jockeys play the grooves nightly and blues icons and other artist
perform live @ Delta Blues Alley Caf� blues lounge. Local legends and up incoming stars like Robert Bilbro Walker, David Kimbrough and the Kimbrough Family, Cops by day, blues in the heat of the night, Otis TCB Taylor and main stage band, and Rickey Burton and all soul band, plus many
more have graced our stage and are scheduled for upcoming events.
Also coming Soon, the Saturday Night Fish Fry with Jaka Sherrie from
one of the longest running blues program in the Mississippi Delta with
live broadcast on Delta Force 3 radio and Bluesday 2'sday with live
bands every Tuesday Night, and couple 2 for 1 admission and specials.
Delta Blues Alley Caf� blues lounge welcomes you to the place where hard times and struggle fell in love, and the blues was born.
https://www.facebook.com/dbacinfo/
×9:00 pm
Anthony 'Big A' Sherrod & Allstars
Anthony “Big A” Sherrod is a young Mississippi bluesman, schooled by a noted blues teacher in the area, “Mr. Johnnie” Billington, who taught not only the music but the value of hard work and knowledge of the culture and history from which Mississippi blues emerged, a world where the musicians worked at very hard, low-paying agricultural jobs.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vnsaLmGmWEw
×Where: Ground Zero Blues Club
PLEASE NOTE: Saturday night (April 23, 2022), IF Juke Joint Festival Sat-night Wristbands are NOT sold-out, then limited quantities will be available for purchase only at the 243 Delta Ave JJF HQ building (only till 8:30pm) AND Ground Zero Blues Club, Hambone Gallery and Hopson Commissary (if/while supplies last). Entry to any/all 20+ JJF Sat-night venues requires a festival wristband. No exceptions. Details on Wristband webpage or in program booklet.
GROUND ZERO BLUES CLUB: Clarksdale's largest real-deal blues music venue offers "live" Mississippi blues music every Wednesday to Saturday... plus special events during festival time periods. Co-owned by actor Morgan Freeman, Bill Luckett, Howard Stovall and Eric Meier, Ground Zero Blues Club will celebrate its 5th anniversary in May 2006. Besides the plethora of incredible local blues acts who have performed there, musicians from Mavis Staples and Alvin Youngblood Hart to Jerry Lee Lewis and Bobby Rush have been filmed playing there.
http://www.groundzerobluesclub.com
×10:00 pm
The Mississippi based Multi-instrumentalist combines the Tribal Rhythms and raw electrifying power of the Hill Country Blues with melodic songwriting wisdom of heroes Bob Marley, Sam Cooke, Hank Williams, Bob Dylan, and Jimi Hendrix. MALCOLM fuses elements of Funk, Soul, Rock, Reggae, Hip Hop, West African World Beat, Gospel and Country to create an Authentic Signature sound in modern day World Roots Music.
https://www.lightninmalcolm.com
×Where: Bluesberry Cafe
Blues Berry Cafe 1st place winners 2007 Jubliee BBQ Cook Off
Past Performers: Malted Milk Band, Lala , Incode, Super Chikan and The Fighting Cocks, Heavy Suga, Razor Blade, Shake it Like A Caveman, The Blind Ducks, Jeff Lewis, and many more.
Good Food, Good Music, Good Drinks, = Good Times
https://www.facebook.com/Bluesberry-CAFE-245591678792724/
×(Cover may apply.)
Meraki Roasting Co. - Coffee/Tea/Beer
Hours: Thursday 7 AM - 2 PM, Friday 7 AM - 10 PM, Saturday 7 AM - 11 PM, Sunday 7 AM - 2 PM Both are located at 282 Sunflower, Clarksdale, MS 38614
×Where: Meraki Coffee Roasters
Thursday Open Mic is open to all ages, levels of talent and skill. We want everyone to come and share a piece of themselves and their love for blues. Til 5pm
Sunday breakfast with Jax Nasser 10 am to 12pm
Meraki Roasting Company - Freshly Roasted Artisan Coffee roasted in house supporting our youth entrepreneurship program. Come visit our roastery to try our current coffee profiles. Pastries made by local vendors. www.merakiroasting.com www.griotarts.com
www.merakiroasting.com www.griotarts.com
282 Sunflower Ave
Meraki Hours:
Monday-Sunday (every day!) 7am to 2 pm
http://www.griotarts.com/meraki
×Hours: Thursday 7 AM - 8 PM, Friday & Saturday 7 AM - 8PM, Sunday 7 AM - 2PM Both are located at 282 Sunflower, Clarksdale, MS 38614
×Where: Meraki Coffee Roasters
Thursday Open Mic is open to all ages, levels of talent and skill. We want everyone to come and share a piece of themselves and their love for blues. Til 5pm
Sunday breakfast with Jax Nasser 10 am to 12pm
Meraki Roasting Company - Freshly Roasted Artisan Coffee roasted in house supporting our youth entrepreneurship program. Come visit our roastery to try our current coffee profiles. Pastries made by local vendors. www.merakiroasting.com www.griotarts.com
www.merakiroasting.com www.griotarts.com
282 Sunflower Ave
Meraki Hours:
Monday-Sunday (every day!) 7am to 2 pm
http://www.griotarts.com/meraki
×All events will meet & take place street level 3rd & Sunflower in downtown Clarksdale all day 9 - 4pm every day Thursday April 11th – Saturday April 13th, 2023. For more information contact Quapaw Canoe Company or info@island63.com, John Ruskey 662-902-7841, Mark “River” Peoples 662-902-6479, Ceili Hale 601-918-6810, Sarah Lent 763-377-0212. ***Winners of the 2024 SBA Small Business of the Year Award. We are also celebrating the 25th Anniversary of Quapaw Canoe Company.***
×Where: Quapaw Canoe Company
All events will meet & take place street level 3rd & Sunflower in downtown Clarksdale all day 9 - 4pm every day Thursday April 13– Saturday April 15. For more information contact Quapaw Canoe Company or info@island63.com, John Ruskey 662-902-7841, Mark “River” Peoples 662-902-6479, Lee Perlow 312-246-3223, or Whit Smith 870-919-6654.
Canoe-Carving Demonstration & Workshop
All events will meet & take place street level 3rd & Sunflower in downtown Clarksdale all day 9 - 4pm every day Thursday April 11th – Saturday April 13th, 2023. For more information contact Quapaw Canoe Company or info@island63.com, John Ruskey 662-902-7841, Mark “River” Peoples 662-902-6479, Ceili Hale 601-918-6810, Sarah Lent 763-377-0212. ***Winners of the 2024 SBA Small Business of the Year Award. We are also celebrating the 25th Anniversary of Quapaw Canoe Company.***
×Where: Quapaw Canoe Company
All events will meet & take place street level 3rd & Sunflower in downtown Clarksdale all day 9 - 4pm every day Thursday April 13– Saturday April 15. For more information contact Quapaw Canoe Company or info@island63.com, John Ruskey 662-902-7841, Mark “River” Peoples 662-902-6479, Lee Perlow 312-246-3223, or Whit Smith 870-919-6654.
1Mississippi-Can the River Count on You?
All events will meet & take place street level 3rd & Sunflower in downtown Clarksdale all day 9 - 4pm every day Thursday April 11th – Saturday April 13th, 2023. For more information contact Quapaw Canoe Company or info@island63.com, John Ruskey 662-902-7841, Mark “River” Peoples 662-902-6479, Ceili Hale 601-918-6810, Sarah Lent 763-377-0212. ***Winners of the 2024 SBA Small Business of the Year Award. We are also celebrating the 25th Anniversary of Quapaw Canoe Company.***
×Where: Quapaw Canoe Company
All events will meet & take place street level 3rd & Sunflower in downtown Clarksdale all day 9 - 4pm every day Thursday April 13– Saturday April 15. For more information contact Quapaw Canoe Company or info@island63.com, John Ruskey 662-902-7841, Mark “River” Peoples 662-902-6479, Lee Perlow 312-246-3223, or Whit Smith 870-919-6654.
25th Anniversary Prayer Flag Workshop
All events will meet & take place street level 3rd & Sunflower in downtown Clarksdale all day 9 - 4pm every day Thursday April 11th – Saturday April 13th, 2023. For more information contact Quapaw Canoe Company or info@island63.com, John Ruskey 662-902-7841, Mark “River” Peoples 662-902-6479, Ceili Hale 601-918-6810, Sarah Lent 763-377-0212. ***Winners of the 2024 SBA Small Business of the Year Award. We are also celebrating the 25th Anniversary of Quapaw Canoe Company.***
×Where: Quapaw Canoe Company
All events will meet & take place street level 3rd & Sunflower in downtown Clarksdale all day 9 - 4pm every day Thursday April 13– Saturday April 15. For more information contact Quapaw Canoe Company or info@island63.com, John Ruskey 662-902-7841, Mark “River” Peoples 662-902-6479, Lee Perlow 312-246-3223, or Whit Smith 870-919-6654.
All events will meet & take place street level 3rd & Sunflower in downtown Clarksdale all day 9 - 4pm every day Thursday April 11th – Saturday April 13th, 2023. For more information contact Quapaw Canoe Company or info@island63.com, John Ruskey 662-902-7841, Mark “River” Peoples 662-902-6479, Ceili Hale 601-918-6810, Sarah Lent 763-377-0212. ***Winners of the 2024 SBA Small Business of the Year Award. We are also celebrating the 25th Anniversary of Quapaw Canoe Company.***
×Where: Quapaw Canoe Company
All events will meet & take place street level 3rd & Sunflower in downtown Clarksdale all day 9 - 4pm every day Thursday April 13– Saturday April 15. For more information contact Quapaw Canoe Company or info@island63.com, John Ruskey 662-902-7841, Mark “River” Peoples 662-902-6479, Lee Perlow 312-246-3223, or Whit Smith 870-919-6654.
Clarksdale Cooks Event with Julie Diaz
Clarksdale Cooks Event with Julie Diaz ($40) - Join Julie Diaz for a vegan cooking class with a Delta flare! Learn to craft delicious, locally-sourced dishes in a fun, communal setting. Cook, connect, and leave inspired. Location: Griot Arts Studio C, 282 Sunflower Ave. Pre-registration suggested: please contact the organizer directly at clarksdalecooks@gmail.com
×Where: Griot Arts Studio C
"Celebrating the Future of the Riverside Hotel"
(including the 'unveiling' of the new hotel sign) Riverside Hotel, 615 Sunflower Ave. Please visit the website: www.riversideclarksdale.com
×Friday, April 12th 5 PM - 10 PM Karaoke & Talent Night (Free) - A night for singers, musicians, and performers alike! Bring your voice, instrument, or unique talent to the stage, or simply come to enjoy the variety. Everyone’s welcome to showcase or cheer in this celebration of creativity! Location: Meraki Roasting Company, 278 Sunflower Ave. No registration required.
×Where: Meraki Coffee Roasters
Thursday Open Mic is open to all ages, levels of talent and skill. We want everyone to come and share a piece of themselves and their love for blues. Til 5pm
Sunday breakfast with Jax Nasser 10 am to 12pm
Meraki Roasting Company - Freshly Roasted Artisan Coffee roasted in house supporting our youth entrepreneurship program. Come visit our roastery to try our current coffee profiles. Pastries made by local vendors. www.merakiroasting.com www.griotarts.com
www.merakiroasting.com www.griotarts.com
282 Sunflower Ave
Meraki Hours:
Monday-Sunday (every day!) 7am to 2 pm
http://www.griotarts.com/meraki
×Friday, April 12th 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM Cycling ($8) - Join us for an exhilarating session of cycling, teamwork, and sweat! Open to everyone, our event promises nothing but great music and positive vibes. Get ready to pedal to the beat, connect with fellow enthusiasts, and enjoy a fun-filled workout. Good music, good company, and a great workout await! Location: Griot Arts - Studio A at the corner of Sunflower & Third St. Pre-registration suggested: info@griotarts.org
×
Juke Joint Festival® name and logo are registered trademarks of Clarksdale Downtown Development Association. All rights reserved.
FREE sidewalk performances! Please tip your musicians, y'all
Hobson back yard stage
13 Third Street. Harmonica students playing.
Hill Country bluesman.
Steak, Catfish, Burgers Pizza, Pasta
