No information.

Robert Kimbrough Sr continues the Cotton Patch Soul Blues style created by his father, the legendary Junior Kimbrough. From an early age, Robert was steeped in the sounds and life of North Mississippi and its distinctive style of blues. Growing up, Robert listened, first-hand to Mississippi blues royalty that played with his father at home, at Junior’s Juke Joint Club, and the ever frequent weekend house party and porch jam session. The blues was simply part of everyday life as a Kimbrough. Robert continues his father’s musical tradition, along with some of his siblings. You can often find many of them sharing the stage on any given night in Mississippi. The Kimbrough name, along with the Burnside name, is part of a blues dynasty that remains strong today, bringing people from all over the world to see and hear them play. The Cotton Patch Soul Blues style that Robert plays is a straight link to the music that his father originated in North Mississippi. It is a deep soul sound that can be linked back to his ancestors coming from the cotton fields, singing and ‘hollering‘ as they worked in the tall rows of Mississippi cotton. This distinct and somewhat underground style of blues is rooted in hypnotic, rhythms and dance-able grooves. The Black Keys released an entire album in 2006 of Junior Kimbrough cover songs called Chulahoma: The Songs of Junior Kimbrough. Up until the mid 80s, the only way to hear this music was to visit a church-turned-blues-den founded by Junior Kimbrough in Chulahoma, MS that unfortunately burned down in 2000.

Stuart Knowles is a published songwriter, producer, and musician from the UK who writes great Indie Rock and Pop songs with solid commercial appeal. Fronting the Rock band Ninja Baby, as well as recording solo material, his music has been used by FOX USA, Channel 5, and Virgin, among many others. Stuart's catchy and recognizable tracks, both instrumental and with vocals, feature vibrant performances and top-notch production, making them perfect for everything from In-Store uses to Film, TV, and Commercial productions.

North Mississippi Hill Country blues boogieman Lightnin' Malcolm (usually with his trusty sidekick Prayer Bailey on drums and second vocals) has been a fixture at juke joints like Red's Lounge (and yard parties like ol' RL Boyce used to throw) for years and years. He's also played on stage or in studio with everyone from Big George Brock and RL Boyce to Hubert Sumlin and CeDell Davis.

Grammy Award winG Artist, Musician, Realist, Prod., Tymple, GtownsounD; Mainstream; Masterminds

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.

Reverend Robert is known for his genuine conviction and honest delivery. His passion for the blues led him to the prewar blues style of Charley Patton, Robert Johnson, and other delta blues giants. Having immersed himself in their recordings, Reverend Robert emerged with an authentic feeling for the blues that is matched by his easy-going and artistic personality. Reverend Robert’s tasteful slide guitar playing garnered the attention of the National Slide Guitar Festival in North Carolina where he took first place in their competition in 2004. He has entertained audiences throughout the United States, Canada, the U.K., Europe, and India. In the past two decades he has developed his one-man blues show to incorporate the influences of jazz, ragtime, and swing, as well as Caribbean, Hawaiian, African and Indian music. The perfect combination of tradition and creative innovation, the Reverend’s music is at home on festival stages or in the street, in clubs or in the backyard. Its dance music played with a stomping beat and irresistible groove.

“From sizzling slide guitar…to nitty-gritty harp blowing…to a gruff, resonating Okie twang, Slim delivers acutely personal workingman blues with both hands on the wheel of life, a bottle of hooch in his pocket, and the Bible on the passenger seat” (HARP Magazine). Slim was raised in North Carolina listening to the housekeeper sing John Lee Hooker songs. In the Vietnam war he wound up in a hospital bed where he taught himself upside-down left-handed slide guitar on a $5 balsawood model using a triangle pick cut from a rusty coffee can top and his Army issued Zippo lighter as the slide. Slim has been a truck driver, forklift operator, sawmiller (where he lost a partial finger), firewood salesman, collection agent, funeral officiator and at times a small time criminal. His colorful songs and raw talent reflect his many adventures and misadventures. Very entertaining!

Bill Abel learned first hand from Delta blues legends of the likes of Paul “Wine" Jones, Cadillac John Nolden, T Model Ford, and Honey Boy Edwards. Bill plays a hard driving electrified country blues, a gritty unorthodox modern day juke joint sound, unique in its own. He has toured Europe and the United States headlining many festivals.

Noon to 6PM Dr. B's open mic.

Ilana Katz Katz is a Blues and Appalachian fiddler, singer, songwriting musical chameleon whose busking passion began on Boston’s subway platforms in 2008. Known internationally for her signature solo performances, she also lends her fiddling prowess to a who’s who of Blues musicians and beyond as a recording artist and special guest. She does her best to bring positive vibes to our strange world by offering (FREE) home-baked cookies at her performances. Ilana is also a novelist, sews one-of-a-kind jackets and berets, makes organic body balm, and is a henna artist. More info: www.ilanakatz.com and @ilanakatzkatz (Instagram) and www.facebook.com/ilanakatzkatz

In front of Deak’s Harmonica shop 2:00 PM to 430 Bill Abel and groove wranglers.

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

Wednesday 4:00-6:00 pm Women in Blues Welcome Party #LiveFrom Clarksdale Thursday 4:00-5:00pm Women in Blues Happy Hour

Bear Ryan & The Delta Snakes transcend boundaries, blending elements of blues, country, americana, and rock n roll - evoking the raw, soulful essence of the swampy south. Made up of Clarksdale locals, the Delta Snakes feature heavy-hitters such as Guitar Frenchie, Ryan Robertson, and “BE” on drums. Bear Ryan draws her inspiration from the rich, diverse tapestry of Texas Country and Delta Blues - channeling these influences into her distinct brand of “low fence” rock n roll - as both a gifted singer and compelling songwriter. “The Snakes” will captivate and hypnotise an audience making their toes tap and heads nod.

The Blue Room Piano Fest 216 Third Street 7PM Dr. B 8Pm Cricket 9PM Lala

Edna Nicole and Rev Slim

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.

The Blue Room Piano Fest 216 Third St 7PM Dr. B 8PM Cricket 9PM Lala

The Blue Room Piano Fest 216 Third Street 7PM Dr. B 8PM Cricket 9PM Lala

Piano boogieman — originally from The Netherlands. Former owner of the Rock & Blues Museum in Clarksdale. Also ask about his musical "splash art."

BE is a multi instrumentalist from Miami Florida playing all styles of music from blues, soul, rock, jazz and more. For the past 3 years he has been traveling the country as a independent musician mainly spending his time in clarksdale learning the roots of the blues and backing up the local blues legends like Anthony “big a” Sherrod, Lala Craig, Lucious spiller, Terry “big t” Williams, Sean bad apple, Mississippi Marshal and more. This year at JJF he performs everything he has learned through the years by playing his favorite blues songs and some originals.

Noon to 6PM Dr. B's open mic.

Deak’s Harmonica shop

Lou Shields armed with his 1931 National Resonator and his 1930s archtop guitars captivates his audiences with his unique front porch style. A prolific songwriter, Lou performs original songs inspired by Country Blues, Delta Blues and American Roots. Lou is a must see.

If you like guitar driven blues rock, fluid and intricate finger style guitar picking, and emotional songwriting, you are at the right place. With over forty years of teaching guitar lessons to beginners and advanced players alike, along with over thirty CD’s on the market, Roger “Hurricane” Wilson has made his own mark on the music world. The legendary Les Paul once said about Roger, This guy plays some great blues.” Atlanta treasure Francine Reed stated that, Roger “Hurricane” Wilson is a force to be reckonedwith.” With over a million miles under his belt, and having shared the stage with such notable artists as B.B. King, Buddy Guy, Hubert Sumlin, Willie “Big Eyes” Smith, Jorma Kaukonen, Charlie Musselwhite, and many more. Roger “Hurricane” Wilson is just getting started.

RL SUPERBAD (AKA: Robin Lane ) is a Primitive, Experimental Mississippi Blues Man, based from the North Missisippi Hill Country Blues genre with a mixture of Delta, Chicago, Rock, String Band....which equals Alien KonTraFusion. He is a multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, song writer/story teller, One Man Band and instrument builder (Low N Slow Creations). Born early 60s August 2 in Topeka, KS. With no musical background from family or friends, RL didn't begin playing until 2009, a year after coming to Clarksdale, MS for a weekend in early 2008. There he heard and met Robert "Wolfman" Belfour who introduced him to North Mississippi Hill Country Blues, which changed his life forever. That same night he met Terry Harmonica Bean and Sean "Bad" Apple, both of whom frequently played in Clarksdale juke joints. RL worked with his good friend Tater on the latter's CD titled "SUPERBAD", which was released 11/20/10. Unfortunately, Tater had passed at 63 years old on 9/10/10. To get him a Sidewalk Plaque, RL raised funds by hosting Tater's Memorial Birthday Bash at Club 2000, as well as Jams at Cat Head, Juke Joint Festival and other downtown venues. In 2011 RL played his first JJF and since has played at Sunflower Blues Festival, King Biscuit Blues Fest, Deep Blues Fest, Memphis in May, KnobFest, Huntsville Cigar Box Guitar Fest, Clarksdale Cigar Box Guitar Fest, Nashville Cigar Box Guitar Festival , Ozark Cigar Box Guitar Festival, Buddy Guy's in Chicago, and all over the streets of Clarksdale. Having shared the stage with Robert Belfour, T Model Ford, Sean Apple and Big Boy Martin Grant, Mr. Tater, Liz Mandeville, Bill Abel, Maurice Vaughan, John Long, Reverend Robert, SpoonMan, Ray Cashman, Watermelon Slim, Deak Harp, Rhode Island Red, Reverend KM Williams and various others, RL is currently playing with Mason Stevens (AKA Mason JARrr Stevens) as a duo.

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.

3 to 3:45 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

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.

Steve Kolbus was influenced by the styles Pinetop Perkins, Willie "Big Eyes" Smith, Bob Stroger, and Hubert Sumlin. Little Arthur Duncan, a great Chicago harpist, taught him to sing play and write music. His Clarksdale Blues Revue is a high energy Rockin Blues band that enjoys making people happy. Their live show is a high energy interactive show with lots of antics!

Wednesday 4:00-6:00 pm Women in Blues Welcome Party #LiveFrom Clarksdale Thursday 4:00-5:00pm Women in Blues Happy Hour

Ramblin’ Dan Stevens is an acoustic blues stylist, bottleneck slide player and protege of New York City's folk legend Dave Van Ronk. His music has been described as "Houserockin' fingerstyle blues emanating from the depths of the delta and careening through the New York centered folk/blues revival to the present. Spirit, presence and originality married to a reverence for authenticity of style." Long a relentlessly touring solo artist covering the Eastern US, Virgin Islands, UK and Germany, Dan performs a diverse selection of upbeat acoustic and electric blues, originals and roots music.

Laura "Lala" Craig is a female blues artist whose rollicking path to the Delta landed her at the Crossroads of her passions for love and music, fulfilling her dream to become an entertainer and share her harmony with partner, Dino Musso.

Ramblin’ Dan Stevens is an acoustic blues stylist, bottleneck slide player and protege of New York City's folk legend Dave Van Ronk. His music has been described as "Houserockin' fingerstyle blues emanating from the depths of the delta and careening through the New York centered folk/blues revival to the present. Spirit, presence and originality married to a reverence for authenticity of style." Long a relentlessly touring solo artist covering the Eastern US, Virgin Islands, UK and Germany, Dan performs a diverse selection of upbeat acoustic and electric blues, originals and roots music.

All Crawfish Go to Heaven is a trio consisting of Scott Dennis (guitar and vocals) and brothers Will Arledge (guitar and vocals) and Curt Arledge (drums), playing the deep blues of the Mississippi Hill Country and Delta regions, focusing on the hypnotic grooves of RL Burnside, Junior Kimbrough, and Fred McDowell, amongst others.  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allcrawfishgotoheaven? igsh=Mm42YW51YmxkaHht&utm_source=qr Other clips: https://youtu.be/rRylNdFwg_w?si=9b1eHLvMfhlCqGq- https://youtu.be/bzQ7DAN-FKo https://youtu.be/E11mFOo3pFc

Carlos Elliot, a Colombian band, pioneers Hill Country Blues in Latin America. Influenced by Mississippi Delta legends like James T-Model Ford, Big Jack Johnson, and RL Boyce, their unique blend of blues, rock, funk, soul, and ancestral rhythms has captivated audiences worldwide. Their music bridges cultures, generations, and continents, exploring universal themes of love, struggle, and hope.

Louisiana born Heater Crosse began singing as a child and later picked up the bass guitar. She learned to love the blues from Detroit/Arkansas Bluesman, St. Thomas Jenkins while living in Hot Springs, Arkansas then furthered her talent in Mississippi playing with Super Chikan & The Fighting Cocks, Stan Street and the Hambone Band, and Big T & The Family. Her robust style of blues and soul music is buttressed by the dynamic drumming of Lee Williams and cutting guitar of Walt Busby.

Thursday April 9 - 8PM - Bill Abel and The Delta Shakedown Jam Band with John Masolini’s Psychedelic Cosmic Galaxy Liquid Light Show

Ryan Lee Crosby (12 string + vocal), Grant Smith (calabash) and Jay Scheffler (harmonica). Ryan Lee Crosby lives in Rhode Island, but his musical heart is in Mississippi. He has released numerous albums, toured internationally and is a devoted practitioner of the Bentonia Blues tradition. Smithsonian Magazine called him "a young torchbearer" of the style and praised his ability to "bring influences from Africa and India to the Bentonia sound." Crosby's new album "At the Blue Front" (featuring legend Jimmy “Duck” Holmes) offers a hypnotic meld of Bentonia and Hill Country blues. Recorded on tape at Holmes’ iconic juke joint, the album was produced by Crosby, with a selection of original and traditional repertoire.

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.

Laura "Lala" Craig is a female blues artist whose rollicking path to the Delta landed her at the Crossroads of her passions for love and music, fulfilling her dream to become an entertainer and share her harmony with partner, Dino Musso.

RL SUPERBAD (AKA: Robin Lane ) is a Primitive, Experimental Mississippi Blues Man, based from the North Missisippi Hill Country Blues genre with a mixture of Delta, Chicago, Rock, String Band....which equals Alien KonTraFusion. He is a multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, song writer/story teller, One Man Band and instrument builder (Low N Slow Creations). Born early 60s August 2 in Topeka, KS. With no musical background from family or friends, RL didn't begin playing until 2009, a year after coming to Clarksdale, MS for a weekend in early 2008. There he heard and met Robert "Wolfman" Belfour who introduced him to North Mississippi Hill Country Blues, which changed his life forever. That same night he met Terry Harmonica Bean and Sean "Bad" Apple, both of whom frequently played in Clarksdale juke joints. RL worked with his good friend Tater on the latter's CD titled "SUPERBAD", which was released 11/20/10. Unfortunately, Tater had passed at 63 years old on 9/10/10. To get him a Sidewalk Plaque, RL raised funds by hosting Tater's Memorial Birthday Bash at Club 2000, as well as Jams at Cat Head, Juke Joint Festival and other downtown venues. In 2011 RL played his first JJF and since has played at Sunflower Blues Festival, King Biscuit Blues Fest, Deep Blues Fest, Memphis in May, KnobFest, Huntsville Cigar Box Guitar Fest, Clarksdale Cigar Box Guitar Fest, Nashville Cigar Box Guitar Festival , Ozark Cigar Box Guitar Festival, Buddy Guy's in Chicago, and all over the streets of Clarksdale. Having shared the stage with Robert Belfour, T Model Ford, Sean Apple and Big Boy Martin Grant, Mr. Tater, Liz Mandeville, Bill Abel, Maurice Vaughan, John Long, Reverend Robert, SpoonMan, Ray Cashman, Watermelon Slim, Deak Harp, Rhode Island Red, Reverend KM Williams and various others, RL is currently playing with Mason Stevens (AKA Mason JARrr Stevens) as a duo.

For nearly two decades, Batterton and Edwards have crafted a unique sound that marries the raw authenticity of Ozark mountain music with the soulful depth of Delta blues. Their music emerges from the natural confluence of Arkansas traditions — where banjo meets slide guitar, where mountain hollers blend with field songs, where front porch picking sessions flow into juke joint rhythms. Multi-instrumentalists and seasoned vocalists, they transform traditional country blues through their deep understanding of both high country and lowland sounds. Every performance carries the dust of Delta crossroads and the mist of mountain mornings

Noon to 6PM Dr. B's open mic.

3 to 3:45 PM

Reverend Robert is known for his genuine conviction and honest delivery. His passion for the blues led him to the prewar blues style of Charley Patton, Robert Johnson, and other delta blues giants. Having immersed himself in their recordings, Reverend Robert emerged with an authentic feeling for the blues that is matched by his easy-going and artistic personality. Reverend Robert’s tasteful slide guitar playing garnered the attention of the National Slide Guitar Festival in North Carolina where he took first place in their competition in 2004. He has entertained audiences throughout the United States, Canada, the U.K., Europe, and India. In the past two decades he has developed his one-man blues show to incorporate the influences of jazz, ragtime, and swing, as well as Caribbean, Hawaiian, African and Indian music. The perfect combination of tradition and creative innovation, the Reverend’s music is at home on festival stages or in the street, in clubs or in the backyard. Its dance music played with a stomping beat and irresistible groove.

Will Coppage is a Mississippi-born songwriter and performer whose indie-blues sound fuses Delta roots with a modern edge. A touring artist across the U.S. and Europe, Coppage previously performed alongside blues legacy Stud Ford. His music moves from country blues and flatpicking fire to beats that blur the line between juke joint and indie stage, driven by cinematic, poetic songwriting. It’s Loud Roots, Indie Grit, and Delta Swagger—a raw and real sound born of Mississippi dust and modern drive.

Piano boogieman — originally from The Netherlands. Former owner of the Rock & Blues Museum in Clarksdale. Also ask about his musical "splash art."

Ramblin’ Dan Stevens is an acoustic blues stylist, bottleneck slide player and protege of New York City's folk legend Dave Van Ronk. His music has been described as "Houserockin' fingerstyle blues emanating from the depths of the delta and careening through the New York centered folk/blues revival to the present. Spirit, presence and originality married to a reverence for authenticity of style." Long a relentlessly touring solo artist covering the Eastern US, Virgin Islands, UK and Germany, Dan performs a diverse selection of upbeat acoustic and electric blues, originals and roots music.

Deak’s Harmonica shop

Ryan Lee Crosby (12 string + vocal), Grant Smith (calabash) and Jay Scheffler (harmonica). Ryan Lee Crosby lives in Rhode Island, but his musical heart is in Mississippi. He has released numerous albums, toured internationally and is a devoted practitioner of the Bentonia Blues tradition. Smithsonian Magazine called him "a young torchbearer" of the style and praised his ability to "bring influences from Africa and India to the Bentonia sound." Crosby's new album "At the Blue Front" (featuring legend Jimmy “Duck” Holmes) offers a hypnotic meld of Bentonia and Hill Country blues. Recorded on tape at Holmes’ iconic juke joint, the album was produced by Crosby, with a selection of original and traditional repertoire.

Born and raised in Clarksdale, MS. Cricket began playing piano at age five and developed into a skilled blues pianist and singer. She has recorded and performed with blues legends such as Sam Carr, Robert "Bilbo" Walker, and Chicago's Dave Riley. Her performance history includes appearances at notable venues like Morgan Freeman's Ground Zero, Bluesberry, Hambones Art gallery, Red's, B. B. King's Club Ebony in Indianola, MS, The Hostil, Oxford Blues Festival, Big Steam Blues Festival Hot Springs, AR., the King Biscuit Festival, Helena, AR., Sunflower Blues Festival, and many more. She performed at Clarkdale's Juke Joint Festival, April, 2025, both daytime and evening slots and had a special guest appearance on "Rock on Radio, calling in live from Clarksdale to share her music and experiences.

Ray Cashman is a Mississippi singer, songwriter, and guitarist whose gritty, blues-driven sound has carried him across stages throughout the United States and Europe. For over 20 years, he has toured USA and Europe annually, earning a loyal following with his powerful voice, raw guitar style, and storytelling through song. Performing mostly original material, Cashman’s music blends traditional blues roots with a modern edge, creating songs that are both timeless and deeply personal. His catalog includes several acclaimed albums, and his work has been featured in television and motion pictures, further cementing his reputation as an authentic voice in American roots music.

Ramblin’ Dan Stevens is an acoustic blues stylist, bottleneck slide player and protege of New York City's folk legend Dave Van Ronk. His music has been described as "Houserockin' fingerstyle blues emanating from the depths of the delta and careening through the New York centered folk/blues revival to the present. Spirit, presence and originality married to a reverence for authenticity of style." Long a relentlessly touring solo artist covering the Eastern US, Virgin Islands, UK and Germany, Dan performs a diverse selection of upbeat acoustic and electric blues, originals and roots music.

Lou Shields armed with his 1931 National Resonator and his 1930s archtop guitars captivates his audiences with his unique front porch style. A prolific songwriter, Lou performs original songs inspired by Country Blues, Delta Blues and American Roots. Lou is a must see.

New and classic blues brought to you from Ventura, California by Delta by the Beach. This lively quartet brings jumping blues, funky-swamp sounds and exhilarating dance grooves to the party. “Our feet are on the beach but our hearts are in Mississippi ”

Bill Abel learned first hand from Delta blues legends of the likes of Paul “Wine" Jones, Cadillac John Nolden, T Model Ford, and Honey Boy Edwards. Bill plays a hard driving electrified country blues, a gritty unorthodox modern day juke joint sound, unique in its own. He has toured Europe and the United States headlining many festivals.

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

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. Growing up, Joe was mesmerized watching his grandad play and learned to sing along. His grandad passed away and left his guitar to Joe. That’s when he learned to play guitar like he’d always wanted to. A few years later he also learned fiddle and really began to find his niche. After high school, he attended college on a music scholarship and played in a country music ensemble. After college, he played professionally based out of Nashville and Memphis. However, the Texas music scene had always appealed to him. In November 2014 he got the opportunity to move to north Texas where he produced a record on singer songwriter Tom McElvain titled “Redemption”.

Crawfish Boil with Joe Austin & The Tallahatchies Hopson Courtyard 10 Commissary Circle

Duwayne has been immersed in music since birth, as the sound of his father and friends’ playing regularly filled the Burnside household. At 12, he began to play drums, occasionally supporting R.L. and performing in the bands at Junior Kimbrough’s juke joint in the fields outside of Holly Springs. By age 14, he’d switched to guitar and became a member of his father’s band just in time for the recording of Sound Machine Groove. At 15, he moved to Memphis to make his own way in the dynamic and vital blues scene that sprawls from the Bluff City to Mississippi’s hills and Delta. He ricocheted between Memphis and the Holly Springs area in subsequent decades, settling in his hometown once again in the early 2000s. Duwayne has also supplemented his career as a guitarist, singer, and bassist by operating a series of juke joints in Memphis, Chulahoma, and Holly Springs. Just this spring he opened the latest: the Burnside Bar and Grill at 645 North Highway 7 in Holly Springs.

Ray Cashman is a Mississippi singer, songwriter, and guitarist whose gritty, blues-driven sound has carried him across stages throughout the United States and Europe. For over 20 years, he has toured USA and Europe annually, earning a loyal following with his powerful voice, raw guitar style, and storytelling through song. Performing mostly original material, Cashman’s music blends traditional blues roots with a modern edge, creating songs that are both timeless and deeply personal. His catalog includes several acclaimed albums, and his work has been featured in television and motion pictures, further cementing his reputation as an authentic voice in American roots music.

Singer and Songwriter of Delta Blues/Delta Roots and Contemporary Folk. 2025 Arkansas Americana nominee. Sixth album Delta Traces is currently charted at number 3 on the Roots Contemporary folk chart. It is over a year old and spent several months as number one. Currently recording my seventh album. Delta Traces has grabbed international play and also features fellow former Jefferson County Arkansas artist Bobby Rush on the single Hambone Stomp.

Deak’s Harmonica shop

North Mississippi Hill Country blues boogieman Lightnin' Malcolm (usually with his trusty sidekick Prayer Bailey on drums and second vocals) has been a fixture at juke joints like Red's Lounge (and yard parties like ol' RL Boyce used to throw) for years and years. He's also played on stage or in studio with everyone from Big George Brock and RL Boyce to Hubert Sumlin and CeDell Davis.

Robert Kimbrough Sr continues the Cotton Patch Soul Blues style created by his father, the legendary Junior Kimbrough. From an early age, Robert was steeped in the sounds and life of North Mississippi and its distinctive style of blues. Growing up, Robert listened, first-hand to Mississippi blues royalty that played with his father at home, at Junior’s Juke Joint Club, and the ever frequent weekend house party and porch jam session. The blues was simply part of everyday life as a Kimbrough. Robert continues his father’s musical tradition, along with some of his siblings. You can often find many of them sharing the stage on any given night in Mississippi. The Kimbrough name, along with the Burnside name, is part of a blues dynasty that remains strong today, bringing people from all over the world to see and hear them play. The Cotton Patch Soul Blues style that Robert plays is a straight link to the music that his father originated in North Mississippi. It is a deep soul sound that can be linked back to his ancestors coming from the cotton fields, singing and ‘hollering‘ as they worked in the tall rows of Mississippi cotton. This distinct and somewhat underground style of blues is rooted in hypnotic, rhythms and dance-able grooves. The Black Keys released an entire album in 2006 of Junior Kimbrough cover songs called Chulahoma: The Songs of Junior Kimbrough. Up until the mid 80s, the only way to hear this music was to visit a church-turned-blues-den founded by Junior Kimbrough in Chulahoma, MS that unfortunately burned down in 2000.

Ryan Lee Crosby (12 string + vocal), Grant Smith (calabash) and Jay Scheffler (harmonica). Ryan Lee Crosby lives in Rhode Island, but his musical heart is in Mississippi. He has released numerous albums, toured internationally and is a devoted practitioner of the Bentonia Blues tradition. Smithsonian Magazine called him "a young torchbearer" of the style and praised his ability to "bring influences from Africa and India to the Bentonia sound." Crosby's new album "At the Blue Front" (featuring legend Jimmy “Duck” Holmes) offers a hypnotic meld of Bentonia and Hill Country blues. Recorded on tape at Holmes’ iconic juke joint, the album was produced by Crosby, with a selection of original and traditional repertoire.

Dallas Alice is a high energy avant- garde duo where first generation blues meets jazz fusion. True spontaneity where nothing is rehearsed or written but a live musical conversation between two pros. Dallas Alice is comprised of the virtuosity of Alice Hasen of Memphis, TN and the fearless improvisation of Mississippi music veteran John Mohead.

All Crawfish Go to Heaven is a trio consisting of Scott Dennis (guitar and vocals) and brothers Will Arledge (guitar and vocals) and Curt Arledge (drums), playing the deep blues of the Mississippi Hill Country and Delta regions, focusing on the hypnotic grooves of RL Burnside, Junior Kimbrough, and Fred McDowell, amongst others.  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allcrawfishgotoheaven?igsh=Mm42YW51YmxkaHht&utm_source=qr Other clips: https://youtu.be/rRylNdFwg_w?si=9b1eHLvMfhlCqGq- https://youtu.be/bzQ7DAN-FKo https://youtu.be/E11mFOo3pFc

Ghalia Volt is a force of nature who comes to Juke Joint Festival from New Orleans but originally hails from Belgium, where the blues bug bit early. After multiple visits to Mississippi and the American South in search of real-deal blues and roots musics, she moved here to join the scene. This year, she'll be featured as her amazing one-woman-blues-band. Be sure to ask about her latest CD and LP releases after her shows!

The youngest guitar playing son of North Mississippi blues legend Junior Kimbrough keeps his father's "cotton patch soul blues" sounds alive at jukes, clubs and festivals throughout the South. Robert and his band are regulars at Juke Joint Festival, having played the annual event for years. Ask him about his latest CD.

He's been called "The Torchbearer of the Clarksdale Sound" with good reason. No other blues guitarist alive played with so many of the late-greats of the infamous Clarksdale blues scene. Anthony "Big A" Sherrod played in bands with Big Jack Johnson, Super Chikan, Big George Brock, Bilbo Walker, Wesley "Junebug" Jefferson, Michael "Dr. Mike" James, Josh "Razorblade" Stewart, Mr. Johnnie Billington and others (plus sat in with Buddy Guy's 1990s Clarksdale appearance). Today, he leads his own deeply-juke-joint blues trio: Big A & the Allstars, with Heather Crosse and Lee Williams. (PHOTO BY JEFF KONKEL.)

John Krupa Project started in New Orleans, LA (and has recently relocated to Austin, TX) and play deep groove, 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. While focussing on writing and recording his original songs, he is not ashamed to wear his influences on his sleeves– Rolling Stones, Johnny Winter, The Faces, Allman Brothers Band, North Mississippi Hill Country Blues, Stax records style soul, Tony Joe White, Black Crowes, as well as proto-punk and garage bands like The Stooges, The Clash, MC5 and The Sonics. The sound that comes out is a product of the experiences lived.

Stan Steet and friends play regularly at Hambone Gallery, 111 E. Second Street.

Dr. B is the piano player who runs the Clarksdale's cool, new listening room— The Blue Room—where he hosts a weekly Open Mic, film screenings and more. Plan now to attend his new Son House Tribute Festival!

If you like guitar driven blues rock, fluid and intricate finger style guitar picking, and emotional songwriting, you are at the right place. With over forty years of teaching guitar lessons to beginners and advanced players alike, along with over thirty CD’s on the market, Roger “Hurricane” Wilson has made his own mark on the music world. The legendary Les Paul once said about Roger, This guy plays some great blues.” Atlanta treasure Francine Reed stated that, Roger “Hurricane” Wilson is a force to be reckonedwith.” With over a million miles under his belt, and having shared the stage with such notable artists as B.B. King, Buddy Guy, Hubert Sumlin, Willie “Big Eyes” Smith, Jorma Kaukonen, Charlie Musselwhite, and many more. Roger “Hurricane” Wilson is just getting started.

Downtown Charlie Brown, a Chicagoland favorite, is a regular at landmarks like Buddy Guy’s Legends and The Desplaines Theater in Chicagoland. He performs at venues across the country, including Ground Zero in Clarksdale and Biloxi, Mississippi, on King Biscuit Time in Helena, Arkansas, Bluesberry Café in Clarksdale, and XCAl in Ashburn Verginia. You can see him at festivals across the United States. He was referred to as “Chicago’s Delta” by American Blues Scene and was also featured in Living Blues, and BG Blues and Music News Magazines. His band’s focus is Delta and Chicago Blues.

8:30 pm LIVE MUSIC : Carlos Elliot,Bobby Gentilo,Eduardo Oviedo Bluesberry Cafe 235 Yazoo Ave

Blue Room 216 Third St

All Crawfish Go to Heaven is a trio consisting of Scott Dennis (guitar and vocals) and brothers Will Arledge (guitar and vocals) and Curt Arledge (drums), playing the deep blues of the Mississippi Hill Country and Delta regions, focusing on the hypnotic grooves of RL Burnside, Junior Kimbrough, and Fred McDowell, amongst others.  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allcrawfishgotoheaven?igsh=Mm42YW51YmxkaHht&utm_source=qr Other clips: https://youtu.be/rRylNdFwg_w?si=9b1eHLvMfhlCqGq- https://youtu.be/bzQ7DAN-FKo https://youtu.be/E11mFOo3pFc

In the world of Mississippi blues and folk art, you won't find much better than Mr. James "Super Chikan" Johnson. He is the man. His "live" shows are legendary for their originality and energy. Whether he's playing his signature B.C. Rich guitar or one of his homemade gas can "Chikan-tars," you'll know that good times have entered the building after the first three notes. Winner of the Governor's Award for Excellence in the arts, Chikan recently released his 4th and perhaps best CD, "Chikan Supe." He's been all over the world, but this weekend he's back in town.

Guitarist, Jesse Cotton Stone, is a Colorado-Born, American Highway-Raised, Blues Man. He began teaching himself to play blues guitar by ear, starting at the age of 11. And he's been pickin' his guts out all over the U.S. since 1994. Jesse has toured from Colorado to the Bayous of Southern Louisiana several times and has performed multiple shows at the King Biscuit Blues Festival in Helena, AR., the Juke Joint Festival and Deep Blues Festival in Clarksdale, Mississippi, not to mention Juke joints Road houses and other small venues throughout the region.

Reverend Robert is known for his genuine conviction and honest delivery. His passion for the blues led him to the prewar blues style of Charley Patton, Robert Johnson, and other delta blues giants. Having immersed himself in their recordings, Reverend Robert emerged with an authentic feeling for the blues that is matched by his easy-going and artistic personality. Reverend Robert’s tasteful slide guitar playing garnered the attention of the National Slide Guitar Festival in North Carolina where he took first place in their competition in 2004. He has entertained audiences throughout the United States, Canada, the U.K., Europe, and India. In the past two decades he has developed his one-man blues show to incorporate the influences of jazz, ragtime, and swing, as well as Caribbean, Hawaiian, African and Indian music. The perfect combination of tradition and creative innovation, the Reverend’s music is at home on festival stages or in the street, in clubs or in the backyard. Its dance music played with a stomping beat and irresistible groove.

Conrad Olson, Shane King, & Alice Hasen Hopson Commissary 10 Commissary Circle

Just Groovin Experience is the ultimate Memphis-based rhythm section that knows to get the party started. Comprised of talented musicians Charles Gage on drums, John Gage on keys and vocals, Shine Turner as rhythm and lead guitar, and Robb Roaten on bass guitar,

Goodnight Irene is a duo from the Netherlands who continue the tradition of married couples playing the Blues. Years ago they fell in love with the Delta and have been coming back ever since for new adventures. They are inspired by artists like Mississippi John Hurt, Josh White and Lil' Green. Come see their show and become part of their adventures too!!

Robert Kimbrough Sr continues the Cotton Patch Soul Blues style created by his father, the legendary Junior Kimbrough. From an early age, Robert was steeped in the sounds and life of North Mississippi and its distinctive style of blues. Growing up, Robert listened, first-hand to Mississippi blues royalty that played with his father at home, at Junior’s Juke Joint Club, and the ever frequent weekend house party and porch jam session. The blues was simply part of everyday life as a Kimbrough. Robert continues his father’s musical tradition, along with some of his siblings. You can often find many of them sharing the stage on any given night in Mississippi. The Kimbrough name, along with the Burnside name, is part of a blues dynasty that remains strong today, bringing people from all over the world to see and hear them play. The Cotton Patch Soul Blues style that Robert plays is a straight link to the music that his father originated in North Mississippi. It is a deep soul sound that can be linked back to his ancestors coming from the cotton fields, singing and ‘hollering‘ as they worked in the tall rows of Mississippi cotton. This distinct and somewhat underground style of blues is rooted in hypnotic, rhythms and dance-able grooves. The Black Keys released an entire album in 2006 of Junior Kimbrough cover songs called Chulahoma: The Songs of Junior Kimbrough. Up until the mid 80s, the only way to hear this music was to visit a church-turned-blues-den founded by Junior Kimbrough in Chulahoma, MS that unfortunately burned down in 2000.

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.

Sunday April 12th, Meraki, The Hodge Podge Collage, 11:15 AM

Lou Shields armed with his 1931 National Resonator and his 1930s archtop guitars captivates his audiences with his unique front porch style. A prolific songwriter, Lou performs original songs inspired by Country Blues, Delta Blues and American Roots. Lou is a must see.

Laura "Lala" Craig is a female blues artist whose rollicking path to the Delta landed her at the Crossroads of her passions for love and music, fulfilling her dream to become an entertainer and share her harmony with partner, Dino Musso.

Downtown Charlie Brown, a Chicagoland favorite, is a regular at landmarks like Buddy Guy’s Legends and The Desplaines Theater in Chicagoland. He performs at venues across the country, including Ground Zero in Clarksdale and Biloxi, Mississippi, on King Biscuit Time in Helena, Arkansas, Bluesberry Café in Clarksdale, and XCAl in Ashburn Verginia. You can see him at festivals across the United States. He was referred to as “Chicago’s Delta” by American Blues Scene and was also featured in Living Blues, and BG Blues and Music News Magazines. His band’s focus is Delta and Chicago Blues.

“From sizzling slide guitar…to nitty-gritty harp blowing…to a gruff, resonating Okie twang, Slim delivers acutely personal workingman blues with both hands on the wheel of life, a bottle of hooch in his pocket, and the Bible on the passenger seat” (HARP Magazine). Slim was raised in North Carolina listening to the housekeeper sing John Lee Hooker songs. In the Vietnam war he wound up in a hospital bed where he taught himself upside-down left-handed slide guitar on a $5 balsawood model using a triangle pick cut from a rusty coffee can top and his Army issued Zippo lighter as the slide. Slim has been a truck driver, forklift operator, sawmiller (where he lost a partial finger), firewood salesman, collection agent, funeral officiator and at times a small time criminal. His colorful songs and raw talent reflect his many adventures and misadventures. Very entertaining!

Guitarist, Jesse Cotton Stone, is a Colorado-Born, American Highway-Raised, Blues Man. He began teaching himself to play blues guitar by ear, starting at the age of 11. And he's been pickin' his guts out all over the U.S. since 1994. Jesse has toured from Colorado to the Bayous of Southern Louisiana several times and has performed multiple shows at the King Biscuit Blues Festival in Helena, AR., the Juke Joint Festival and Deep Blues Festival in Clarksdale, Mississippi, not to mention Juke joints Road houses and other small venues throughout the region.

Hosted by the torchbearer of the Clarksdale sound— Anthony "Big A" Sherrod!