Thursday, March 26, 2026

Jazz & Blues Festival Weekend in Downtown Maitland – 12 Bands, April 10–11, 2026 | FREE!


Two Days of Jazz & Blues
Music in Maitland!
Presented by Duke Energy
2026 Maitland Jazz and Blues Festival will feature 12 local and touring acts, food, family activities, and more April 10-11, 2026 in Independence Square.
Friday & Saturday, April 10-11, 2026
Independence Square
1776 Independence Ln, Maitland, FL 32751
MAP  WEBSITE (407) 616-5338
FREE ADMISSION!

The 2026 Maitland Jazz & Blues Festival 2026 will feature 12 local and touring acts on April 10-11, 2026 at Independence Square in downtown Maitland. 

Headlining the two stages are award-winning soul, blues, and R&B vocalist Curtis Salgado, contemporary jazz saxophonist Jessy J, blues-rock guitarist Sean Chambers, and soul-blues vocalist Billy Price.

Also appearing on the blues stage are Damon Fowler, Josh Rowand, and Will Patrick. The jazz stage lineup includes Alex Harris, Ella and the Bossa Beat, Hannah Stokes, the Winter Park High School Jazz Band, and the Maitland Stage Band.

Festivalgoers can enjoy two days of live music along with food, drinks, vendors, and a kids play area. Chairs and blankets are welcome for lawn seating in front of the two stages. Parking is available around the event site. Admission is FREE.

Curtis Salgado is widely recognized for his work in soul and blues and for his long recording career. Jessy J began playing music at an early age and has recorded or performed with artists including Michael Bublé, Jessica Simpson, the Temptations, Anita Baker, Robin Thicke, and Michael Bolton.

Sean Chambers, a Florida Music Hall of Fame inductee, has built an international following through his guitar-driven blues releases and touring. Billy Price has released a long line of albums and has received multiple Blues Music Award nominations over the course of his career.

Friday, April 10, 2026

Jazz Stage
6 PM – Winter Park High Jazz Band
8 PM – Jessy J

Blues Stage
7 PM – Billy Price
9 PM – Curtis Salgado

Saturday, April 11, 2026

Jazz Stage
2 PM – Maitland Stage Band
4 PM – Hannah Stokes
6 PM – Ella and the Bossa Beat
8 PM – Alex Harris

Blues Stage
3 PM – Will Patrick
5 PM – Josh Rowand
7 PM – Damon Fowler
9 PM – Sean Chambers

For more information and VIP package tickets, visit 2026 Maitland Jazz & Blues Festival.


Event sponsors include Duke Energy, Advent Health, Cigna Healthcare, First Horizon Bank, Holler Ford, and Brewlando.

Food, Beverage, Art and Craft Vendors on Site.
Bring Chairs or Blankets. No Coolers. No Pets.



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Jazz & Blues Florida
JazzBluesFlorida.com
(561) 313-7432  WhatsApp Text Only Please
#JazzBluesFlorida #Jazz #Blues #Clubs #Concerts #Festivals
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Wednesday, March 25, 2026

Gainesville Big Band Brings Back the Classic Jazz Standards of Tony Bennett April 12, 2026

Gainesville Big Band
Presents the Music of Larger-Than-Life 
Tony Bennett 
SUNDAY • APRIL 12, 2026 • 2:00 - 4:00 PM
Jazz 101: 
Tribute to Legend Tony Bennett
at
Meizon Church
Gainesville, FL
3411 NW 83rd St, Gainesville, FL 32606
MAP  |  WEBSITE
$15 + fees (advance online)
$20 + fees at the door (credit card)
No fees for cash at the door

Tony Bennett (1926–2023) was a leading interpreter of jazz standards whose career spanned more than seven decades. Known for his warm tone, phrasing, and respect for melody, he built a repertoire drawn from the Great American Songbook and worked closely with top jazz musicians throughout his life. His recordings and performances reflected a commitment to traditional vocal jazz, with influences rooted in artists like Frank Sinatra and Nat King Cole, while also collaborating with generations of younger performers. Bennett remained an active presence well into his later years, helping sustain interest in classic jazz vocal tradition for new audiences.

Join us for a tribute to Tony Bennett, featuring timeless classics and performances that recognize his contributions to jazz music. On Sunday, April 12, 2026 audiences are invited to an afternoon program highlighting this enduring repertoire, presented by the GBB with a special guest appearance by the Williston High School Jazz Ensemble, under the direction of Mr. Joe Davis.The performance brings together experienced and emerging musicians, reflecting the ongoing connection between generations through jazz.

The concert will take place at Meizon Church, 3411 NW 83rd St, beginning at 2:00 pm. This program offers an opportunity to hear familiar songs performed live while acknowledging the lasting influence of one of jazz’s most respected vocal interpreters.

Season Finale Concert!

SUNDAY • JUNE 14, 2026 • 2:00 - 4:00 PM
Sounds of Summer
Gainesville, FL
MAP  |  WEBSITE
Gainesville Big Band Musicians
Saxophones:
Alto 1 — Ryan Gamberino
Alto 2 — Joanna Adhami
Tenor 1 — John Gregory
Tenor 2 — Brian Johnson
Baritone Saxophone — Joe Davis
Trumpets:
Trumpet 1 — Rick Marion
Trumpet 2 — Ryan Hall
Trumpet 3 — Vito Montauk
Trumpet 4 — Adrienne Widener
Vocalist: Timothy Trail
Trombones:
Trombone 1 — Ethan Spencer
Trombone 2 — Michael Murphy
Trombone 3 — Jayven Cromwell
Bass Trombone — Marco Thomas
Rhythm Section:
Guitar — Darren Burgess
Piano — Pamelli Marafon
Bass — Chad Young
Drums — Jon Jackson
Director
Marco Thomas is from Ellenwood, GA, a suburb of Atlanta. He is a bass trombone player who studied music education at Florida Southern College in Lakeland, FL. His principal teacher there was Brian Brink. Thomas earned his Bachelor of Music Education in 1999 and began teaching middle school band in Hardee County in January 2000. He then entered the University of Florida in the summer of 2002, where he earned his Master of Music in trombone performance. His principal teacher there was Arthur Jennings. After graduation, he took a position at Hawthorne Middle/High School as Director of Bands (2004–2007). He began his current position as the music teacher at Williams Elementary in Gainesville during the 2007–2008 school year.
ABOUT Gainesville Big Band
The Gainesville Big Band is an 18-piece jazz ensemble based in North Central Florida, dedicated to preserving and presenting the big band tradition while engaging today’s audiences with fresh, themed programming. Since its founding in 2007, the ensemble has brought together experienced musicians from across the region to perform music ranging from classic swing and jazz standards to contemporary big band works.
Under the direction of Marco Thomas, the Gainesville Big Band presents concerts that spotlight key styles, composers, and cultural movements within jazz history. The ensemble places emphasis on musical excellence, education, and community engagement, offering performances that are accessible, informative, and musically rewarding.
Through regular concert series and special programs, the Gainesville Big Band continues to strengthen the cultural life of the Gainesville area while honoring the lasting legacy of American jazz.
MISSION
The mission of the Gainesville Big Band, Inc. is to promote an awareness of the educational, spiritual, and civic benefits of jazz through traditional and modern repertoire.
GAINESVILLE BIG BAND CONNECTIONS
Gainesville Big Band Logo
Sponsorships include Meizon Church, Visit Gainesville / Alachua County, Hoggtowne Music, Renaissance Printing and the following community individuals: Rosella Smith, Roger Reep, Wesley Eubanks, Jon Reiskind, ​Kelly Harris, Jack Siegel, and Jim Heiser. To join these community cultural leaders as sponsors, click HERE for more information.


Jazz & Blues Florida - Support Local Music
#JazzBluesFlorida  #GainesvilleFL  #GainesvilleLive  #LiveMusicFlorida  #FloridaMusicScene  #JazzInGainesville  #LiveJazzFlorida  #GainesvilleEvents  #GainesvilleBigBand  #MarcoThomas  #LiveMusic  #CommunityConcert  #SundayFunday  #BigBandJazz  #AirConditionedConcert  #MusicLovers


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Saturday, March 21, 2026

Registration Now Open for Swingin' Summer Jazz Camp in St, Johns FL | July 20-23, 2026

Swingin’ Summer Jazz Camp Returns
With New St. Johns Location for 2026
Registration is now open for the 8th Annual Swingin’ Summer Jazz Camp, scheduled for July 20-23, 2026 at its new location, Freedom Crossing Academy in St. Johns, Florida. Open to students from 7th grade through adults, the four-day camp offers instruction from professional educators and musicians in a focused jazz learning environment.

Camp curriculum includes vocal and instrumental instruction, jazz history, guest clinicians, jazz fundamentals, jazz repertoire, master classes, music theory, ensemble performance preparation, stylistic interpretation, improvisation, and a student jam session.

JULY 20-23, 2026
Freedom Crossing Academy
St. Johns, Florida
1365 Shetland Drive, St. Johns, FL 32259
MAP

Camp hours are 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday through Thursday. Tuition is $200 per student. A camp T-shirt, bottled water, and snacks are provided. Students should bring a bag lunch.

The camp week concludes on Thursday, July 23, 2026 with special events including a 2:45 PM to 3:45 PM post-concert visit to music vendor tables and a 4:00 PM student/faculty showcase concert. The concert on July 23, 2026 is free and open to the public.

Instrumentalists need to be able to read music and play their instruments proficiently enough to succeed in a big band jazz setting. At least one year of experience in a school jazz band is recommended, but not required.

Vocalists do not need to read music to participate, but will be performing in a soloist, not choral, setting.

Receive expert instruction in the following areas:
  • Big Band ensembles
  • Jazz combo and small groups
  • Vocal jazz
  • Jam session etiquette
  • Jazz style concepts
  • Jazz history and the roots of jazz
  • Improvisation and music theory
  • Instrument master classes
  • Performance experience
For registration information, contact 904-703-8687 or email kellyscottmusic14@att.net. Additional information is available at zentz.org/summer-jazz-camp-2026.html.

2026 PRO FACULTY INCLUDES:
Lisa Kelly (Camp Director, Voice)
Eight-time DownBeat Magazine award-winning vocalist, composer, and arranger, Lisa is a highly regarded jazz vocal stylist, performing regionally and internationally in jazz clubs, for jazz societies, and at major venues and festivals, including the Kennedy Center, Vienna State Opera House, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, and the Montreux, North Sea, and Pescara Jazz Festivals. The featured vocalist with many ensembles, including the Larry Elgart Orchestra, St. Johns River City Band, UNF JE 1, IAJE Sisters in Jazz, and the Florida Swing Orchestra, she has sung with many notables including Arturo Sandoval, Danny Gottlieb, Jane Monheit, and Ed Calle. With a B.M. and M.M. in jazz studies from UNF, Lisa has taught music theory and vocal jazz at LaVilla and Douglas Anderson School of the Arts, is the vocal jazz instructor at UNF, and is a popular artist/clinician and adjudicator for music programs and festivals. Profiled in the 2010 book The New Face of Jazz and inducted into the 2013 Jacksonville Jazz Festival Hall of Fame, she co-leads music groups with trumpeter J.B. Scott.
http://www.kellyscottmusic.com

Don Zentz (Music Director, Saxophone, Vanguard Band)
An acclaimed music educator now retired after 41 years, Don completed his career as Director of Jazz Studies at Douglas Anderson School of the Arts. Prior teaching includes The Bolles School, Valdosta State University, UNF, FSCJ, and middle and high schools in Florida and Georgia. Don’s students have won numerous national awards and recognitions, including The Midwest Clinic, JEN, Bands of America, IAJE, the Montreux Jazz Festival, National Jazz Festival, Mark of Excellence, Swing Central, Basically Basie, Notre Dame Jazz Festival, and National Collegiate Jazz Festival. His awards include the John LaPorta Jazz Educator Award (JEN), National Jazz Festival Jazz Educator of the Year, Jacksonville Jazz Festival Hall of Fame, Outstanding Undergraduate Professor at UNF, and DownBeat Jazz Education Achievement Award. A Keilwerth Saxophones performing artist since 1995, Don has performed with the Jacksonville Symphony, played lead alto with the Fabulous Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra ghost band, and continues to perform in pit orchestras for touring off-Broadway shows throughout the Southeast. He was elected to the Board of Directors of The Midwest Clinic in 2023.
https://zentz.org/

J.B. Scott (Brass, Big Bands, Combos)
From Philadelphia, PA, J.B. Scott was the first graduate of the UNF Jazz Program under Rich Matteson. He then earned his master’s degree at FIU studying with Arturo Sandoval. He toured with the Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra, Ringling Bros. Barnum & Bailey Circus (Japan), and led the Dukes of Dixieland in New Orleans, which was featured on the PBS special A Salute to Jelly Roll Morton, and performed with Skitch Henderson and the New York Pops at Carnegie Hall. He has performed with legends including Al Hirt, Paquito D’Rivera, Jeff Hamilton, Lynn Seaton, and Tim Hagans. An Associate Professor teaching trumpet, J.B. is the Coordinator of Jazz Studies at UNF, the Great American Jazz Series, and the award-winning UNF JE 1. A Warburton Signature Artist, popular adjudicator, artist/clinician, profiled in the book The New Face of Jazz, he was inducted into the 2017 Jacksonville Jazz Festival Hall of Fame.
https://webapps.unf.edu/faculty/bio/N00004206

Laurie Zentz (Camp Host, Blue Note Band)
Laurie Zentz was the Band Director at Freedom Crossing Academy in St. Johns County until her retirement in 2025. She has been selected as Teacher of the Year six times. She was the Teacher of the Year for St. Johns County and a Top Five Finalist for Macy’s Florida Teacher of the Year. She was a 2016 and 2017 recipient of the Governor’s “Shine Award for Inspired Teaching.” She was selected for “Fifty Band Directors Who Make a Difference” by SBO Magazine. In 2023 she was awarded the “Woman of Action” Award by the EMMA Guild. Her jazz ensembles have been awarded “Most Outstanding Middle School Jazz Ensemble” at the Lakeside Jazz Festival three times, and in 2022 her middle school jazz ensemble won the virtual division of the National Jazz Festival. Her jazz ensembles have received superior ratings at the JU Jazz Festival, Music USA Festival, and the Koger Jazz Festival.
https://zentz.org/laurie-zentz.html

Jeff Phillips (Rhythm Section, Piano)
A much in-demand accompanist and artist/clinician, Jeff has served over 16 years in Lakeland, FL, as adjunct faculty for Harrison School for the Arts, nine years at Polk State College, and over 35 years teaching piano and tuba privately. A former staff pianist at Walt Disney World Theme Parks for 23 years at the Grand Floridian, he was a member of the Rhythm Rascals, The Hollywood Hit Men, and Bill Allred’s Classic Jazz Band. Jeff has performed with many notables, including Clark Terry, Buddy DeFranco, Bob Draga, Allan Vaché, and the Midiri Brothers, in clubs, for jazz societies, and at major festivals regionally and internationally. He has appeared on many recordings, television, and radio. Expert on piano, organ, and tuba, Jeff created a signature approach to playing piano and foot pedal bass. He regularly presents music clinics, adjudicates, serves on jazz camp faculties, has written FMEA All-State audition materials, and mentored award-winning music students.
https://www.youtube.com/@1965JWP



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(561) 313-7432 WhatsApp Text Only Please
#JazzBluesFlorida #Jazz #Blues #Clubs #Concerts #Festivals
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Friday, March 20, 2026

Beautiful Bobby Blackmon Returns to Gainesville’s A. Quinn Jones Museum with Soul, R&B and Blues on March 29, 2026

Meet Your Neighbors Out On The
Blues Patio!

Sunday, March 29, 2026 | 7–9 PM | FREE
at the
A. Quinn Jones Museum & Cultural Center
1013 NW 7th Ave
Gainesville, FL 32601
MAP   WEBSITE (352) 334-2010
FACEBOOK EVENT - Invite your friends!

The Blues are the roots of African American music today. Blues on the Patio, a Spring and Fall series curated by the North Central Florida Blues Society, features local and regional blues artists. The series provides a network of association for area blues listeners and builds upon the Blues Education program by encouraging youth participation. Admission is FREE!

Beautiful Bobby Blackmon returns to Gainesville with his signature blend of soul, R&B, and blues guitar to open the Blues on the Patio series at the A. Quinn Jones Museum & Cultural Center. With a career spanning decades across the South and beyond, Blackmon remains a steady presence on Florida’s blues circuit, recognized for his smooth vocals, expressive guitar work, and engaging connection with audiences. Career highlights include opening performances for B. B. King (2010) and Buddy Guy (2008).

His performances reflect a clear understanding of the many styles within the blues tradition, moving comfortably between them with precision and purpose. On stage, his natural ease and thoughtful interaction with the audience contribute to a performance style that adjusts seamlessly to the feel of each song.

Whether presenting well-known standards or his own material, Blackmon offers a genuine blues experience rooted in tradition while remaining fresh and relevant. His return to Gainesville sets the tone for the season and provides a strong opening for this community-centered concert series.

As this annual series continues to grow in popularity, attendees are encouraged to bring a spare chair in case seating is filled.

The A. Quinn Jones Museum & Cultural Center, housed in the former Jones Family home, serves as a tribute to one of the most influential educators in the history of Alachua County. The museum features a permanent exhibit on “Prof” Jones, the people and places of the Fifth Avenue/Pleasant Street neighborhood, and a collection of oral histories centered on the African American experience in Gainesville.

UPCOMING SERIES PERFORMANCES

Sunday, April 26, 2026 | 7–9 PM | FREE
Rev. Billy C. Wirtz
FACEBOOK EVENT - Invite your friends!

Sunday, September 6, 2026 | 7–9 PM | FREE
Sheba the Mississippi Queen w/ Dr. Jules Cool Blues
FACEBOOK EVENT - Invite your friends!

SERIES SPONSORS
The City of Gainesville Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs Department

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Jazz & Blues Florida 
JazzBluesFlorida.com
(561) 313-7432 WhatsApp Text Only Please
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8th Annual North Central Florida Women in Blues Showcase May 17, 2026 at Heartwood Soundstage in Gainesville, FL

North Central Florida
Women in Blues Showcase 2026
Sunday, May 17, 2026 | Doors 2p, Show 3p
at
619 South Main Street
Gainesville, FL 32601
(352) 258-8557
Facebook Event Page - Invite your friends!

The North Central Florida Blues Society’s 8th annual Women in Blues Showcase will be held on May 17, 2026, at Heartwood Soundstage. Join the blues community in celebrating the Blues and the important role female performers have played, continue to play, and will play in keeping the genre vibrant.

The North Central Florida Women in Blues Showcase annually hosts national, regional, and local female blues performers. This powerful day of music is a favorite among attendees and has fostered unity and friendship among diverse performers.

The North Central Florida Blues Society is proud to announce the all-woman backing band and featured artists for the 8th annual North Central Florida Women in Blues Showcase:

Backing Band:
Drums: Deb Berlinger, Tallahassee, FL
Bass: Elizabeth Hangan, Los Angeles, CA
Guitar: Vange Durst, Palm Coast, FL

Featured Artists:
Garnetta Cromwell (South Hamilton, ON, Canada)
Vange Durst (Palm Coast, FL)
Doris "Lady D" Fields (Beckley, WV)
Elizabeth Hangan (Los Angeles, CA)
Kiersi Joli (Nashville, TN)
Nella B (Upper Marlboro, MD)
Cat Rhodes (Pensacola, FL)
Sheba the Mississippi Queen (Ocala, FL)
Mary Washington-Brooks (Fort Lauderdale, FL)

Women in Blues events are dedicated to spotlighting and supporting female artists in the blues genre, addressing historical disparities and promoting equal opportunities in the music industry. Through festivals, jam sessions, showcases, and live streams, these events provide a platform for female blues musicians to share their talent, connect with audiences, and gain recognition. By raising awareness of the contributions of women in blues, these gatherings help build a stronger, more inclusive community that fosters growth, collaboration, and appreciation for diverse voices in the genre. They help ensure that female blues artists receive the visibility and support needed to thrive while amplifying their stories and contributions on a broader scale.

Stay in touch with
North Central Florida Women in Blues
by connecting on their Facebook Page.

PAST FEATURED ARTISTS
Alex Richman (St. Augustine, FL)
Amanda Ferwerda (Gainesville, FL)
Amy Hart (Nashville, TN)
Anna Marie (Gainesville, FL)
Barbara Paul Armbrecht (R.I.P.) (Gainesville, FL)
Becky Sinn (Gainesville, FL)
Beth Reid-Grigsby (Sacramento, CA)
Beulah Mae (Ormond Beach, FL)
Bridget Kelly Fik (Gainesville, FL)
Brigitte Rios Purdy (Los Angeles, CA)
Cassie Keenum (Gainesville, FL)
CC Wilson (Baltimore, MD)
Chelsea Oxendine (Gainesville/Live Oak, FL)
Cherie Cray
Christine Alexander (Pensacola, FL)
Christine Leiser (Ocala, FL)
Cindy Bear (Jacksonville, FL)
Deb Ryder (Topanga, CA)
Deby Starr
Doris "Lady D" Fields (Beckley, WV)
Elizabeth Hangan (Los Angeles, CA)
Gayle Harrod (Baltimore, MD)
Janelle Frost (Panama City Beach, FL)
Kellie Rucker (Mystic, CT)
Kiersi Joli (Nashville, TN)
Kim Reteguiz (Jacksonville, FL)
Lauren Mitchell (San Miguel de Allende, MX)
Laurie Lacross-Wright (Winter Haven, FL/Flint, MI)
Maggie McKinney (Panama City, FL)
Marie Williams (R.I.P.) (Gainesville, FL)
Melanie Murray (Gainesville, FL)
Michelle Banfield (Gainesville, FL)
Nicole Wagner (Keystone Heights, FL)
Niecie (Detroit, MI/Nashville, TN)
Nora Gauck (Keystone Heights, FL)
Pam Taylor (Lancaster, SC)
Patti Parks (Buffalo, NY)
Queen Iretta Sanders (Jackson, MS)
Ruth Wyand (Kill Devil Hills, NC)
Sarah Menefee (Bloomington, IN)
Sheba the Mississippi Queen (Ocala, FL)
Sugar and Spice (Tampa, FL)
Sunny Bleau (Oxford, MI)
Tina Jackson (Paramount, CA)
Tullie Brae (Nashville, TN)
Yolanda Raftice (R.I.P.) (Melrose, FL)

Heartwood Soundstage
Nestled in the heart of Gainesville, Florida, Heartwood Soundstage stands out as a vibrant music venue, enriching the local music scene with its unique charm. Boasting a state-of-the-art sound system and a cozy yet spacious setting, Heartwood provides an intimate experience for music enthusiasts. The venue's commitment to showcasing live jazz and blues aligns seamlessly with the diverse cultural offerings in the area. With its welcoming ambiance and neighboring food and beverage options, Heartwood Soundstage has become a go-to spot for both local and touring artists, creating memorable performances that resonate with audiences. From its inviting atmosphere to its dedication to promoting live music, Heartwood Soundstage has solidified its place as a cornerstone of Gainesville's musical landscape.

The North Central Florida Blues Society is a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation, cultivation, nurturing, and promotion of blues music. Members enjoy substantial ticket price discounts that can easily offset the cost of membership over the course of a year. Join today at: https://ncfblues.org

AREA VISITOR & LODGING INFO AT:



This program/event is funded in part by a grant from the
The BLUES has HISTORY in
GAINESVILLE!
22 YEARS OF BRINGING THE BEST BLUES
IN THE WORLD TO GAINESVILLE FLORIDA!

2026
Cory Hall
Jasper Smitty
Mud Morganfield

2025
John Németh
Toots Lorraine & The Traffic
The Nighthawks
Rev. Billy C. Wirtz

2024
Sauce Boss Bill Wharton
Doug MacLeod
EG Kight
Cash Box Kings
Kent Burnside

2023
Brandon Santini
Joey Gilmore†
Bridget Kelly Band
Barbara Armbrecht†
Lurrie Bell
The Blues Beatles
Mr. Sipp
John Primer
Little Mike & The Tornadoes
Chris Cain

2022
Biscuit Miller
JP Soars & The Red Hots
Early Times
Mick Kolassa
The Lucky Losers
Sheba the Mississippi Queen
The Nighthawks
&
Rev. Billy C. Wirtz
Terry Hanck & His California Band

2021
Little Jake & the Soul Searchers
Mike Zito
Albert Castiglia
Bridget Kelly Band
Snacks Blues Band
Josh Miller Blues Review
Eric Gales
Reverend Billy C. Wirtz
Pam Taylor & The Flyin' V's
21 Blue Featuring Longineu Parsons

2020
Pam Taylor & The Flyin' V's
Ruth Wyand & The Tribe of One
Doug MacLeod
Rev Shawn Amos

2019
Mac Arnold & Plate Full O' Blues
Vanessa Collier
Little Mike & The Tornadoes
Bridget Kelly Band
George Worthmore Jason Ricci
Shane Dwight
Damon Fowler
Tennessee Redemption
Patti Parks
Toronzo Cannon
Albert Castiglia
Roy Book Binder

2018
Birthday Blues Bash-O-Rama w/ Anthony Gomes, Danielle Nicole & Bridget Kelly Band
BLUEZAPALOOZA: Ghost Town Blues Band & Betty Fox Band & Bridget Kelly Band
Lauren Mitchell
Rev Shawn Amos
21 Blue featuring Longineu Parsons and Ted Shumate
Bill "Sauce Boss" Wharton
Doug MacLeod

2017
Zora Young
Norman Jackson Band
Selwyn Birchwood
Jason Ricci
Gracie Curran & The High Falutin’ Band
Albert Castiglia
Lil’ Ed & the Blues Imperials

2016
Annika Chambers
Cash Box Kings
Doug MacLeod
Matt Schofield

2015
Mac Arnold & Plate Full O' Blues
Long Tall Deb Feat. Colin John
Jeff Jensen
Samantha Fish
Terry Hanck
Zora Young
Tinsley Ellis

2014
Tas Cru
Selwyn Birchwood
Janiva Magness
Mac Arnold & Plate Full O’Blues
Joe Moss Band

2013
Brandon Santini
Matt Schofield
Nikki Hill
Albert Castiglia

2012
Jimmy Thackery
John Nemeth
Roomful of Blues

2011
Kenny Neal
JP Soars
Victor Wainwright

2010
Tommy Castro
Mike Zito
Watermelon Slim
Nick Moss
John Nemeth
Ana Popovic

2009
Janiva Magness
Duke Robillard
Michael Burks†

2008
Lil’ Ed & the Blues Imperials
Magic Slim†
Jimmy Thackery
Lurrie Bell
Mighty Lester
Tab Benoit
Nighthawks

2007
Chris Cain
Sean Costello†
Sauce Boss
Bryan Lee
Mark Hummel and the Blues Survivors

2006
Eddie Kirkland†
Gary Primich†
Smokin’ Joe Kubek† & B’Nois King
Debbie Davies

2005
Delta Moon
Little Charlie & the Nightcats
Pat Ramsey† & the Blues Disciples
Anson Funderburgh & the Rockets

~ ~ ~ ~
Distributed by:
Jazz & Blues Florida
JazzBluesFlorida.com
(561) 313-7432  WhatsApp Text Only Please
#JazzBluesFlorida #Jazz #Blues #Clubs #Concerts #Festivals
Making the scene since 2006!
📬 Join Subscriber List
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Real Deal Chicago Blues! John Primer GROWN IN MISSISSIPPI Tour in Florida March & April 2026


YOU CAN'T PAINT THE 
BLUES WITHOUT THE
PRIMER!

JOHN PRIMER
"MUDDY WATERS' LAST GUITARIST!"
2024 Grammy Nominee - Best Traditional Blues Album
2023 Blues Hall of Fame Inductee
Three-time Grammy nominated Chicago blues artist
Multiple Blues Music Award winner
Former Muddy Waters bandleader

FLORIDA SPRING 2026 TOUR

Sunday, March 29, 2026 | 6:30p
Warehouse 360
Santa Rosa Beach, FL
Rules of the Blues Festival Day 2

Wednesday, April 1, 2026 | 8:00p
Cafe Eleven
St. Augustine, FL

Friday, April 3, 2026 | 9:00p
The Funky Biscuit
Boca Raton, FL

Saturday, April 4, 2026 | 7:30p
Bonita Center for the Arts
Bonita Springs, FL

Monday, April 6, 2026 | 7:00p
Flamingo Bay Brewing
Bradenton, FL
Cottonmouth Presents

Three-time Grammy nominated artist and American blues legend John Primer was the bandleader and guitarist for Muddy Waters, Willie Dixon and Magic Slim & The Teardrops. He has played or recorded with blues greats including Junior Wells, Gary Clark Jr., Derek Trucks, Johnny Winter, The Rolling Stones and Buddy Guy. John Primer has received major recognition for his contributions to the history of Chicago blues.

This spring 2026 Florida run continues John Primer’s ongoing touring history in the state with The Real Deal Blues Band.

Growing up on Mississippi sharecropper land in 1945, Primer was inspired by field songs, spirituals, and the blues. After moving to Chicago in 1963, he began building a career through foundational venues and mentors that shaped the city’s blues tradition.

Primer performed on Maxwell Street and at Theresa’s Lounge, and worked with key artists including Sammy Lawhorn and Junior Wells. He later toured with Willie Dixon and the Chicago Blues All-Stars Band. In 1981, Primer joined Muddy Waters and was asked to lead the band. After Waters’ death, Primer performed with Magic Slim & The Teardrops for 14 years, touring internationally.

In 1995, Primer began leading his own band, The Real Deal Blues Band. He has recorded on dozens of albums, including releases under his own name, and has earned major industry recognition including Grammy nominations, Blues Music Awards, and Hall of Fame honors.
 
JOHN PRIMER - Guitar/Vocals
STEVE BELL - Harmonica 
LENNY MEDIA - Drums


MANAGEMENT & BOOKING CONTACT:
Lisa Becker Primer
(708)217-2715

FESTIVAL and FLORIDA BOOKING CONTACT:
Leo Gale
TA# TA1466
Not accepting band submissions.
We're already busy working at capacity for our current roster. Thank you!


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