Tuesday, April 21, 2026

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
Keys: Alex Richman, 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

~ ~ ~ ~
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Monday, April 20, 2026

Experience Leslie Cartaya’s Latin Acoustic Quintet in North Miami Beach – April 23, 2026

Jazz at the J Presents
Latin Jazz Star Power w/
Leslie Cartaya
Thursday, April 23, 2026 | 8:00 PM
Michael-Ann Russell JCC
Alan & Diane Lieberman Theater
18900 NE 25th Avenue
North Miami Beach, FL 33180
MAP    WEBSITE    (305) 932-4200
(Choice of table or theater-style seating; includes complimentary beverages and parking.)

Recording artist, Grammy nominee, and three-time Latin Grammy Award nominee Leslie Cartaya brings a vibrant and rhythm-driven performance to the Jazz at the J series with Latin Jazz Star Power. Known for her ability to blend traditional Cuban roots with contemporary jazz and elements of American funk, Cartaya’s performances connect audiences to the energy and musical heritage of Latin jazz while maintaining a modern, accessible sound.

Born in Havana, Cuba, and now based in Miami, Cartaya has developed an international presence through both her recordings and live appearances. Her albums “No Pares” and “Llévame Contigo” reflect her commitment to preserving the essence of Afro-Cuban music while expanding its reach through jazz harmony and contemporary influences. Her work has earned multiple Latin Grammy nominations, along with a Grammy nomination, recognizing both her vocal artistry and her role as a composer and bandleader.

This performance features a group of accomplished musicians who bring depth and authenticity to the stage. The ensemble includes Edward Magdariaga (bass), Raymer Olalde (percussion), Fernando Sanchez (piano), and Pavel Diaz (trumpet), supporting Cartaya’s expressive vocals with a dynamic and rhythmically rich foundation. Together, the group presents a program that highlights both original compositions and interpretations rooted in the Latin jazz tradition.

Presented in the Alan & Diane Lieberman Theater at the Michael-Ann Russell JCC in North Miami Beach, this concert offers an opportunity to experience a live performance shaped by strong cultural influences, technical precision, and engaging stage presence.

Personnel: Leslie Cartaya (voice); Edward Magdariaga (bass); Raymer Olalde (percussion); Fernando Sanchez (piano); Pavel Diaz (trumpet)

Musical Director: Alan Lieberman

Proceeds from this event benefit MARJCC initiatives supporting the local community. For more information, please contact
DavidS@marjcc.org or (305) 932-4200 x127
All sales are final. No refunds or exchanges.
Support Local Live Music
~ ~ ~
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Tampa Jazz Club Season Series Finale Performance Led by Dave Stryker Set for April 25, 2026 at New Tampa PAC

Classic Stevie Wonder
Interpreted Through a Jazz Lens

NEW TAMPA JAZZ NIGHTS SEASON FINALE!
New Tampa Performing Arts Center
Tampa, Florida
8550 Hunters Village Road • Tampa, FL 33647
MAP  |  WEBSITE
Saturday, April 25, 2026 • 8:00 PM
Dave Stryker
Buy Tickets
As the finale performance of the New Tampa Jazz Nights 2025-26 series, Tampa Jazz Club presents acclaimed guitarist Dave Stryker in a special performance that brings together two highly respected voices in jazz. Joining Stryker on tenor saxophone is Jack Wilkins, retired Director of Jazz Studies at the University of South Florida, whose long-standing contributions to jazz education and performance in Florida continue to resonate throughout the region.  Also on stage for this concert experience are USF's Mark Neuenschwander on bass, UCF's Per Danielsson on piano, and special guest McClenty Hunter (Dave's regular drummer for many years) on drums.
Dave Stryker is widely recognized for his distinctive tone, melodic approach, and deep connection to the soul-jazz tradition. Over the course of a prolific career, he has recorded nearly 40 albums as a leader, with an impressive run of seven consecutive releases reaching the No. 1 position on the JazzWeek radio chart. His work reflects both consistency and evolution, balancing straight-ahead jazz with elements of blues, groove, and contemporary influences.
A defining chapter in Stryker’s career was his decade-long tenure with legendary saxophonist Stanley Turrentine. That experience helped shape his phrasing, feel, and musical direction, grounding his style in a blues-infused, audience-connected approach that remains central to his performances today.
In addition to his work as a bandleader, Stryker has collaborated with a wide range of notable artists and continues to be an active presence on the international jazz scene. His live performances are known for their accessibility, rhythmic drive, and strong interplay between musicians—qualities that align well with the intimate and attentive listening environment of the New Tampa Jazz Nights series for this season finale show.
This concert offers an opportunity to hear two seasoned musicians in a setting that highlights both artistry and connection with the audience. For Tampa-area jazz listeners, it is a chance to experience a nationally recognized artist alongside a respected local figure, presented within a series that continues to bring high-quality jazz programming to the community.
Tampa Jazz Club members receive an automatic discount when purchasing with the email used for membership.
To become a member, click HERE.

Sneak peek into the 2026-27 Season - On sale soon!
July 1, 2026: Simon Lasky NYC Quintet
Sept 25 & 26, 2026: Chuck Owen & Jazz Surge
CONNECT WITH TAMPA JAZZ CLUB
TAMPA JAZZ CLUB WEBSITE
TAMPA JAZZ CLUB FACEBOOK
TAMPA JAZZ CLUB INSTAGRAM

The Tampa Jazz Club was incorporated as a nonprofit organization in 1995 with the objective of generating interest in preserving, understanding, and performing jazz.

Tampa Jazz Club logo
Jazz & Blues Florida — Support Local Music
~ ~ ~
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Friday, April 17, 2026

*LOW TIX ALERT* Tab Benoit + Samantha Fish - On a Collision Course for Dothan Alabama April 17, 2026

*LOW TIX ALERT* 
FLOOR LEVEL IS SOLD OUT!
ONLY 4 BALCONY SEATS AVAILABLE!
A COLLISION YOU WILL WANT TO BE IN!

 

Friday, April 17, 2026  Doors: 7p, Show: 8p CST
Dothan Opera House
115 N. St. Andrews St., Dothan, AL 36303
MAP |  WEBSITE

Catch blues-rock powerhouses Samantha Fish and Tab Benoit as their tours collide for one unforgettable night at the Dothan Opera House in Dothan, AL on April 17, 2026. Known for her explosive guitar work and soulful vocals, Fish brings fiery energy to the stage, while Benoit delivers his signature Louisiana blues with grit and heart. Together, these two dynamic performers promise a night of raw talent, high-octane performances, and electrifying chemistry that blues fans won’t want to miss.

About Tab Benoit
Tab Benoit is a Louisiana-born blues guitarist, singer, and songwriter whose swamp-blues sound embodies the heart and soul of the bayou. Raised in Houma, Louisiana, he grew up surrounded by Cajun, country, and blues influences that shaped his distinctive musical voice. Benoit began performing in Baton Rouge at the famed Blues Box Club, developing a raw, emotional playing style that became his signature. Since releasing his debut album Nice and Warm in 1992, he has earned multiple Blues Music Awards, Grammy nominations, and international acclaim for his passionate live performances and authentic Southern storytelling through music.

Benoit’s artistry extends beyond the stage — he is a dedicated environmental advocate who founded the nonprofit organization Voice of the Wetlands to raise awareness about the erosion of Louisiana’s coastal ecosystems. His efforts have been recognized nationally, including his role in the IMAX film Hurricane on the Bayou. With his fiery guitar tone, soulful vocals, and unwavering devotion to his home state, Tab Benoit continues to stand among the most respected figures in American roots and blues music.

About Samantha Fish
Samantha Fish is a powerhouse guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter from Kansas City, Missouri, known for her fearless blend of blues, rock, Americana, and soul. She began her musical journey on drums before switching to guitar as a teenager, immersing herself in local blues jams and quickly establishing a name for her explosive playing and dynamic stage presence. Her debut album Runaway earned her the 2012 Blues Music Award for Best New Artist, launching a global touring career that has seen her headline festivals and share stages with artists such as Buddy Guy, Devon Allman, and Tab Benoit.

Across albums including Wild Heart, Chills & Fever, Kill or Be Kind, Faster, and the acclaimed collaboration Death Wish Blues, Fish has continually evolved her sound while staying rooted in the emotional power of the blues. Her commanding performances combine expressive vocals, fiery guitar work, and a modern edge that have made her one of the most dynamic and influential artists of her generation.

About the Dothan Opera House
Built in 1915 and designed by the Atlanta architectural firm Morris & Morris, the Dothan Opera House was originally conceived to serve as both municipal offices and a performance auditorium. Over the years it has hosted plays, musicals, vaudeville shows, concerts, community ceremonies, and more. The Opera House was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1977 and underwent a major renovation completed in 2025, preserving its historic charm while adding modern performance enhancements. Located at 115 N. St. Andrews Street in downtown Dothan, it continues to serve as a cultural hub for regional arts and entertainment. Visitor information and performance schedules are available through Visit Dothan.

About Six String Southern Productions
Six String Southern Productions is an independent concert promoter and live event producer based in the Southeast. The company specializes in booking and presenting touring artists across multiple genres, as well as organizing events for private, corporate, and festival settings. As promoter, Six String Southern connects the Dothan Opera House with national and regional talent, helping bring exceptional live performances to audiences across the Wiregrass region.

Six String Southern Productions logo
~ ~ ~
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Thursday, April 16, 2026

*SOLD OUT* Jazz at Pinecrest Gardens Closes Another Super Season in a Big Way on April 18, 2026 with Nu Deco Ensemble

STAY TUNED TO JAZZ & BLUES FLORIDA FOR THE 2026-27 SEASON ANNOUNCEMENT COMING SOON!
Jazz at Pinecrest Gardens
Presents
 Nu Deco Ensemble - A Miami Original!
at
THE BANYAN BOWL
11000 Red Road, Pinecrest, FL 33156
MAP   WEBSITE  (305) 669-6990

SERIES FINALE PERFORMANCE!

Saturday, April 18, 2026
Miami’s Nu Deco Ensemble presents orchestral suites inspired by Nina Simone and Duke Ellington, reimagined with a contemporary approach.

Since its inception in 2015, Nu Deco Ensemble has become an important part of Miami’s musical scene, engaging the community and presenting genre-expanding orchestral performances and collaborations. Created by two of classical music’s in-demand artists, Jacomo Bairos and Sam Hyken, Nu Deco Ensemble is a flexible hybrid orchestra that celebrates living composers, reimagines music across genres, and collaborates with diverse musical guests, composers, choreographers, dancers, and mixed-media artists.

About Co-Founders of Nu Deco Ensemble

Jacomo Bairos
Portuguese-American conductor and producer Jacomo Bairos is Co-Founder and Artistic Director of Nu Deco Ensemble, known for reimagining orchestral music through genre-blending collaborations and community-focused programming. He regularly collaborates with leading orchestras including the Boston Pops and major U.S. symphonies, and has worked with artists such as Wyclef Jean, Jon Batiste, Jacob Collier, and Angélique Kidjo. A graduate of The Juilliard School and Peabody Institute, Bairos has performed worldwide with top ensembles and also integrates mindfulness and wellness practices into Nu Deco’s educational initiatives.

Sam Hyken
Sam Hyken, Co-Founder, Artistic Director, and CEO of Nu Deco Ensemble, is a Miami-based composer, arranger, and trumpeter with an international career. He has created music for a wide range of artists including Bad Bunny, Pitbull, Robert Glasper, and Cynthia Erivo, and his compositions have been commissioned and performed by major orchestras across the U.S. and abroad. A Juilliard graduate, Hyken has held positions with the Singapore Symphony Orchestra and New World Symphony, and previously served as Composer-in-Residence with the Miami Symphony Orchestra.

Jazz at Pinecrest Gardens 2026–2027 Season to be announced soon!
We extend our gratitude to our sponsors for their generosity and support: BMW of South Miami,  Steinway & Sons,  Miami-Dade County Cultural Affairs,  Panter, Panter, & Sampedro P.A.,  Village of Pinecrest,  WLRN, and  WDNA.

For more information:
Email: info@pinecrestgardens.org

Outside food, beverage or alcohol is not permitted.
Children not admitted without a guardian.
Event programming subject to change.

Pinecrest Gardens

~ ~ ~
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Wednesday, April 15, 2026

Christian McBride & Ursa Major Band Coming to The Moss Center Center Stage April 26, 2026 - Not To Be Missed!

2026 GRAMMY® Award Winner – Best Jazz Performance & Jazz Instrumental Album
Sunday, April 26, 2026 | 4:00–5:30 PM
Christian McBride
& Ursa Major Band
at the
DENNIS C. MOSS
CULTURAL ARTS CENTER
Main Stage
10950 SW 211th Street
Cutler Bay, FL 33189
MAP    WEBSITE   (786) 573-5300

Eleven-time GRAMMY® Award winner Christian McBride brings his Ursa Major ensemble to The Moss Center on April 26, 2026. The group features a lineup of emerging and established musicians performing a mix of swing, soul, and contemporary jazz.

Band Members:
Christian McBride – Bass
Michael King – Keys
Savannah Harris – Drums
Nicole Glover – Saxophone
Ely Perlman – Guitar

The Moss Center logo

The Dennis C. Moss Cultural Arts Center is managed by the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs, with support from the Office of the Miami-Dade County Mayor and Board of County Commissioners. The Center presents a range of cultural programming serving the South Miami-Dade community.
The facility complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Assistive listening devices are available in performance spaces. For accommodations, contact Stephanie Aponte at 786-573-5314 or saponte@miamidade.gov at least five days in advance. TTY users may call 711 (Florida Relay Service).
#JazzBluesFlorida #TheMossCenter #CutlerBay #MiamiJazz #LiveJazz #JazzConcert #JazzMusic #JazzInMiami
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Sunday, April 12, 2026

Thin Man Watts - Jazz Legend's Legacy Continues with 17th Annual Festival in Deland, FL April 25, 2026


“Thin Man” Watts Fest 
to Highlight Latin Jazz

Saturday, April 25, 2026 | Noon - 6p
Second Stage Theater,
600 N. Woodland Blvd.
DeLand, FL 32720

The 2026 “Thin Man” Watts Jazz Fest returns to Downtown DeLand on April 24–25, 2026, continuing its role as a cultural and community-centered event honoring the life and legacy of Florida saxophonist Noble “Thin Man” Watts. Established in 2011, the festival serves as a primary fundraiser for the African American Museum of the Arts (AAMA), supporting its ongoing mission to preserve and present African American art and history in the region.

The festival begins Friday evening, April 24, with a kickoff jazz performance at Abbey Bar in Downtown DeLand (MAP) from 8:00 to 11:00 PM. Saturday’s main event takes place at Stetson University’s Second Stage Theater, where four featured musical acts will perform throughout the day. Poetry presentations by Exodus United, a Central Florida nonprofit serving at-risk youth through arts and education, will be interwoven between performances.

Ticket holders receive admission to all four Saturday performances. The lineup opens at 12:00 PM with the Sal Martinez Trio, featuring pianist Sal Martinez performing jazz standards ranging from bebop to jazz fusion. At 1:30 PM, The Eighth Note Collective, led by trombonist Derrick Harris, brings a blend of traditional jazz, soul, funk, R&B, and Latin influences. At 3:00 PM, Ella and the Bossa Beat—featuring pianist and vocalist Ella Blu alongside Grammy-nominated drummer and producer Magrus Borges—present a mix of contemporary jazz, soul, and Brazilian bossa nova. The festival concludes with a 4:30 PM performance by Puerto Rican percussionist Dimas Sanchez and his Afro Latin Jazz Project, highlighting Afro-Caribbean rhythms and Latin jazz traditions.

Additional festival elements include on-site food vendors offering a range of options, including soul food and vegan selections from Golden Meals, along with refreshments from the African American Museum of the Arts. Festival merchandise will also be available, including T-shirts and posters.

Noble “Thin Man” Watts was a commanding tenor saxophonist whose career bridged the formative years of rhythm and blues and the evolving soul-blues circuit that followed. Born in DeLand, Florida in 1926, Watts developed his sound during the post-war era, performing with early R&B pioneers and contributing to the touring band of Chuck Willis. His playing combined a strong, honking sax tone with melodic phrasing that made him both a bandleader and a sought-after sideman. Over the decades, he worked with a wide range of artists (Bo Diddley, Lionel Hampton, Paul "Hucklebuck" Williams, Dinah Washington, Jerry Lee Lewis, Buddy Holly, Chuck Berry, the Everly Brothers, and others) and maintained a reputation for energetic live performances rooted in the classic jump blues tradition.

Watts’ Florida roots remained central throughout his life and career. He was born in Deland and later spent many years based in Jacksonville and then Tampa, where he became a familiar and respected figure in the state’s blues community. Regular appearances at clubs, festivals, and regional events helped connect generations of musicians and audiences across Florida. His continued presence on the circuit well into his later years reflected both his dedication to live performance and his role in sustaining the state’s jazz and blues heritage.

All proceeds from the 2026 festival support the African American Museum of the Arts in DeLand, which recently completed a 3,500-square-foot expansion of its facility at 325 S. Clara Avenue. The event is made possible through the support of community sponsors and partners, including Judy Thompson, HapCo Music Youth Arts, Kemp Realty Group, Boulevard Tire Center, AdventHealth DeLand, Ken Goldberg Construction Co. LLC, Mainstreet Community Bank, Self-Help Credit Union, Run 4 a Cause, and others, along with in-kind support from Stetson University and local organizations.

The “Thin Man” Watts Jazz Fest continues to connect audiences with live jazz while honoring a Florida artist whose career and influence remain an important part of the state’s musical history and future.

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Jazz & Blues Florida Distribution Quick Report As of April 12, 2026

JAZZ & BLUES FLORIDA
Quick Report
April 12, 2026

This report provides a concise overview of Jazz & Blues Florida promotional distribution.

Promotion is delivered across the Jazz & Blues Florida network of combined connections exceeding 49,000 through:

  • Social media channels (28,000+ followers)*
  • Managed Facebook groups (24,000+ members)**
  • Jazz & Blues Florida News Blog (7,471 posts with 4,081,457 views)
  • Email distribution (4,041 opt-in subscribers)

Additional visibility is generated through Facebook boosted post placements funded by both the client and Jazz & Blues Florida.

Attribution Reporting

Jazz & Blues Florida provides tracking-enabled links to support accurate source attribution. Access to performance data, including clicks, traffic, and ticket sales, depends on the client’s analytics and ticketing platform configuration.

Accessing JBF Services:
https://www.jazzbluesflorida.com/rate-sheet

More About JBF:
https://www.jazzbluesflorida.com/jbf-about

*Social Media Account Connections

FB Personal Page Friends and Followers (vetted): 7,463
FB JBF Page Followers: 11,033
LinkedIn Connections (vetted): 3,782
Instagram Followers: 4,691
YouTube Subscribers: 1,377

**Facebook Groups Administered

Includes administrative posting features such as pinned client posts.

South Florida Live Music & Entertainment Source
12,254 Members
https://www.facebook.com/groups/sflmes

Jacksonville Musicians Official Group
4,409 Members
https://www.facebook.com/groups/246048365409126

Blues News & New Blues
3,633 Members
https://www.facebook.com/groups/183200855084100

Best Blues Group – Let’s see what you’ve got!!
3,737 Members
https://www.facebook.com/groups/bestbluesgroup

Footnotes

Blog view totals reflect all recorded traffic, including human readers, search engine indexing, and automated systems. This activity supports broader distribution by making content discoverable across search platforms and external channels.

This report is designed to provide a clear, high-level overview of Jazz & Blues Florida’s promotional reach and distribution. The scale of these metrics reflects targeted audience access that typically exceeds what individual artists or venues maintain independently, particularly within this niche jazz and blues market. More detailed performance data or campaign-specific insights are available upon request on a per-client basis.

Distributed by:
Jazz & Blues Florida
JazzBluesFlorida.com
(561) 313-7432 WhatsApp Text Only Please
#JazzBluesFlorida #Jazz #Blues #Clubs #Concerts #Festivals
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