Southern Avenue

Southern Avenue, the Blues Music Award-winning, GRAMMY-nominated Memphis-based family band, plays original Memphis blues, modern soul, and gospel-infused roots music that is uplifting and timeless. They are known worldwide for their inclusive, message-driven songs fueled by hard-hitting grooves and electrifying guitar. The band’s new album, "Family", makes it clear that Southern Avenue creates musical storytelling magic. The band is unlike any other on the scene today, featuring lead vocalist/songwriter Tierinii Jackson, her husband, guitarist/songwriter Ori Naftaly, and her sisters, drummer/vocalist/songwriter Tikyra “T.K.” Jackson and percussionist/violinist/vocalist Ava Jackson. “Through our music,” says Naftaly, “we expand our family to include our fans and whomever is moved by our songs.” The inspiring harmonies of the church-raised Jackson sisters are fueled by guitarist Naftaly, whose passion for blues and soul music led him to Memphis from his birthplace in Israel. Together, Southern Avenue blends the city’s musical traditions with their own thoroughly modern worldview. Their authentic and unfiltered original songs are a bold step in defining the future of Memphis music. They are among the most musically riveting and visually exciting live bands, and are among the few “must see” acts on the scene today. Jambase.com states, “Southern Avenue is jaw-dropping. They are not to be missed.” Southern Avenue Live Video

On "Family", Southern Avenue’s fourth album, and their first for Alligator Records, the band unleashes one memorable performance after another, all delivered with soul-healing power and fueled by warm sister harmonies, Naftaly’s deeply rooted guitar playing and T.K.’s forceful, propulsive drumming. From triumphant opener Long Is The Road to the emotionally resonant Found A Friend In You to the raucous Rum Boogie, the songs, with their seamless blend of roots, blues and soul grooves, are stirring and original. From the irresistible Upside to the fierce determination of Flying to the closing, ruminative We Are, Family unveils honest, universal truths about the unshakable power of togetherness.

Big Jon Short

Big Jon Short will open the evening at 7pm with his unique brand of acoustic blues. A Massachusetts-based blues performer known for high-energy solo shows featuring foot percussion, National Reso-phonic guitar, and a Lowebow cigar-box reso-hillharp. He plays 150–200 shows annually, covering country blues, Mississippi Delta styles, and original music at venues ranging from New England to Mississippi. Big Jon Short Live Video