Prior to buying youre Jazz tickets, decide to make the Blues Fest a weekend trip with family and/or friends and visit BLUE RIDGE FOR RENT to discover your Cabin Rentals in Boone NC and Blue Ridge Mountain Cabin Rentals. For the best in NC Mountain Cabin Rentals and North Carolina Mountain Cabins For Rent, turn to the professionals at BLUE RIDGE FOR RENT.

Top Blues Artists Headline New River Blues Fest September 5

Story by Anne Baker

Taj Mahal called him “one of the best kept secrets in roots music.” Sammy Blue will be one of the headliners at the 8th annual New River Blues Festival at the River House Inn in Jefferson.

With blues music having gained its place in American music history, the performers that carry on the tradition are some of the most loyal to their style of music that can be found in today’s market. They spread their version of Americana throughout the world and touch something deep in those listening with their soulful tunes and haunting melodies. On Sunday, September 5, some of those artists will share their talent and passion with the High Country at the New River Blues Festival. Moving to a new location at River House Inn on the banks of the New River, this year’s lineup of talent for the event’s eighth anniversary is being touted by promoters as “one of our best yet.”

Tickets are $12 in advance and $15 at the gate, and children 12 and under are free. The gates will open at noon, music runs from 1:00 to 6:00 pm. and food and drink will be served during the day.

Included among the performers are Sammy Blue, Drink Small, Shrimp City Slim, Juke Joint Johnny, Ike and Val Woods and the King Bees Blues Revue.

Blue, a Georgia bluesman, has been living the blues since he was a child. Inspired by such blues legends as Buddy Moss and Curly Weaver, Blue has perfected his style of blues music that reflects the essence of Robert Johnson and other masters.

Having spent time among the Chicago blues elite, Blue has shared his edgy guitar work and fiery vocals with such greats as Otis Rush and Muddy Waters, who labeled him “The Crown Prince of the Blues.” Legendary musician Taj Mahal said, “Sammy Blue of Atlanta is one of the best kept secrets in roots music.” Blue has been honored by his home state by being enshrined in the Georgia Hall of Fame.

Small is another Hall of Fame honoree, having been inducted in his home state of South Carolina. At the age of 77, Small is still going strong. Playing at shows across the country, including such events as the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and the Smithsonian Folklife Fest, Small still keeps the toes tapping and hands clapping to his brand of Carolina blues. Earthy guitar and growling vocals highlight this legend’s portfolio, a truly unique personality.

River House Inn is lending its riverfront property to this year’s festival and is located just off Highway 16 north of Jefferson. Bring a chair or blanket, and no coolers or pets will be permitted.

This year’s sponsors for are River House Inn, Hampton Inn, WETS-FM 89.5, High Country Press and The Mountain Times.

Advance tickets can be purchased online through September 2 at www.thecelticforce.com/tickets.

For more information, call 336-499-9733 or click to www.newriverbluesfestival.info.