As a teenager in the early ‘90s growing up in the muddy potato fields of Idaho, John Németh was drawn to the hard-edged hip hop sounds and rock bands of the day, until a friend, Tom Moore, introduced him to the Junior Wells and Buddy Guy classic “Hoodoo Man Blues.” ... Together they formed Fat John and the 3 Slims, which is still regarded as a legendary band in the Boise region. John played harp and sang in local bands, often opening the show for nationally touring blues acts and quickly caught the ear of established blues musicians. It didn’t take long before he was releasing his own recordings, “The Jack Of Harps” (2002) and “Come And Get It” (2004), featuring Junior Watson, and performing in Junior Watson’s band.

John relocated to San Francisco in 2004, where he had the bitter-sweet good fortune to undertake a two-year stint with Anson Funderburgh and the Rockets, filling in for the ailing Sam Myers. Németh immersed himself in the deep musical waters of the Bay area, absorbing more of the soul and funk grooves of what he calls “the early East Bay Grease sound” of San Francisco and Oakland bands.

John’s talents did not go unnoticed and he soon signed a recording contract with Blind Pig Records. His national debut for that label, “Magic Touch” (2007), produced by Anson Funderburgh and featuring Junior Watson on guitar, received an ecstatic response from fans and the media, and he was hailed as the new voice of the blues. Living Blues enthused, “Magic Touch gives hope that the blues will survive.” In 2008 Németh was recruited by Elvin Bishop to do some performances and contribute four vocal tracks to his Grammy-nominated album “The Blues Rolls On.”

Németh released two more albums on the Blind Pig label, “Love Me Tonight” (2009) and “Name The Day (2010), both hitting #6 on the Billboard Blues Chart, and beginning his long string of Blues Music Award (BMA) nominations, numbering 20 at last count. John has also won two Blues Blast Music Awards – Best New Artist Debut Recording and Sean Costello Rising Star Award. John followed up with two independently released live albums in 2012, “Blues Live” and “Soul Live.”

In 2013 John relocated to Memphis, Tennessee, where he teamed up with producer Scott Bomar and his classic Memphis Soul band, the Bo-Keys, to create an album of revisited soul classics, “Memphis Grease” (2014 Blue Corn), which debuted at #4 on the Billboard Blues Chart. John won the 2104 BMA for Best Soul Blues Male Artist, followed by “Memphis Grease” winning Best Soul Blues Album in 2015.

In 2017 Németh released “Feelin’ Freaky” (produced by Luther Dickinson) on his own Memphis Grease label, crushing all barriers of style and genre with an album of original songs that defied all the usual pigeonholes, drawing from his strong influences in blues and RandB, as well as contemporary sounds in hip hop and rock ‘n’ roll. Later that same year, Németh was part of a side project “The Love Light Orchestra Featuring John Németh” recorded live at one of Memphis’ favorite watering holes, Bar DKDC. The 10-piece band was initially envisioned by guitarist Joe Restivo, vocalist John Németh and arranger/trumpeter Marc Franklin.

Németh returned to Electraphonic in December of 2019 with his seasoned road band of young gun players, The Blue Dreamers, featuring 19 year-old guitar phenom from Philadelphia, Jon Hay, drummer Danny Banks and Matt Wilson on bass for a rowdy southern swamp roots session resulting in his 10th album, “Stronger Than Strong” demonstrating, yet again, his uncanny ability to skillfully blend retro and modern blues and soul into compelling music that is simultaneously old and new.

https://johnnemeth.com/

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International Recording Artist Drivetime has become recognized around the world with back-to-back singles and CD’s for over fifteen years. ... Now at the pinnacle of their careers they are forging ahead to discover more about themselves and their music. Drivetime has been in rotation on Internet and terrestrial radio since Drivetime’s break out single Getin’ Witit 2009 featuring Smooth Jazz Artist Bob Baldwin. In 2012 released What You Won't Do For Love featuring Justin Guarini and again in 2012 with their single Lincoln Drive featuring Andrew Neu on Saxophone. Drivetime style is very hard to define so they just call it Urban Organic Jazz. It incorporates Jazz, Nu Jazz, Fusion, Funk, Latin and all shades in between. One of the most electrifying bands live to come out of Philly on a very long time, the current line up includes Bernie Capodici on Percussion and Conga, Gene Terramani on Guitar, Jimmy Dell'Orefice on Piano/Keyboards, Nick Terramani on Bass and JJ Zeller on Drums. Touting the success of the Mysterious Life and California Dreamin' CD's, Drivetime's release of their single “Whispers” became the #1 most added track in February 9, 2016 on the Billboard Jazz Charts the day after its release. Drivetime has released their new single Un Domani Migliore co-produced by Michael B. Sutton (Motown Alum) a melodically soulful and rhythmic ride as only Drivetime can deliver. So buckle up and enjoy the ride!

https://drivetimeuoj.com/

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Akeylah Simone, from Hampton Roads, VA is just getting her feet wet as a singer, songwriter, and now recording artist.... In just her first two years of releasing original music, she’s landed 4 songs on the Grammy Ballot and voted Encore’s 2021 Best Solo Artist. She was most recently voted ISSA’s 2022 Female Rising Star and Veer Magazine 2022 Best R and B/ Soul Artist. She’s also had numerous nominations across various publications including Best New Artist (Soul Tracks Reader’s Choice Awards,) and Song of the Year and Best R and B/ Soul (Veer Awards.) While she has been singing and performing since her first time on stage at an elementary school talent contest, and frequenting many stages with her dad, Bobby Blackhat, over the past 10 years… she has spent this past year focusing on performing her own original music all over including festivals, award shows, clubs and private events. Her love for music is deeply rooted in her upbringing. Raised by two musicians, Akeylah, developed a passion for singing and music exploration early on. She always knew she would be a performer and that she would pursue a life on stage. She was so certain by age 7, she was practicing her Bruce Hornsby set in her room every night--just to be ready. She is sure to get up on stage with her dad, Bobby Blackhat as often possible. She has also been featured on a few of his albums singing back-up vocals, solos and even her own cover of “Fever” with her younger sister.

Music has always been her outlet for dealing with all things “life,” and that inspired her to create a series of “Therapy Sessions.” These consisted of hours of creating, singing, and sharing her best moments with her family and friends through social media. The feedback and encouragement motivated Akeylah to revisit some of her original work. She has now released a diverse catalogue, including a self-titled EP. She has opened up her personal journey to the world and her vocals will surely let you know where she’s headed.

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Jamey's is one of the longest running blues jams in the region, as well as the #1 original Sunday Blues Brunch and Jam..... Blues lovers and players know that this is THE place to come for some really indescribably delicious all-day breakfast cooked to order by Chef Suyun, a dozen thirst-quenching ice-cold beers on tap from Conshohocken Brewing Company as well as wines and mixed drinks, fresh ground coffee and espressos, superb live blues music, great service and friendly people. The vibe is home-like and cool, and the sound is second to none.

Jamey's provides a full professional grade backline, so players only need to bring their instrument to jump up on stage and jam.

The open mic jam runs from 1 pm to 3 pm, and the host band lays down a set from noon to 1 pm to get things rolling and then supports guest jammers as needed. The always rocking SUNDAY BLUES BRUNCH rocks a HAPPY HOUR from noon to 1pm. Featuring two bucks off draft beers and hard ciders, and a dollar off wines and mixed drinks, and a 10% discount on all menu items!

Admission is 100% free! Plus, it is wheelchair accessible, and has plenty of free local parking. Being right in the center of downtown Lansdowne, next to the train station, there is abundant public transportation as well.

Blues lovers new and old can come to play, eat, drink, chat and enjoy a day soaked in the blues. Guests also like to host gatherings or parties during the brunch, as there are tables and chairs for dining in our stage side Little Art Gallery, and comfortable seats to listen to the music - and it does not cost them a thing to meet up there! No reservations are needed. Just load up some friends and head on down!

https://www.phillyblueskings.com

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Like a slow cooked gumbo, sometimes it takes some time for the taste to become sublime.... The same may be said for these five gentlemen who have combined decades of playing in other groups into a stew of blues cooked to perfection Five veteran bluesmen with long and storied careers playing America's original musical artform as handed down through the years by the black men and women whose lives were shaped by tribulation and hardship in the American south, largely at the hands of slavery, and refined and electrified in the big citys up north after emancipation. Long is the list of greats who formed and influenced these gentlemen today, and fortuitous circumstance brought them together while performing at Jamey's House of Music in Lansdowne PA, where they played with other well known blues acts.

AC Steel and the Perpetrators will take the stage at 8pm for two hours of kicking original songs and favorite standards with Perp signature arrangements. Occasional select guests will also be invited to sit it.

AC Steel (Steve Solotist) is one of America's preeminent blues players, who cut his teeth performing overseas during the British blues invasion in the early 70's. What do guitar legends Peter Green, Bernie Marsden and Michel Schenker have in common with Steve?

Bernie Marsden and Michel Schenker were the guitarists to join UFO after Steve won the audition but passed on the position due to another commitment. Peter Green joined the Brunning Hall Band with former Fleetwood Mac bassist Bob Brunning and Savoy Brown pianist Bob Hall, some years after Steve left that band.

Back in the USA, Steve's own band Stockyard opened for the Allman Brothers, Chicago, Humble Pie, Pink Floyd, Savoy Brown, Mott the Hoople (where Steve was practically a member) and many others.

During his many years with Philadelphia's oldest blues band, the Dukes of Destiny, Steve shared the stage with nearly every big name blues outfit in existence. It was at Jamey's House of Music, where Steve played and sang with the Philly Blues Kings and the Girke-Davis Project, that he subsequently joined with core players from both bands to form his latest effort, AC Steel and the Perpetrators. The Perpetrators features seasoned bluesmen Jamey Reilly on bass, Glenn Bickel on keyboards and vocals, Frank McKitty on tenor sax and Paul Albrecht on drums. AC Steel and the Perpetrators takes inspiration from many of the artists that Steve rubbed shoulders with, and reinterprets many old standards and brings out new and original compositions.

Saxophonist Frank McKitty grew up in Queens, NY. After receiving a Bachelor Music, Saxophone and Flute in New Orleans, Frank returned to New York where, while working as a teamster and later in Special Markets and AP/AR for New Line Home Video during the day, had the opportunity to work with groups including, The Lynn Oliver Orchestra, The Stan Rubin Orchestra, Los Tremendos de Colombia, Los Chevres de Columbia, Las Chicas and other latin and jazz groups in addition to his own small group.

Frank’s performance experience includes venues; Birdland, the Iridium, the Kat Club, the DuPont/Clifford Brown Jazz Festival, Chris’ Jazz Cafe and the premiere of an original composition at Merkin Hall, New York.

Since relocating to the Philadelphia area, Frank has been active in the Blues scene working freelance and as a regular with “Kitty Mayo and Venom Blues” appearing on their new release “Jamland” (2024) and being inducted into the Delaware Rock and Roll Society Hall of Fame in 2023. Additionally, until 2020, Frank was teaching Saxophone, Flute, Clarinet and Oboe privately. In 2023 Frank released his self-produced album “Praxis” available on all of your favorite streaming services.

Glenn Bickel is a veteran of the piano and Hammond organ, as a respected keyboardist with numerous blues artists over many years on stage and in the recording studio.

Glenn is a founding member of Leroy Hawkes and the Hipnotics, opening act to John Lee Hooker, Robert Cray, The Commitments, Fabulous Thunderbirds, Gladys Knight and the Pips, and Chris Cain. Glenn was a part-time member of Chris Cain's band and was house keyboardist for Randy Lippincott at Warmdaddy's for 7 years.

He is father to two talented musicians, The Bickel Brothers who follow him in the music tradition, and is a software developer who enjoys fine woodworking in his spare time.

Drummer Paul Albrecht, a lifelong Philadelphia-area resident, has been performing professionally since he was 15. He has a long, diverse professional background in American music styles, primarily rock, pop, blues, and jazz. He attended Berklee College Of Music(1973-74), studying with legendary jazz drummer Alan Dawson, then continued his studies locally with Nick Moffo. Throughout the 1970s and 80s, Paul performed extensively in the Tri-State area with many groups, playing rock,Top 40, disco, country ,new wave-the popular styles of the time, and played with Philly jazz legends The Visitors(Earl and Carl Grubbs) for a brief period.

In 1986, Paul began a steady gig with legendary Philadelphia-based jazz virtuoso multi-instrumentalist/vocalist Bruce Mills. Mr. Mills’group was the house band at Jewel’s, playing opening and intermissions for many national and international jazz artists.The group then became the house band at Sterling’s Place,performing 3-4 nights a week until Mr. Mills’ passing in 1989. Philly jazz legends Jymie Merritt(bass) and Eddie McFadden(guitar), among others, were members of the group for a period.

During this period Paul also began his own jazz group, which he led until 2006 .He featured many notable Philadelphia jazz artists, including Dylan Taylor, Chuck Taylor, Bill Zinno,Tim Price, Paul Gehman, Denise Montana, Mark Kramer, Kenny Kellem, Cliff Kellem, Frank Cook ,Joe Stevenson, Ed Crockett, Rich Budesa, and John Ellis, among others.As well as restaurant,club, and private work, the group also performed at the Berks Jazz Fest, the Clifford Brown Jazz Festival, the Peco Energy Jazz Festival,The Philadelphia Free Library, and the Pennsylvania Academy Of The Fine Arts. The 1990s also saw Paul doing plenty of rock ,blues, oldies, and private engagements with many area groups, including a stint with blues diva Deb Callahan.

Bassist Jamey Reilly was trained on accordian, piano and guitar at a young age, and has held down the low end since 1965 when he joined the pop group, "The Abstract Design." He has been an avowed blues lover since 1970 when he did a stint with legendary bluesman John Lee Hooker, and tried to coax Son House out of retirement. It was a reunion performance at Boston's Fenway Theatre that Jamey pulled together, with Paul Butterfield and Mike Bloomfield that cemented his life long addiction to the blues.

Jamey has done gigging around the east coast and has backed some well known national blues names. His playing can be found on a number of CDs by various artists. He spent several decades in numerous roles in the professional audio engineering and live music industry. He pursued a degree in Physical Therapy after two separate accidents with a car and a power saw left his right hand partially paralyzed.

After spending many years on the road and living in various parts of the country, he finally set down roots in Philadelphia and joined the vibrant Philly music scene. Jamey opened the popular Jamey's House of Music, Livehouse, restaurant and bar in Lansdowne PA.

Jamey enjoys an old-school pocket-playing style with melodic embellishments, and provides a solid bottom to the music on his 5 string bass. He fell in love with the low end while growing up listening to the great bass players of the '50's on his parents hi-fi, and spent a life-time seeking the holy grail of flawless bass reproduction during his many years in pro-audio. An hour long BLUES DELUXE interview may be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zm3hjBigBGg.

https://www.acsteelperps.com/

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Veteran Philadelphia area musician and songwriter Drew Shanefield brings his unique and eclectic catalog of music to Jamey’s House of Music.... This collection of songs, curiously named Vernon Papers, encompasses much of Drew’s musical output from the last few years.

“I think VP started as a way to create an alternative persona, one that’s for me, devoid of history and expectation. Vernon Papers began as a collection of home recordings. As a result, much of the ego is gone, dismissing excuses and the need for perfection. The only need is to be genuine and search for musical truth.”

On stage, Drew’s Vernon Papers experience is largely a solo one. An acoustic, an electric and a notebook full of musings. The sound at times can be raw and from the depths, and at other times vulnerable and thoughtful. Always from the heart and the gut.

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CubiZm is Heidi Wolfson, Art Cohen, Steve Lessick and Neal Phillips. CubiZm’s original folk/rock music spans a wide range from shimmering atmospheres to driving grooves to melodic harmonies to abstract spoken word pieces. ... Acoustic and electric guitars, drums and vocal harmonies blend together to showcase the freshness and originality of the writing. Heidi Wolfson's songs are thought-provoking and literate, and she delivers them with a singular intensity. Guitarist Art Cohen, better known in international space-music circles, adds texture, edge and hang-on-to-your-seat leads. Steve Lessick's tasteful drumming and beautiful vocal harmonies smooth out the sound with polish. Neal Phillips adds extraordinary acoustic guitar work and driving bass. From a whisper to a roar, the music of CubiZm is always compelling. CubiZm has performed at The Philadelphia Folk Festival, and regularly plays Philadelphia, Montgomery County, and Delaware County venues, including The Fallser Club in Phila., The Royal and The Keswick Annex in Glenside and The War3house in Swarthmore. Excited to add Jamey’s House of Music to our hangouts!

Kathy Quinn is a Philadelphia-area songwriter, guitarist, and performer. She is a member of the Philadelphia Folksong Society and the Philadelphia Area Songwriters’ Alliance. In 2025, she released her debut album, “Next 7 Miles”, a stylistically diverse, lyrically honest collection of original songs that travel long emotional roads, through daydreams and heartbreaks. She is influenced by many musical styles from the Mills Brothers to the Grateful Dead, and she brings her background in theater and improv to her performances. She frequently appears with MAC vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Steve Lessick.

https://www.cubizm11.com

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Jamey's is one of the longest running blues jams in the region, as well as the #1 original Sunday Blues Brunch and Jam..... Blues lovers and players know that this is THE place to come for some really indescribably delicious all-day breakfast cooked to order by Chef Suyun, a dozen thirst-quenching ice-cold beers on tap from Conshohocken Brewing Company as well as wines and mixed drinks, fresh ground coffee and espressos, superb live blues music, great service and friendly people. The vibe is home-like and cool, and the sound is second to none.

Jamey's provides a full professional grade backline, so players only need to bring their instrument to jump up on stage and jam.

The open mic jam runs from 1 pm to 3 pm, and the host band lays down a set from noon to 1 pm to get things rolling and then supports guest jammers as needed. The always rocking SUNDAY BLUES BRUNCH rocks a HAPPY HOUR from noon to 1pm. Featuring two bucks off draft beers and hard ciders, and a dollar off wines and mixed drinks, and a 10% discount on all menu items!

Admission is 100% free! Plus, it is wheelchair accessible, and has plenty of free local parking. Being right in the center of downtown Lansdowne, next to the train station, there is abundant public transportation as well.

Blues lovers new and old can come to play, eat, drink, chat and enjoy a day soaked in the blues. Guests also like to host gatherings or parties during the brunch, as there are tables and chairs for dining in our stage side Little Art Gallery, and comfortable seats to listen to the music - and it does not cost them a thing to meet up there! No reservations are needed. Just load up some friends and head on down!

https://www.phillyblueskings.com

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From the mean streets of Chester to the best stages in the region comes this husky voiced diva.... Khadijah “Renee” is a Jazz Songstress in the vein of the Great Ladies of Jazz.

Her resonant tones remind you of the ladies who paved their way through the male dominated syncopated instrumental ingenious sounds of Be-Bop and Classical Jazz from as early as the 1950′s. If you close your eyes while listening to her, you may hear reminiscent echoes of Sarah, Ella, Billie, Nancy, Dinah and Gloria.

Khadijah is a contralto whose range is deep and sweet at the same time. She has been performing Jazz since the late 80′s in and around the Tri-State area. Khadijah is always accompanied by the best musicians the area has to offer. She has been recorded live at the East Coast Jazz Festival now called the Mid-Atlantic Jazz Festival in Maryland and heard on WRTI 90.1 Jazz Radio.

https://khadijahrenee.com/#music

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Tommy Alvarado has been writing and producing his original material starting in 2024.... Having been regarded as the perfect sideman Tommy has performed , toured or recorded with several high profile artists. He now fronts his own group of top notch players, which perform as the Jazzmen.

Some of Tommy's associations include: Australia's Human Nature, BoyZ2men, Wayne Brady, Joe Cocker, Frankie Valli, Barry White, El Chicano,The Coasters, James Brown, Evelyn Champagne King, The Village People, Anita Ward, and Peaches and Herb.

Being a very versatile musician, he is equally at home with Jazz, Pop, Latin, Rock 'n' Roll Motown and RandB. Tenor sax, alto sax and baritone sax are his horns of choice.

He is the perfect showman, singing background, blowing sax solos and playing percussion.

He endorses a variety of musical products. Mainly Weisenburg Custom Shop Tenor sax, GTsax, Silverstein Works ligatures, Tycoon Percussion, Neotech Straps.

https://tommyalvarado.com/

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Mississippi Delta blues has it's own style. Hypnotic driving beats with repetitious vocal lines harken back to the west African roots of the form... Lonnie shields is at the forefront of the current crop of authentic players to carry on the tradition. Acknowledged as a young master by the elder keepers of the flame, he is powerfully mesmerizing in concert. Since moving north, he has gathered an ace band of top sidemen to back him and carry the music forward.

Lonnie Shields is truly one of the finest of the next generation of the blues. He cut his blues teeth performing with The Jelly Roll Kings. His recording career has led him through a number of studios from Memphis and Clarksdale to tours all over the world. This Delta born guitarist, singer and songwriter's style is just the opposite of his demeanor. Lonnie comes across as a mild mannered southern gentleman with a laid back nature. On stage he is transformed into an extraordinary entertainer moving to his music and feeding off the energy of the audience. His music is deeply rooted in gospel, soul and RandB while his sound, like his soul is never too far from the home of the blues.

Lonnie was the first Delta artist that Rooster blues picked up after moving to Clarksdale, Mississippi in 1987. His CD “Portrait” was released in 1992 (named Album of the Year by Living Blues Magazine) and reads like a who’s who of Delta Blues Performers. Over the years, Lonnie has played with many Blues greats including Elvin Bishop, Sam Carr, Sonny Rhodes, Eddie Shaw and Big Jack Johnson just to name a few. In the years following his release of “Portrait” Lonnie’s career skyrocketed. He has performed all over the world and has released a string of impressive CDs featuring his soulful, “down home Blues” with a contemporary, yet juke-joint feel.

Lonnie’s hard work has paid in a fine compilation of music and a reputation of a man with the heart and soul of the Blues. Lonnie now resides just outside of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania but always has and always will be the Keeper of The Blues wherever he lays his guitar.

https://lonnieshields.com/

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Jamey's is one of the longest running blues jams in the region, as well as the #1 original Sunday Blues Brunch and Jam..... Blues lovers and players know that this is THE place to come for some really indescribably delicious all-day breakfast cooked to order by Chef Suyun, a dozen thirst-quenching ice-cold beers on tap from Conshohocken Brewing Company as well as wines and mixed drinks, fresh ground coffee and espressos, superb live blues music, great service and friendly people. The vibe is home-like and cool, and the sound is second to none.

Jamey's provides a full professional grade backline, so players only need to bring their instrument to jump up on stage and jam.

The open mic jam runs from 1 pm to 3 pm, and the host band lays down a set from noon to 1 pm to get things rolling and then supports guest jammers as needed. The always rocking SUNDAY BLUES BRUNCH rocks a HAPPY HOUR from noon to 1pm. Featuring two bucks off draft beers and hard ciders, and a dollar off wines and mixed drinks, and a 10% discount on all menu items!

Admission is 100% free! Plus, it is wheelchair accessible, and has plenty of free local parking. Being right in the center of downtown Lansdowne, next to the train station, there is abundant public transportation as well.

Blues lovers new and old can come to play, eat, drink, chat and enjoy a day soaked in the blues. Guests also like to host gatherings or parties during the brunch, as there are tables and chairs for dining in our stage side Little Art Gallery, and comfortable seats to listen to the music - and it does not cost them a thing to meet up there! No reservations are needed. Just load up some friends and head on down!

https://www.phillyblueskings.com

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Singer-songwriter Kate Gaffney honed her skills in her native Philadelphia, jumped from coast to coast, and laid musical roots in Northern California. Pennsylvania has since called her back home.... Kate has been a blur of creativity since coming home, with becoming a Philadelphia Folksong Society board member, joining the fabulous Philly Blues Kings, performing at numerous venues, running an open-mic at Poppy's Tavern, and now launching Kate Gaffney's Corner every second Thursday at Jamey's to feature her own great body of work, welcome guest artists from Philly's vibrant music community, and host an open-mic on many nights.

With influences ranging from Tom Waits to Planxty, John Byrne's songwriting honors and expands upon the musical and lyrical Americana and Celtic Folk music traditions of his native and adopted homes.

"He's good, period, with material that's edgy yet accessible in a Luka Bloom meets Bob Dylan kind of way." Philadelphia Daily News

Byrne's songs are rich with the sounds and themes of Irish tradition, one that survives in a modern world...full of "raw strength"... an impressive work throughout... puts me in mind of an Irish Alejandro Escavedo" Sing Out Magazine

“There’s something about Kate…something a little 80’s, a little 90’s, with a touch of the modern day, all steeped in the Summer of Love. You get a feeling, when you listen to Kate, that she understands the blues, but serves as a muse to keep the blues away. She’s a songwriter who songwriters write songs about. Watching her perform is somehow comforting and her honest vulnerability lends a welcome tone to her concerts. She has found a nice rapport with her audience and is one of the few performers with whom I welcome the banter. Kate is both disarming and razor sharp at the same time.” - Aaron Redner, musician/writer

Singer-songwriter Kate Gaffney honed her skills in her native Philadelphia, jumped from coast to coast and toured everywhere in between. She laid musical roots in Northern California, building a loyal following in Sacramento and within the San Francisco Bay Area music community. Pennsylvania has since called her back home. Gaffney’s festival nods include Philadelphia Folk Festival, High Sierra Music Festival, Hardly Strictly Bluegrass and Hangtown Music Festival. She has opened for a variety of touring acts including Richie Havens, Todd Snider, Xavier Rudd, Chris Smither, Carolyn Wonderland, Jackie Greene, Karl Denson, Kaki King, Elephant Revival, and Dead Winter Carpenters. Kate Gaffney has released four albums: Highways, The New Then, The Coachman, Here by the Ocean.

https://kategaffney.com/

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The Peace Creeps is the current musical project featuring former A’s captivating frontman Richard Bush.... Richard and his A’s were the darlings of Philly in the ‘70s and early ‘80s and had the hits “After Last Night” and “A Woman’s Got The Power”, which was later recorded by both Clarence Clemons and Jennifer Holliday. They released two albums on Arista Records and toured nationally, but they disbanded due to disputes with their record company. After that Bush had a few other bands and then took a long hiatus to write and record. Finally, along with guitarist John Marchiano, bassist Roy Fisher and drummer Jeff Pancoast, The Peace Creeps were born. Bush and song writing partner, AJay McLaughlin’s clever lyricism, along with their Elvis Costello–like wit, Faces–like looseness and the pop sensibilities of the Beatles are reasons for their appeal. "Through Our Ruins" from their 3rd CD "Social Studies" was recently WXPN's Gotta Hear Song of the Week.

It isn’t writing the theme song “Don’t Bet The Farm” that Skip Denenberg remembers most about Farm Aid. Nor is it playing the song for over 5000 people with Willie Nelson and the band backing him up, nor being described by Willie as one of his favorite new songwriters, nor even sharing the stage with his heroes Steve Earle, Neil Young, and Willie Nelson. The most memorable moment for Skip came after the show when the caterer approached him backstage to tell him how much Skip’s songwriting had touched him, and he just had to come back and tell him so.

This is the magic of Skip and his music -- honest, powerful songs that brush against the elusive common nerve that every songwriter seeks to tap. Skip’s music has a distinct American feel that seems instantly familiar and comfortable. As a film and television composer, Skip has scored programs and promos ranging from Sesame Street to Olympic Highlight reels, and was a contributing writer for the 2012 Grammy winning Best Children’s Album, along with being nominated for 7 Mid-Atlantic Emmys.

He has shared stages with such artists as Willie Nelson, Donovan, John Oates, Warren Zevon, Richie Havens, Steve Earle, Dar Williams, Al Kooper, Steve Forbert, Jerry Jeff Walker, Ron Sexsmith, the Saw Doctors, The Neville Brothers, and many others.

He is the songwriter for the Philadelphia Phillies, and can be heard on WIP’s Sports Radio’s "Morning Show". His popular children’s songs are regularly featured on WXPN’s “Kid’s Corner”.

Praised by artist Peter Himmelman as “an organic songwriter of the finest caliber” and by music critic, Chris Smith as “proof that there is hope for the American song", Skip is earning a loyal following everywhere he plays, one fan at a time.

https://skipdenenberg.com/

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A veteran of the DC music scene, J.P. has evolved from his early days as lead guitar for the psychedelic blues band The Next Step, to half of the acoustic blues/roots duo The Reali Brothers in the 90's, to his current solo career.... While J.P.’s repertoire is steeped in the traditions of Piedmont and Delta blues, it also showcases his original blues compositions in a conscious effort to keep these traditional styles alive. With 3 solo releases under his belt, The Road to Mississippi in 2012, A Highway Cruise in 2019, and his current 2024 studio release, Blues Since Birth, which is sitting at number 1 on the Roots Music Report: Top 50 Blues Rock Album Chart (Oct 19, 2024). J.P. won the D.C. Blues Society’s Battle of the Bands in the solo category in 2010 and 2011, and 2019. He went on to compete in The International Blues Challenge in Memphis Tennessee. J.P. also received Washington Area Music Association nominations for Best Blues Instrumentalist, and Best Traditional Blues Recording.

J.P. is a member of The D.C. Blues Society, The Piedmont Blues Preservation Society, The Washington Area Music Association, and The Baltimore Blues Society.

https://jpreali.com/

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Jamey's is one of the longest running blues jams in the region, as well as the #1 original Sunday Blues Brunch and Jam..... Blues lovers and players know that this is THE place to come for some really indescribably delicious all-day breakfast cooked to order by Chef Suyun, a dozen thirst-quenching ice-cold beers on tap from Conshohocken Brewing Company as well as wines and mixed drinks, fresh ground coffee and espressos, superb live blues music, great service and friendly people. The vibe is home-like and cool, and the sound is second to none.

Jamey's provides a full professional grade backline, so players only need to bring their instrument to jump up on stage and jam.

The open mic jam runs from 1 pm to 3 pm, and the host band lays down a set from noon to 1 pm to get things rolling and then supports guest jammers as needed. The always rocking SUNDAY BLUES BRUNCH rocks a HAPPY HOUR from noon to 1pm. Featuring two bucks off draft beers and hard ciders, and a dollar off wines and mixed drinks, and a 10% discount on all menu items!

Admission is 100% free! Plus, it is wheelchair accessible, and has plenty of free local parking. Being right in the center of downtown Lansdowne, next to the train station, there is abundant public transportation as well.

Blues lovers new and old can come to play, eat, drink, chat and enjoy a day soaked in the blues. Guests also like to host gatherings or parties during the brunch, as there are tables and chairs for dining in our stage side Little Art Gallery, and comfortable seats to listen to the music - and it does not cost them a thing to meet up there! No reservations are needed. Just load up some friends and head on down!

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The New Jersey songwriter might have started out banging on doors, braving New York's blues clubs, playing piano until her fingers bled, and winning over the city one show at a time. But lately, the multi-instrumentalist has raced through career milestones at a rocket pace. ... There was her Blues Blast and IBMA-nominated 2018 debut album, High Road. Her international breakout on Ruf's 2022 Blues Caravan Revue. Her starburst of media acclaim, including Henry Yates of Classic Rock, NME, and The Guardian, saluted "a runaway talent you need to keep up with."

Now, with the release of her second album, On My Way, Katie has found another gear. Whether slinging her trusty Gibson SG, hammering the keys, or hollering up a storm, these ten original songs, co-written with bassist and slide-guitar maestro Antar Goodwin, announced her as an alchemist who creates gemstones from the base metals of American roots.

"There's a great range of songs on this album," Katie reflects. "You get a sense of the things I've been going through, the fights I've won, the fights I've lost, and the determination needed to continue. All wrapped in a rock and roots package."

The story goes that at one early show, a fan astutely observed: "It's like she's got John Lee Hooker in her pocket!" Scratch this young artist, and you'll find an old soul. Fingering her first piano chords, aged six, and scrawling early songs in the back of her school notebooks, Katie was the heart of singalongs at her family home in New Jersey.

With fiery guitar chops and natural charisma, she was soon a New York City jam scene favorite. Those who were there, remember songs of many genres, blues, rock, RandB, funk, pop, soul, and country, and her stage presence evoked Bonnie Raitt and Janis Joplin at their most magnetic.

And while “High Road” was the introductory handshake, On My Way is the profoundly personal second album on which Katie gives you her beat-up heart. It all started in May 2021, when Brooklyn's Degraw Sound opened its doors to Katie and producer/guitarist Ben Rice. The crack lineup of Goodwin, Kurt Thum (piano/organ,) and Greg Wieczorek (drums/percussion,) plus British harp ace Giles Robson. "We recorded the album live during the pandemic," reflects Katie, "and it was so fun to be able to record in a room with people after feeling isolated for such a long time. The majority of the album was laid down live, and I love that feeling. It's like capturing lightning in a bottle."

https://katiehenrymusic.com/

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Winners of five Independent Blues Award in 2021 including “Artist of the Year” (Cathy Lemons), “Song of the Year” (Godless Land), “The Lucky Losers are San Francisco’s finest male/female duet fronted band — a throwback to the hybrid of soul, blues, rock, gospel, and country that emerged in the late 1960’s with impassioned vocal performances, electrifying musical interplay, and powerful harmonica. ... Described as “the finest light-skinned female blues vocalist in the U.S” [Real Blues - 2010], fiery Dallas-born entertainer Cathy Lemons has a velvet voice with a gritty edge and the rebel conviction of a woman risen from the ashes. New Jersey native Phil Berkowitz "has earned renown as one of the West Coast’s most distinctive harp players, as well as for his sharp, resonant tenor" [Living Blues - 2018]. The stark contrast between incandescent Lemons and elegant Berkowitz makes for a captivating musical union, breathing new life into American songwriting tradition and the vanishing art of duet singing.

Since 2015, The Lucky Losers have completed numerous national tours, performing on stages in over 46 states. Their artistic achievements have garnered 6 national awards, 25 award nominations, and two International Songwriting Competition prizes as Finalists (2018 and 2020).

https://www.theluckylosers.com/

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Jamey's is one of the longest running blues jams in the region, as well as the #1 original Sunday Blues Brunch and Jam..... Blues lovers and players know that this is THE place to come for some really indescribably delicious all-day breakfast cooked to order by Chef Suyun, a dozen thirst-quenching ice-cold beers on tap from Conshohocken Brewing Company as well as wines and mixed drinks, fresh ground coffee and espressos, superb live blues music, great service and friendly people. The vibe is home-like and cool, and the sound is second to none.

Jamey's provides a full professional grade backline, so players only need to bring their instrument to jump up on stage and jam.

The open mic jam runs from 1 pm to 3 pm, and the host band lays down a set from noon to 1 pm to get things rolling and then supports guest jammers as needed. The always rocking SUNDAY BLUES BRUNCH rocks a HAPPY HOUR from noon to 1pm. Featuring two bucks off draft beers and hard ciders, and a dollar off wines and mixed drinks, and a 10% discount on all menu items!

Admission is 100% free! Plus, it is wheelchair accessible, and has plenty of free local parking. Being right in the center of downtown Lansdowne, next to the train station, there is abundant public transportation as well.

Blues lovers new and old can come to play, eat, drink, chat and enjoy a day soaked in the blues. Guests also like to host gatherings or parties during the brunch, as there are tables and chairs for dining in our stage side Little Art Gallery, and comfortable seats to listen to the music - and it does not cost them a thing to meet up there! No reservations are needed. Just load up some friends and head on down!

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Since first forming The Nick Moss Band Featuring Dennis Gruenling in 2016, master blues guitarist Nick Moss and world class harmonica virtuoso Dennis Gruenling have become torchbearers for traditional electric blues. But rather than repeating what's come before, the band's high-energy take on old school Chicago, Texas and West Coast sounds is completely their own. With their new Alligator Records album (their third for the label), Get Your Back Into It!, Chicago native Moss and New Jersey native Gruenling - together with Rodrigo Mantovani on bass, Taylor Streiff on keyboards and Pierce Downer on drums - deliver a deeply rooted, timeless blue collar blues album.... AllMusic says the band, winners of the 2020 Blues Music Award for Blues Band Of The Year, "makes the case for the vitality of old-fashioned Chicago electric blues in the 21st century." They are among the world's very best old school blues ensembles, with each musician expertly playing off the others. "We are a rare breed as far as how authentic we like to keep the music," says Moss. The guitarist proudly represents the city of Chicago as one of the few bluesmen working today to have learned his craft firsthand, directly from many of the genre's original creators.

Growing up in Chicago and standing tall at 6'2", the teenage Moss dreamed of playing both music and sports. His mother was a huge blues fan, even taking a young Nick to see Muddy Waters live in concert. At 18, sudden, emergency kidney surgery sidelined his athletic hopes and left the youngster feeling blue. To lift his spirits, Nick's brother snuck him out of the hospital to see Alligator artists Little Charlie and The Nightcats perform. Nick was blown away by the show and by meeting the band, and it was then and there that he decided on a career as a bluesman. After his years working with and learning from true blues royalty, Nick formed his first band in 1997 and released his debut album a year later on his own independent Blue Bella label. Since then, he's earned legions of fans, playing over 100 shows a year. Moss has shared stages with Buddy Guy, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Gary Clark, Jr., David Hidalgo and many others, and is an in-demand guest, always welcome to sit in with his musician friends around the world. He and the band have crisscrossed the United States and Canada multiple times, and have performed in the UK, Norway, Belgium, France, Spain, Latvia, Poland and other European countries.

Dennis Gruenling, Moss' friend of over 20 years, is considered among today's most innovative and creative blues harmonica players. His high-energy, full-throttle reed work has earned him comparisons to many of the greats including the late James Cotton. As a teen he heard the Alligator recording Harp Attack! (a summit meeting of Cotton, Junior Wells, Carey Bell and Billy Branch) and decided that blues harmonica was his life's calling. In addition to Cotton, Gruenling was inspired by blues harp masters Little Walter and George "Harmonica" Smith as well as by saxophonists, including Lester Young and Red Prysock. A self-taught player and a natural entertainer with seven solo albums and numerous guest appearances to his credit, Gruenling's giant, fat-toned harp work, raw-boned singing and untamed energy are a perfect foil for Moss' inspired guitar playing and straight-from-the-shoulder blues vocals. Vintage Guitar says, "Gruenling's harp, along with the Midwestern intensity of Moss' blues guitar, is pure ecstasy."

Moss, Gruenling and the band have received a total of five Blues Music Awards, with wins in 2020 for Band Of The Year, Song Of The Year (Lucky Guy) and Traditional Blues Album Of The Year (Lucky Guy!), and in 2019 for Traditional Blues Male Artist (Moss) and Instrumentalist--Harmonica (Gruenling). Blues Music Magazine says, "Nick Moss is a major force in contemporary blues. Dennis Gruenling plays soaring harp...infectious and finger-snappin'."

AC Steel and the Perpetrators form a perfect complement to the Nick Moss Band. Formed by veteran international bluesman AC Steel (Steve Solotist) with four of Philadelphia's baddest blues players, the band excels in tight "east coast electric blues" featuring AC on guitar and vocals, Glenn Bickel on Hammond organ, piano and vocals, Frank McKitty on tenor sax, Jamey Reilly on Fender bass and Paul Albrecht on drums.

https://www.nickmossband.com/

https://www.acsteelperps.com/

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Meghan Cary didn’t mean to be a musician. But when her fiancé unexpectedly died, she picked up his guitar, figured out how to play it, and wrote her debut record, earning her Billboard Magazine’s esteemed Critic’s Choice Award. “I wrote my grief into music and sang my way out of the abyss.I keep making music to help others connect with their own stories and find their joy.... Her album, SING LOUDER, debuted in the top 10 on the US/International Folk DJ Chart, and John Platt of WFUV extols, "These times require songs of compassion and commitment. Meghan has several which inspire us to reach our higher selves, and she sings them with such infectious joy you can’t resist joining in."

With masterful storytelling and award-winning songs, Cary creates a live music experience that is healing, inspiring, and outrageously joyful. Her message of unity and the power of raising our voices together infuses every show, and her song, “Sing Louder”, has become an anthem for the music-loving community.

Cary is a favorite on festival stages including Philadelphia Folk Festival, Falcon Ridge, and Black Bear Americana, and has shared the stage with folk and Americana luminaries such as Joan Osborne, Lucinda Williams, Christine Lavin, and Little Feat. Her smoky voice, emotional singing, and vulnerable writing garner favorable comparisons to Melissa Etheridge, Brandi Carlisle, and even Bruce Springsteen.

As the producer of Philly Songwriters in the Round, Cary curates intimate, collaborative performances that spotlight the diverse voices of the Philadelphia music scene. As a performance coach, songwriting teacher, and keynote speaker, she empowers artists and audiences alike to embrace their authentic stories with humor, heart, and courage.

A professional actor and playwright with a successful career in theatre, television and radio, Meghan has written and preforms a one-woman show, On the Way to the Waterfall, and is currently collaborating on a Broadway-bound musical. Raised in Hershey, PA, Cary studied math and chemistry at Duke University, with plans of becoming a doctor. She made an about-face at school, ultimately earning her B.A. in drama before going on to obtain her M.F.A. in acting at FSU’s Asolo Conservatory for Acting. She is a founding member of the NYC-based, Actor's Shakespeare Company, and has performed in more than 100 plays throughout the United States and Europe. Cary has supported her creative habit as an on-camera commercial and voice over artist.

Musician/actor/coach/motivational speaker and the mother of two, Meghan speaks with humor and grace about navigating life’s constant rewrites. Her mantra: “If you don’t know the words… sing louder.”

https://meghancary.com/

Kingston, Ontario, Canada based Miss Emily is celebrating her 21st year as a full-time Soul-Blues-Americana artist. The 2022 JUNO Nominee and International Songwriting Competition winner won her third 'Female Artist of the Year' at last year's Maple Blues Awards in Toronto.

Emily is a proud mom and in recent years has been able to tour more extensively, including performances across Canada, parts of the US, UK and Europe.

Her new album 'The Medicine', produced by Grammy and JUNO Award winning Colin Linden, will be released in October ‘25.

https://www.themissemily.com

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“New York Blues” can be described like the global phenomenon that it is: edgy, honest and one-of-a-kind. From Lionel Hampton to Ruth Brown …from Michael Hill to King Solomon Hicks — New York can claim its own unique blues experience.... BLUES People is a NY/NJ blues band featuring...KELTON COOPER (vocals/guitar), MIKE GRIOT (bass), RON THOMPSON (keys) and GENE LAKE (drums). Early comparisons to the Meters, Luther Allison, Keb Mo' and Buddy Guy are starting to roll in!

Having released two promotional singles in 2022 and 2023 ("The Skin I'm In" and "Troubled Times"), the band has independently released its 2024 debut album “The Skin I'm In” – nominated by BLUES BLAST MAGAZINE as Best New Artist Debut Album!

These seasoned veterans have certainly paid their dues; as individual side men, they have supported a who’s-who of touring “A-listers”, including Sue Foley, Josh Smith, Kool and the Gang, Ruf’s Blues Caravan, Joanne Shaw Taylor, Bo Diddley, Jr. and Michael Hill’s Blues Mob… just to name a few.

BLUES People’s arrival on the global blues scene marks a dynamic shift in the present and future state of blues music… and the culmination of a story over 40 years in the making. Lead singer- guitarist Kelton Cooper and Bassist Mike Griot met as teenagers in rival bands in Orange, NJ… just a stone’s throw from NYC.

Cooper (who played drums, guitar and bass) and Griot (who was a classical cellist and electric bassist) shared early stages on local talent shows. Hungry to play the music of the time, these inspired teenagers took every opportunity to play their instruments for any who would listen. Whether it was a friend’s basement, garage or backyard — these two talents literally loaded their equipment in shopping carts (if necessary) to the next place they could play their music.

FAST FORWARD (2017): Having separately amassed years of pro touring credits, recording sessions and collaborations with a literal “Who’s Who” in entertainment, Cooper and Griot found themselves back together again — this time in Griot’s live music club in New Jersey. Cooper moonlighted as a sound engineer…as well as continuing his relentless freelance schedule. It was fellow sideman/drummer Gene Lake (David Sanborn/Boz Scaggs/Meshell Ndegeocello) who suggested Cooper should do an original project. Upon presenting this to Griot, Griot agreed, stating “if we become a cover band, lose my number”! This proved to be the catalyst for band’s birth.

THE PANDEMIC (2020): When COVID shut down the music industry, the three musical comrades did what many did: write and record. With access to multiple studios, they began crafting what has now become their “NYC/North Jersey Blues Sound” - while sharing stories of their life and struggles. Their important together work has resulted in their 2024 debut album: “The Skin I’m In”. Blues People musically explores the effects of the blues on modern American culture on many universal levels... and is a modern chronicle of four "real-life blues brothers" living in THIS time in America... while surviving the NY/NJ-Metro urban landscape. BLUES People was born during the pandemic… but the band members have authentically lived their truths - as lifelong working musicians, producers and recording artists for over 30 years.

After taking the NY-metro area by storm for 4 years with their incredible shows and musicianship, the band has won the North Jersey Blues Society International Blues Challenge in 2023 and 2024… and made the SEMIFINALS in the 2024 and 2025 Memphis International Blues Challenge!

https://bluespeoplenj.com/

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Jamey's is one of the longest running blues jams in the region, as well as the #1 original Sunday Blues Brunch and Jam..... Blues lovers and players know that this is THE place to come for some really indescribably delicious all-day breakfast cooked to order by Chef Suyun, a dozen thirst-quenching ice-cold beers on tap from Conshohocken Brewing Company as well as wines and mixed drinks, fresh ground coffee and espressos, superb live blues music, great service and friendly people. The vibe is home-like and cool, and the sound is second to none.

Jamey's provides a full professional grade backline, so players only need to bring their instrument to jump up on stage and jam.

The open mic jam runs from 1 pm to 3 pm, and the host band lays down a set from noon to 1 pm to get things rolling and then supports guest jammers as needed. The always rocking SUNDAY BLUES BRUNCH rocks a HAPPY HOUR from noon to 1pm. Featuring two bucks off draft beers and hard ciders, and a dollar off wines and mixed drinks, and a 10% discount on all menu items!

Admission is 100% free! Plus, it is wheelchair accessible, and has plenty of free local parking. Being right in the center of downtown Lansdowne, next to the train station, there is abundant public transportation as well.

Blues lovers new and old can come to play, eat, drink, chat and enjoy a day soaked in the blues. Guests also like to host gatherings or parties during the brunch, as there are tables and chairs for dining in our stage side Little Art Gallery, and comfortable seats to listen to the music - and it does not cost them a thing to meet up there! No reservations are needed. Just load up some friends and head on down!

https://www.phillyblueskings.com

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Formed in 2023, the Philadelphia Blues Society exists to fulfill its mission by enabling live performance and helping to educate the community about the history and expression of a truly American artform. Our goal is to spread the love of The Blues!... This rain or shine festival will be held on the grounds of the Temple University Ambler Campus, or indoors in the auditorium pending inclement weather and features plenty of free parking and space to set out blankets and lawnchairs for your whole group. Six great blues acts will take the stage starting at 11am and finishing at 6pm. There will be food trucks, vendor tables, a beer garden, and indoor restrooms. The box office will be open onsite for late attendees. Please leave all food and alcohol at home as we have a great variety of comestibles.

Our initial sponsors are Conshohocken Brewing Co and Jamey's House of Music with more to follow. Once we have a list of food and vendors, we will post that here as well.

11am to 11:45pm - Danielle Miraglia
12pm to 12:45pm - The Philly Blues Kings with Clarence Spady and Kate Gaffney
1pm to 1:45pm - Erin Harpe and Jim Countryman
2pm to 3pm - Billy The Kid and the Regulators with Philadelphia Slim
3:15pm to 4:15pm - Mikey Junior Band
4:30pm to 6pm - Solomon Hicks

https://www.philadelphiabluessociety.org/

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