Jazz and Blues Lounge

Blues in Bloomington

by balaspa on June 20th, 2008

The twin cities of Bloomington and Normal sit about two hours to the south of Chicago. They are maybe three hours north of St. Louis. Bloomington is the international headquarters for State Farm Insurance and is also a big college town. It is also the LONGEST part of the drive either to and from Chicago and St. Louis. If you are driving from Chicago to St. Louis, the longest part of the journey (at least perception-wise) is that stretch between Chicago and Bloomington. The same holds true when you are driving back.

Well, they are the home of a very cool Blues festival known as “Nothin’ but the Blues” and you can click on that link and see what I am about to tell you right here along with the very cool pictures.

NOTHIN’ BUT THE BLUES FESTIVAL

When? July 18 - 19

Where? Bloomington Tri-Lakes in Bloomington, IL

The schedule and who is playing? Well, thanks to the people who put together the website, it says:

JULY 18th

Gates Open at 5:00 PM

6:00 PM Cleveland Fats
7:00 PM Mike Wheeler Band
8:15 PM Teeny Tucker
9:30 PM Larry McCray

JULY 19th

Gates Open at 12:00 NOON

1:30 PM Steve “The Harp” Blues Band
3:00 PM Daryl Coutts
4:15 PM Alvin Jett and the Phat noiz band
5:30 PM Janiva Magness
6:45 PM Holmes Brothers
8:15 PM Thornetta Davis

FOR THE KIDS

Tethered Balloon Rides from OSF Available

1:00 - 4:00 PM Unique Twist
1:00 - 4:00 PM Zoo Lady

2:30 pm FREE Harmonica Workshop
With Harmonica Master Steve “The Harp”

Free Harmonica for Children 17 and under attending the workshop.
$5.00 for adults attending the workshop that want a BBS Harmonica.
Free if adults bring a Harmonica in the key of “C”

So, see, this is one you really are encouraged to bring the kids to. It’s another great event and it’s this summer, people. You can spend almost your entire summer based out of Chicago and see one blues and jazz festival after another. Not to mention all of the great jazz and blues here in Chicago that is here always.

POSTED IN: Bands, Chicago, Festivals, blues