Jackson’s Best Sounds

Clubs in Jackson play the blues all year long. But the city takes it outside for a meeting of musical cultures during Jubilee! JAM, June 13-14.

The event showcases national as well as regional talent, with familiar names such as ZZ Top and Blind Melon both on this year’s lineup. Favorites last year included rap artist Ludacris, Memphis blues guitarist Alvin Youngblood Hart, and local blues legends Jesse Robinson and Arnold Lindsay. Bands hit the stage shortly after 6 p.m. both days, and keep Capitol Street hopping until just shy of midnight.

Art takes many forms during this alfresco celebration. In addition to live music, local DJs take turns spinning their favorite tunes. Also look for artists and crafts-people who demonstrate and display their works.

Jubilee! JAM:www.jubileejam.com. For more information about Jackson, visitwww.visitjackson.com.

Best of the Blues
Our favorite spot in town is the 930 Blues Cafe, with live music beginning at 8 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday. We like to go on Thursday, when Norman Clark and his Smokestack Lightning Band stroke your soul with authentic Delta blues. When Miss Jackie Bell lets loose with a voice as raw and mighty as the Mississippi, no one comes away untouched. 930 North Congress Street; www.jesdablues.com or (601) 948-3344.

"Jackson’s Best Sounds" is from the June 2008 issue of Southern Living. Because prices, dates, and other specifics are subject to change, please check all information to make sure it's still current before making your travel plans.