Festival Bringing the Blues to Clemson

The Clemson Blues Festival, now in its second year, drew 3,000 people to Clemson during our first season to hear the sounds of blues and gospel.

History tells us blues and gospel music originated from the same roots---the music created by soon to be emancipated slaves during Jubilees first held during the 1840s.

The Festival begins with a VIP Reception honoring mental health providers at Central’s Red Minnow Dinner Club on Thursday, April 18, 2013. Live entertainment, FEATURING JIMI LEE from Austin, TX, food and drink will make for a festive evening as we thank those sponsors who make the Festival possible. During the week numerous blues bands will perform in the area. Please see our online schedule for details. www.clemsonbluesfest.com

Our main event will happen April 20 at Patrick Square, the intersection of US 123 and Issaqueena Trail in Clemson from 11:00 am until 7:00 pm when eight blues bands will perform. BBQ, fish fry, funnel cakes, boiled peanuts and vendors selling blues inspired merchandise will be on hand.

Our Gospel Sunday event Sunday afternoon, April 21 from 1:00 until 5:00 pm benefits the Clemson African American Museum. Last year a standing room only crowd rubbed shoulders, enjoying the sounds of six gospel choirs, while a 20-piece brass band performed old-time gospel songs. We realized right away be needed a larger venue for 2013, so we have moved to the Clemson United Methodist Church on Frontage Road in Clemson.

We are a non-profit 501c3 corporation and are fully supported by the City of Clemson, Clemson Area Chamber of Commerce and the Town of Central and our many sponsors. Please visit our website www.clemsonbluesfest.com for photos of last year’s event and more information.