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This Saturday, July 22, The Jefferson Street United Merchants Partnership (JUMP) will host the 23rd annual Jefferson Street Jazz & Blues Festival on the campus of Tennessee State University. An exciting musical lineup celebrating the iconic history of Nashville’s Jefferson Street begins at 5 p.m, with ticket proceeds benefiting JUMP. It is the largest annual public community music festival in Middle Tennessee.

The 23rd annual Jefferson Street Jazz & Blues Festival artist lineup includes Bizz & Everyday People, Joe Johnson and Friends, Cherelle, Glenn Jones, and Sir Charles. For nearly a quarter century, the event has showcased the area’s best jazz and blues artists and celebrated the rich music heritage and distinct flavors of the Jefferson Street community. With thousands of attendees each year, the event connects the history of the Jefferson Street Corridor to a new generation through the sounds of Jazz, Blues, Funk, Gospel, Soul, and R&B. The family-friendly festival also attracts local food and retail vendors.

From the 1940s through the 1960s, Jefferson Street was one of the best places in America to hear Jazz, Blues and R&B. Famous African American musicians played regularly at clubs here, including Little Richard, Jimi Hendrix, Ray Charles, Fats Domino and Memphis Slim. Many Nashville artists with hit records lived here, but the golden era came to an end with the construction of I-40, which bisected the area, closing off businesses and cutting off traffic to its remaining community. Today, Jefferson Street continues to serve as the heart and soul of the African American community in Nashville. The area is bustling with both new and restored historic restaurants, landmarks, retail space, and residences, as well as new construction.

Event tickets may be purchased here, and you can learn more here.