On August 2nd I started doing gigs at small Farmers Markets in conjunction with the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE). I am working at 4 different Markets in the Austin area on the West Side of Chicago. These areas are often referred to as “Food Deserts” as fresh produce is not available in these neighborhoods. DCASE also contends that they are “Cultural Deserts” as well and has sponsored music and theatre productions (Taming of the Shrew most recently) in neighborhood parks and churches. I have been doing acoustic style duo’s with: Lurrie Bell, John Primer, Eddie Taylor Jr. and Johnny Iguana. It is a cruel irony that one of the neighborhoods that gave birth to the world changing sound we call Chicago Blues is devoid of its own cultural fruit. This is changing! And the children who stop and listen look at us quizzically and pat their feet and the old folks give a knowing smile of recognition…Here are the 4 markets we will be performing at for the rest of the summer:
Columbus Park – (Approximately 5600 W. Harrison at Harrison and Central)
Tuesday – 2:30pm-5pm
Now – October 30
La Follette Park – 1333 N. Laramie (Approximately Hirsch and Laramie)
Wednesday – 2:30pm – 5pm
Now – October 24
Austin Town Hall (at Lake and Central (5600 W. Lake)
Thursday – 2:30pm – 5pm
Now– October 25
Healing Temple Church (4941 W. Chicago)
Sunday 12:30pm – 4pm
Now – October 28