ITTA BENA, Miss. – Mississippi Valley State University (MVSU) is excited to announce the 10th Annual B.B. King Day Symposium, taking place on September 4-5 (Wednesday-Thursday) at the W.A. Buttts Social Science Building in the Carver A. Randle Auditorium. This year's milestone event will explore the theme "The Next Generation of Blues Artists," highlighting how contemporary musicians carry forward the blues legacy while infusing it with new energy and perspectives.
As part of the celebration, a special B.B. King Pre-Day Lecture will be held on September 4, 2024, from 11 a.m. to noon in the Little Theater Upstairs in the Fine Arts Building. The lecture, presented by Jock Webb, Sr. and Dr. Alphonso Sanders, will delve into “The Struggles of the Early Generation of Blues Artists that Allowed the Next Generation of Blues Artists to Succeed.” This insightful presentation will set the stage for the symposium by honoring the pioneers of the blues and examining their enduring influence on today’s artists.
"B.B. King's legacy is a testament to the power of music to bridge divides and bring people together. We are honored to celebrate his contributions to our culture and the world while also spotlighting the emerging voices shaping the blues' future,” said Margaret Clark, event coordinator.
Event Highlights:
- Panel Discussions:
- What is the future of Black Americans and the new Blues culture? What does the latest generation of blues musicians have to say? Panelists: Marquise Knox, Keith Johnson, Melody Angel.
- What are your personal stories and experiences as a blues musician as they relate to the industry and audiences for your success? Panelists: Sean “Mack” McDonald, Harrell Davenport, Steven Hull, Kimberly Horton
- Live Performances: The symposium will culminate with evening performances from 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. at the legendary Club Ebony in Indianola, featuring special guests Melody Angel, Harrell 'Young Rell’ Davenport, Keith Johnson, Stephen Hull, Kimberly D. Horton, Sean Mack McDonald, Jock L. Webb Sr., and Marquise Knox. These performances will bring the rich, soulful sounds of the blues to life, offering a powerful tribute to B.B. King’s enduring legacy.
MVSU invites blues enthusiasts, students, faculty, and community members to join us in celebrating a decade of the B.B. King Day Symposium. This year's event is a unique opportunity to engage with the history and future of the blues through meaningful discussions, live music, and a shared commitment to cultural preservation.
About Mississippi Valley State University:
Mississippi Valley State University, located in Itta Bena, Mississippi, provides accessible, high-quality educational programs and opportunities to its students while fostering a rich cultural and social environment. MVSU is committed to teaching, learning, service, and outreach excellence.