King Communications Group and Main Street Madison Ga. will kick off the summer with the first Peach State Blues Festival in Madison, Ga., on Saturday, June 2, from noon to 10 p.m.
The celebrated, legendary Blues singer Bobby Rush will be the festival's headliner. Blues singers Claudette King (daughter of legendary B.B. King), Willie Hill, Bobbye (Doll) Johnson, Cantwise and Freedom, Cruisers, and Lady D and the Set it Off Band will also perform.
The event will be hosted by Comedian Ms.Woo and will be held at Town Park.
The Peach States Blues Festival is accepting applications for vendors. The deadline to purchase vendor space is May 25. To purchase vendor space and/or tickets, visit www.madisonga.com. Tickets are $25 in advance; $40 the day of the event.
In a recent interview, right off a tour from Japan, Rush says he's excited about bringing the blues to Madison. "We're going to do what we do best and that's sing blues, play blues and entertain and be happy. I am that I am," he said. Performing since he was a teenager, Rush has 56 years under his belt. He has toured the world for the last 49 years and despite his almost hitting 80-years-old, he shows no sign of slowing down. "I don't think I've been off nine weeks in the last 49 years," he said.
Throughout his career, he has written and produced 249 records, signed with many major record companies and released many albums and received numerous awards.
Later this year, he will release his new album. While initially a Chicago blues singer (for 46 years), he eventually broke through with his unique style that incorporated blues, funk and folk and relocated to Jackson, Miss.
In 1968, he released his record, "Chicken Head" and it hit Gold status. He soon followed that up with "Sue, I Ain't Studdin' You" that hit Gold status. Some of his regional hits include: "It's Alright," "Bow-Legged Woman, Knock Kneed Man," "One Monkey Don't Stop No Show," "She's A Good Un," and "Wha's Good For The."
Rush has received many awards and recognitions, including "Best Live Performer of the Year," "Best Blues Entertainer of the Year" and "Best Soul/Blues Albums of the Year" (Blues Highway). The Living Blues Critics' Poll named him the year's Best Live Performer in 1995.
The festival was founded by Amos King of King Communication Group and will be an annual event in Madison.
"We're looking forward to our first blues festival in Madison. We're very excited about bringing the legendary Blues singer Bobby Rush and the other blues artist to the beautiful city of Madison," said King. "We have partnered with Main Street Madison and we plan to bring you a day of great entertainment, food and fun. Come share the experience in Madison."
No coolers or pets are allowed on the festival grounds. This is a rain or shine event and no refunds will be given.
Madison is a beautiful historic small town located 45 miles east of Atlanta off I-20, exit 114. Town Park is located at 218 Jefferson Street, Madison.
The outdoor facility is a beautiful park in the center of town and is surrounded by area businesses.
King Communications Group will host an After Party at Town 220 Restaurant, located at 220 West Washington Street, Madison, Ga., directly across the street from the festival.
For additional information or for VIP table seating at the festival, contact King Communications at (678) 898-8753.
