Chicago has always been a centre for entertainment and culture and hosts many programmes dedicated to the arts throughout the year. The Chicago Blues Festival ranks a prominent place among these festivities and is organized annually, usually in the early weeks of June.
The choice of Chicago as the home for this festival possibly stems from Chicago's long standing love affair with Blues Music, dating back to the time of the ‘Great Migration'. The first Blues Festival was organized by the Cultural Affairs Minister in 1984, which was one year since the passing away of Chicago Blues Legend McKinley Morganfield – popularly known as Muddy Waters. Ever since that first Festival which was in memory of "the father of Chicago Blues", subsequent festivals too have always incorporated a theme which honours some aspect of Blues music – either an artist or movement.
This festival is the largest of its kind in the world, as it is a free concert, seeing the participation of close to 500,000 fans at any given year.
It is held at Grant Park and is organised by the Mayor's Office Special Events Department. It spans across three days and incorporates music from old time favourites as well as up and coming artistes.Past festivals have featured blues artistes in the calibre of Buddy Guy, Eddie C, Ray Charles, Calvin Jones, Matt Murphy, The Neville Brothers, Willie Dixon, Stevie Ray Vaughan and Keith Richards.
The event attracts crowds from all across the world. It has gone on to become an intrinsic part of the city of Chicago and is a true embodiment of its heritage. The Festival incorporates music from close genres such as Blue Rock, Soul and Jazz Blues as well.
If you are hoping to visit Chicago during the month of June, then ensure that you get there in time for the Chicago Blues Festival as it is something that you don't want to miss.
Not just the music – which is great – but also the atmosphere during the three days is something unique and profound. If you are looking for possible Chicago luxury hotelsfrom which to base yourself during your stay, the Millennium Knickerbocker Hotel Chicago is certainly worth a look. With its modern facade hiding old time Chicago hospitality, it is one of the best hotels Chicagothat you could find.
Roll your Blues away with Chicago's Blues Festival