By Tracy Sow, Special to The New Tri-State Defender
The 6th Annual Red, White and Blues Jam at the Tunica RiverPark & Museum had plenty of great music to celebrate military veterans and their families last weekend.
Three legendary blues veterans — Bobby Rush, Denise LaSalle and Latimore — rendered a historic concert hosted by comedian and radio personality J. Anthony Brown. The admiration and friendship shared among the legends shone through on a rainy day, but the rain couldn’t stop a good time.
There was plenty of entertainment, food and activities indoors, while attendees enjoyed an incredible view of the mighty Mississippi River. Opening acts included Big LLou Johnson; Ms. Zeno, the Louisiana Mojo Queen; and Vince Johnson and the All-Stars.
J. Anthony Brown, a huge Bobby Rush fan, cracked jokes and had fun with fans and surprised everyone by whipping out his harmonica and jamming onstage with Bobby Rush. “I got to play with Bobby Rush!” Brown squealed as he left the stage jumping up and down.
Brown had more fun with the crowd when he challenged 10 brave souls to a hot wing contest, featuring his own line of gourmet hot sauces, “Hotter Than A MoFo.” Contestants only had to eat five wings to win $100, and just one brother actually won.
“Tunica County is a contributor to Blues history and is very pleased to have Red, White and Blues Jam in Tunica,” said Tunica County Board of Supervisors’ President, James Dunn. “Honoring veterans and sharing the wonderful attractions of Tunica is an extreme pleasure.”
Veterans and attendees also had the opportunity to win passes for two to the Blues Museum in Tunica. Other attractions included riverside nature and horse trails and a “dock party” filled with entertainment for the whole family.
