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Freight & Salvage is proud to present the inaugural DeFord Bailey Legacy Festival, honoring the harmonica virtuoso’s impactful legacy as the first Black star of the Grand Ole Opry.Curated by Grammy® award-winning artist Dom Flemons, Artistic Director Peter Williams, and Director of Education PC Muñoz – this 3-day festival includes talks, workshops, interviews, free community events, and evening concerts. The Freight also presents an exhibit of art and craft in partnership with the Downtown Berkeley Library, celebrating the history of Black cowboys in the United States, curated by Vania Kinard.
Learn more about the event on our DeFord Bailey Legacy Festival page.
Save with a DeFord Bailey Legacy Festival 3-Day Pass!
Jerron Paxton
Genre: Blues, Jazz, Folk
Jerron "Blind Boy" Paxton is a masterful multi-instrumentalist and captivating storyteller, renowned for his ability to transport audiences back to the 1920s with his rich blend of blues, jazz, and folk. Born in Los Angeles, Paxton’s musical journey began with deep Southern roots, influenced by legendary figures like Fats Waller and Blind Lemon Jefferson. His performances are a vibrant tapestry of sound, featuring banjo, guitar, piano, fiddle, harmonica, Cajun accordion, and more. Praised for his authenticity and humor, Paxton has graced stages at major festivals across the globe, including the Brooklyn Folk Festival and the Calgary Folk Festival. His recent appearances in the acclaimed documentary American Epic have solidified his reputation as one of the leading voices of his generation. With an uncanny ability to revive traditional sounds and make them resonate today, Jerron Paxton continues to be a shining star in the world of acoustic blues.
Dom Flemons
Genre: American Roots, Folk, Blues, Country
Known as "The American Songster®," Dom Flemons is a versatile musician whose repertoire spans over a century of American roots music, including country, folk, bluegrass, Americana, and blues. Based in the Chicago area, he is a multi-instrumentalist, historian, actor, and podcaster. A founding member of the Carolina Chocolate Drops, Flemons has earned a GRAMMY Award and multiple nominations. His latest album, Traveling Wildfire, was released on Smithsonian Folkways and includes original songs and detailed liner notes. Flemons recently narrated the documentary series “The Real Wild West” on CuriosityStream, bringing the diverse stories of American pioneers to life. With a deep commitment to cultural preservation, Flemons continues to explore and celebrate the rich tapestry of American music.
Fantastic Negrito
Genre: Blues, Soul, Rock
Prepare for an exhilarating musical journey with Fantastic Negrito, the genre-defying artist whose electrifying performances fuse blues, funk, rock, and soul into a captivating tapestry of sound. Born Xavier Amin Dphrepaulezz, his compelling narrative weaves through themes of resilience, love, and social justice, reflecting the struggles and triumphs of his ancestors. His latest album, White Jesus Black Problems, draws inspiration from the forbidden interracial romance of his seventh-generation grandparents in the 1750s, tackling racism and the meaning of freedom with raw honesty. Fantastic Negrito’s musical evolution is a testament to his indomitable spirit. After a near-fatal car accident that significantly impacted his guitar playing, he emerged victorious, winning the inaugural NPR Tiny Desk Contest in 2015 and securing three consecutive Grammy Awards for Best Contemporary Blues Album. From performing with legends like Bruce Springsteen and Sting to founding his own label, Storefront Records, Fantastic Negrito continues to redefine what it means to be an artist in today’s world. With a powerful stage presence and an unwavering commitment to authenticity, he transforms heavy topics into infectious rhythms that inspire hope and connection.
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Freight & Salvage, 2022 Addison St, Berkeley, CA 94704-1104, United States,Berkeley, California
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