The programs at BluesForever
BluesForever programs are designed to keep the Blues alive by putting the music into action—on the stage, in the classroom, and along the historic Blues Highway. From live Blues performances and community shows to educational Blues in the Schools programs and presentations that explore the people, places, and history that shaped this uniquely American art form, BluesForever connects audiences with the Blues in meaningful ways. Our programs bring musicians, educators, historians, students, and Blues fans together to celebrate the music, share its stories, and inspire the next generation. It’s preservation through performance, education, and community—keeping the Blues alive, relevant, and moving forward.
"The Blues had a baby, and called it Rock & Roll"
- Muddy Waters
What is The Blues Highway?
What is Blues in the Schools (BITS)?
A road is a road, but sometimes it’s more. Sometimes a road sings. The Blues Highway presentation takes you along famed Hwy. 61 on a road trip through time….from the beginnings of this distinctive musical style, through the resurgence of the 50’s, the 60’s British Invasion, all the way to today’s music scene.
Muddy Waters rode the Blues Highway. So did John Lee Hooker, Bessie Smith, and B.B. King. Elvis knew it, too—his rock-and-roll is as rooted in the delta as a cypress tree.
Immerse yourself in the culture by following in the footsteps of the Blues greats, and discover what inspired them.
Blues in the Schools (BITS) is one of our favorite presentations, as it holds our record attendance — 1,800 kids on one day!
Blues education crosses the disciplines of history, geography, social studies, and of course, music. At the same time, building imagination and intellectual curiosity, creative thinking, better SAT scores, and helping kids stay engaged in school.
Blues in the Schools brings the blues genre into the classroom where students are exposed to these traditional subjects, while breaking down racial barriers and opening dialogue about cultural diversity.