On Thursday, June 5, acclaimed blues artists will be performing at The Hangout on Main, located at 221 E. Main St. during Blues on Main.
Featured artists include: Heather Crosse, Lee Williams Jr., Anthony “Big A” Sherrod, and Chanute’s own “Doc” Hockett.
According to Cherryl Olson, a member of the board of directors for Main Street Chanute, Blues on Main is a renewed version of the previous Blues and BBQ event with new food vendors including Tri-Mee Food Truck, El Sazon De Ana, and the Ice House. Attendees can also purchase beverages at the Hangout on Main. Olson said other local businesses are supporting the event with sponsorships, such as Home Savings Bank sponsoring musicians and Holiday Inn hosting the musicians during their stay. Other sponsors include the Chanute Area Chamber of Commerce, and Seely Plumbing.
Crosse fronts a soul blues band, Heavy Suga’ & The Sweetones. She also has a solo career, recording with Ruf Records, having toured across Europe and the U.S.
Currently representing Clarksdale, Mississippi, and the Pinetop Perkins Foundation, She has also served numerous communities as a music teacher. She has taught many students through programs such as Blues in the Schools, directing an afterschool music program, leading a youth band, teaching at schools, giving lessons in several instruments, and presenting workshops.
She said she is honored to have played bass alongside musicians such as: Bob Margolin, Super Chikan, Charlie Musslewhite, Jody Williams, Fiona Boyes, Terry “Big T” Williams, Monster Mike Welch, and Mike Leadbetter.
“Blues is my passion and I love sharing it. I will do this for the rest of my life,” Crosse said.
Williams is a drummer, who began his music career as a participant at the Delta Blues Museum, Today he gives back to the same program where he got his start as a mentor for museum programs, teaching participants about the rich musical and cultural history of Clarksdale. He is also part of the Pinetop Perkins Foundation.
Also from Clarksdale is Sherrod, who began playing guitar at four-years-old. Sherrod also plays keyboard, bass, and drums. He said he was influenced by mentors such as his godfather, Jack Johnson, Mr. Johnny Billington, Josh “Razorblade” Steward. He said he learned stage presence and respect through these musicians. Sherrod tours internationally, and also is a mentor at the Delta Blues Museum. Hockett was inducted into the Music Hall of Fame in 2009 as a member of the Sensational Showmen. Hockett toured with the band throughout the U.S. and Canada from 1969-1971. Hockett spent some time living in Kansas City, where he played area icons such as: Millage Gilbert, Eugene Smiley, Richard Townshend, Marva Whitney, and Daniele Nicole.
“We had about 150 attendees last year, and we hope to double that this year,” Olson said.
Food and drinks will be sold on site beginning at 5:30 p.m., with music beginning at 6 p.m. Bring a lawn chair.
A full story covering the event will be featured in the Tuesday, June 10, edition of the Chanute Tribune.
Heather Crosse
Lee Williams Jr.
Anthony “Big A” Sherrod
