Get the blues

While many people maintain that blues came before jazz, that's not quite how it will work in Cape Girardeau this month.

This weekend, the Clark Terry/Phi Mu Alpha Jazz Festival swings into town at Southeast Missouri State University's River Campus, exposing university and high school students to workshops and experts like trumpeter Allen Beeson.

But next weekend, we get the blues.

Local blues guitarist Ivas John partnered with the Southern Illinois Blues Society to organize a Saturday concert featuring Kenny "Blues Boss" Wayne at Port Cape.

Wayne brings the total package of dress, passion and charisma to the 88s. He's earned too many accolades to print. Safe to say, he's amazing.

Throw a dart at the calendar and you're likely to hit a day when a southern rock or country act is playing in Cape Girardeau. John and Bruce Zimmerman draw the blues crowd to the Port on Sundays, but this concert on a Saturday opens the door to those who may not be able to go out on a work night.

Book a sitter and take a seat.

The concert will bring together several local acts like Zimmerman and John, Big Larry Williams, Doug Rees and Rip Lee Pryor. "Blues Boss" Wayne tops it off.

I just received the flier and information this week but wanted to send you a save the date.

Check out next week's SE Live for more information about the night of blues.