Time was when the weeks leading up to the Chicago Blues Festival were nearly another festival in themselves. Those days are gone, but the city’s blues clubs will still be jumping all weekend. Underpublicized neighborhood joints will throw shows worth noting too, and museums, libraries, and nonprofits will host special events.
On Saturday, After-Words Books sponsors a “Jazz, Blues, and Beyond Bus Tour” of musical landmarks famous and obscure. On Sunday, worthwhile shows include a performance by blues prodigy Jamiah Rogers at River Roast, the redoubtable Jimmy Johnson doing his regular gig at the Lagunitas taproom, and a Blues Fest satellite show (with Vince “Lefty” Johnson, David Herrero, and others) at what’s still being called the Maxwell Street Market but is actually several blocks east. In case you’ll still be around Monday, the Fantastic L’Roy appears at Linda’s Place that night.
Godfather’s South Side Blues Revue Enter through the side door, by the parking lot. 9 PM, Ambrosia Room, 5442 S. Damen, 773-476-0579, free, 21+
Friday, June 7
“Amplified: Chicago Blues” A photo exhibit with interactive activities and live music. 9:30 AM-4:30 PM, Chicago History Museum, 1601 N. Clark, 312-642-4600, $19, $17 students and seniors, free for children under 18 (must be Illinois residents)
Mzz Reese 9 PM, Dr. J’s Place, 3421 W. Chicago, free, 21+
Corey Dennison 9:10 PM (two sets), Miller Lite Beer Garden, Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand, free, all ages
