Brittany Howard, Buddy Guy, Jimmie Vaughan, and More Light Up Austin Blues Festival

The city of Austin, Texas, known for being a vibrant hub of live music, exceeded expectations as the Austin Blues Festival returned to Waterloo Park for a second year. The Festival, organised by team Antone’s, spanned over two days of enthralling performances from renowned blues artists worldwide.

Return to Waterloo Park

The Austin Blues Festival, founded in 1999 by nightclub proprietor Clifford Antone, returned to Waterloo Park following a substantial redesign. This event was primarily booked by Live Nation at the revamped Moody Amphitheater. The return of the festival reaffirmed its role as a pivotal platform for live blues performances in Texas.

Day One: Buddy Guy and Jimmie Vaughan take stage

On the first day of the Festival, the music scene was set ablaze by captivating performances, particularly from Buddy Guy and Jimmie Vaughan. Guy, a Louisiana born blues guitarist, and Vaughan, a Texas stalwart, showcased their seasoned expertise and charisma, pleasing the crowd with their stellar performances.

Buddy Guy, despite being nearly 88 years old, still holds an irreplaceable position in the world of blues. His stage presence combined with his captivating performance, brought the crowd to cheers. Joining him on stage were the likes of 90-year-old singer/harpist Bobby Rush and Jimmie Vaughan, each contributing their unique flair to the performance.

Jimmie Vaughan and Soul Man Sam fire up the crowd

Following the exhilarating performance from Buddy Guy, Jimmie Vaughan – backed by his Tilt-A-Whirl Band – took the stage. Vaughan skillfully demonstrated that age is just a number as he catered to the crowd with his classic blues performances.

With local slinger Sue Foley, Vaughan performed a blazing rendition of Bo Diddley’s “Pretty Thing”. The duo was then joined by Soul Man Sam, whose renditions of “St. James Infirmary” and others left the audience mesmerized.

Nathan & the Zydeco Cha Chas Raise the Tempo

Adding a zesty touch to the festival, Nathan & the Zydeco Cha Chas put on an electrifying performance. The band, led by Nathan Williams, brought a pitch-perfect tone that correctly set the vibe for the day’s New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Fest.

Big Freedia Turns Up the Heat

One could not overlook the energy that Big Freedia brought to the Festival. Known for her iconic New Orleans bounce tracks, Freedia kept the crowd on their feet throughout her performance. By the time she wrapped up her set, it was clear to all that dance music was not just about sex, but fun.

Day Two: Brittany Howard Captivates

On the second day of the festival, Brittany Howard delivered an awe-inspiring performance that felt almost like a gospel sermon. The crowd was held captive as she performed powerful renditions from her albums ‘What Now’ (February release) and ‘Jaime’ amidst sharing profound messages of love and kindness.

The successful blues festival concluded on a high note, leaving a lasting impression on all attendees. The Austin Blues Festival continues to be a cherished celebration and preservation of the rich blues heritage, seen making a grand return in this post-pandemic era.