"Searching for Jimmie Strother" - A Musical Lecture

In this "Musical Lecture" presentation, author, musician and historian Gregg Kimball takes us on a musical and visual journey through the gritty, long forgotten world that gave birth to the blues. The program includes a slide presentation along with live performances of Strother’s music, bringing his voice and story to life. Gregg will discuss his findings and the research leading up to the publication of his book, "Searching for Jimmie Strother - A Tale of Music, Murder and Mystery" which included meetings and interviews with Strother's descendants. An enigmatic figure, Jimmie Strothers was recorded in 1935 by folklorist John Lomax while serving a prison term for a crime committed in Culpeper County (Gregg will reveal the details!) Through these recordings, Strother's repertoire of comedic ditties, spirituals and blues tunes reached a wide range of listeners, and were later covered by musicians like Pete Seeger and Jefferson Airplane. Jimmie Strother's powerful songs continue to influence, and remain deeply relevant, to American culture.

Gregg will be joined by blues musicians Sheryl Warner and Rick Manson. There'll be light refreshments and an opportunity to chat and ask questions. Copies of Gregg's book will be available for purchase, and this is your chance to get an autographed copy if you so desire! Admission is $5.00 (no advance tickets). There is plenty of parking, and the venue is accessible to all.

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