HOUSTON – Houston’s deep blues heritage takes the spotlight once again at the third annual Houston Bluesfest, happening Saturday, Nov. 8, at East River 9.
The festival celebrates the city’s musical roots—especially the legacy of Houston’s historic Fifth Ward and the legendary Duke Peacock Studio—while inspiring a new generation of artists.
Watch the video above for an exclusive interview with festival founder Tracy DeJarnett of HoustonLive® and award-winning bluesman Jonn Del Toro Richardson, along with a live performance of Richardson’s unreleased song, “Golden Rule.”
A Festival With Heart and Heritage
Created by DeJarnett, Houston Bluesfest honors the artists who shaped the city’s blues identity and the community that continues to keep it alive. As founder of HoustonLive® and a member of the City of Houston’s Music Advisory Board, DeJarnett has invested more than $250,000 into Houston’s creative economy, supporting local musicians, venues and cultural projects that connect people through live music.
Music, Art and Dance Collide
This year’s festival features powerhouse performances from Texas blues icons and rising stars, including Trudy Lynn, Hamilton Loomis, Van Wilks, Allison Fisher, Leonard “Lowdown” Brown and Jonn Del Toro Richardson.
The event also expands beyond the stage with Bayou Blues, a multimedia collaboration with Art Uniti that fuses music, art and movement. Highlights include:
- “Peacock Crossroads,” a sculpture by Tami Moschioni honoring the Duke Peacock Recording Studio
- “Peacock Blues,” a modern dance performance by Adam Castaneda and the Pilot Dance Troupe
- “Fifth Ward Blues,” a short film by Melelani Petersen celebrating Houston’s African American musical pioneers
The project is funded by a City of Houston SACI grant through the Houston Arts Alliance.
Join the Celebration
With its mix of live performances, visual art and community spirit, Houston Bluesfest continues to evolve as one of the city’s most dynamic cultural events.
“Houston Life” viewers can get 15% off tickets with code HL15 at checkout. Click here to get your tickets.
Houston Bluesfest 2025
- Saturday, Nov. 8
- 4 – 9:30 p.m.
- East River 9 / Riverhouse Houston
- 65 Hirsch Road
- 15% off tickets with code HL15
Visit houstonbluesfest.com for tickets and event details.