A Special Thursday XPN Free At Noon Double Header - Live from the 2013 NonCOMMvention

Keeping the Blues Alive with Homemade Jamz Blues Band

The local music scene in Tupelo, Mississippi, has received a new addition to its network of talented artists with a young family band excelling in the genre of blues. Homemade Jamz Blue Band, consisting of Ryan (guitar/vocals), Kyle (bass) and Taya (drums), captivates listeners with irresistibly catchy and modern compilations of folk music. From their quirky collection of instruments,assembled with auto mufflers, to their unforgettably soulful aura, the Homemade Jamz Blue Band is one group not to overlook.

Having released their debut album Pay Me No Mind on Northern Blues in 2008, the trio successfully became one of the most talked about groups in the blues scene. Inspired by renowned acts like B.B. King, Albert King and Stevie Ray Vaughan, The Homemade Jamz Blue Band impressed scores of music critics at the 2007 International Blues Challenge in Memphis, where the group placed second among 100 other bands. With a new album, Mississippi Hill Country set for release on May 15, 2013, the winners of "Band or Combo of the Year" at Ju's Blues Music Award will delight music lovers in Philadelphia with a special Free At Noon performance on Thursday, May 16, 2013 during the NonCOMMvention!

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Born in a Small Town Within the Mississippi Delta "Super Chikan" James Johnson
Channels the Rich and Diverse Music of the Region

Known by his stage name Super Chikan, singer-songwriter James Johnson, came from a humble family background. Fascinated by his family's love for music, Johnson started to develop his artistic talent by building and playing the diddly bow - a rather popular one string instrument also recognized as the "jitterbug." As the years progressed, Johnson continued to experiment with numerous other instruments such as the guitar and bass, pushing him to publically share his music at venues across the Mississippi Delta. In 1997, Johnson released his debut album, Blues Come Home to Roost on Rooster Blues, which garnered critical-acclaim for its uniquely composed medleys and exhilarating yet edgy Delta Blues style.

Throughout his career, Johnson has been consistently applauded for his efforts in promoting blues music around the world. Having performed worldwide, he has also earned prestigious awards for his talent such as the 'Blues Music Award' for Traditional Blues Album of the Year in 2010 to even receiving multiple critics award from the reputable blues magazine, 'Living Blues.' Known for his frequent performances at Morgan Freeman's Ground Zero blues club, Johnson will grace blues lovers in Philadelphia with an exceptionally special performance at XPN's Free At Noon concert, part of the Mississippi Blues Project. Expected to provide listeners will a haunting yet electrifying performance blues, this Free At Noon is one event not to miss.