Son House Tribute Festival
Jontavious Willis
Erin Harpe
Cash’s Juke Joint
MAY 28 - 30, 2026
CLARKSDALE, MS
Lineup
Jontavious Willis
Jontavious Willis is a Grammy-nominated blues artist from rural Georgia, whose music is deeply rooted in tradition while bringing a fresh, modern energy to the genre.
He began performing in church with his grandfather, and his passion for the blues took off at age 14 after discovering Muddy Waters. His talent quickly gained attention, earning him the nickname “Wonderboy” from blues legend Taj Mahal, who invited him to perform alongside him. Jontavious later joined Taj Mahal and Keb’ Mo’ on their national TajMo tour.
His debut album Blue Metamorphosis won the International Blues Challenge for Best Self-Produced CD, and his Grammy-nominated follow-up, Spectacular Class, showcases his dynamic range across multiple blues styles.
A rising star blending deep roots with a vibrant, modern sound.
Erin Harpe
Erin Harpe is an award-winning blues artist, educator, and multi-instrumentalist based in Boston. Deeply influenced by legends like Mississippi John Hurt, her fingerstyle guitar work blends traditional country blues with a modern, soulful feel.
Her latest release, Let The Mermaids Flirt With Me: A Tribute to Mississippi John Hurt, is a stripped-down, heartfelt project recorded with her husband and musical partner, Jim Countryman.
Erin leads the acclaimed blues band Erin Harpe & the Delta Swingers, and has also released multiple albums across genres, showcasing her versatility as a performer and producer. Her work has earned national recognition, including a Boston Music Award win and multiple nominations, as well as features on shows like Shameless and No Reservations.
A dynamic performer carrying the blues tradition forward with skill, heart, and authenticity.
Cash’s Juke Joint
Angel “Cash” Ocasio, Jr., a standout from the Macon, Georgia music scene, is the founder and driving force behind Cash’s Juke Joint.
Blending Blues, Sacred Steel, Soul, Funk, and Rock, the band delivers a powerful, groove-heavy sound that’s guaranteed to get you moving.
Based in the historic music city of Macon, Cash’s Juke Joint is made up of seasoned musicians who have performed everywhere from nightclubs and festivals to major stages. They’ve shared the spotlight with artists like Patti LaBelle, Jill Scott, The Wailers, and more.
High-energy, genre-blending blues with serious stage presence.
Deak Harp
Deak Harp has been playing harmonica since the age of 12, inspired by blues legend James Cotton. After following Cotton’s band along the East Coast, Deak joined the James Cotton Blues Band, touring for six years and sharing the stage with the “Superharp” himself.
A versatile and high-energy performer, Deak blends Chicago blues with Mississippi Hill Country grit, creating a raw, driving sound rooted in tradition. His performances have taken him across the country and onto international stages, earning a reputation as a powerful force in modern blues.
A high-energy bluesman delivering grit, groove, and tradition.
Watermelon Slim
Watermelon Slim (Bill Homans) is known for his raw, powerful blues and unmistakable voice. Blending slide guitar, gritty harmonica, and deeply personal storytelling, his music captures the spirit of workingman blues like few others.
A highly respected figure in the blues world, Slim has earned multiple award nominations and critical acclaim, with albums topping blues charts and recognition from publications like MOJO, Paste, and Living Blues. He has been featured on NPR’s All Things Considered and the BBC World Service.
A true bluesman with a sound rooted in tradition and lived experience.
The Second Annual Son House Tribute Festival returns to Clarksdale, Mississippi on May 28–30, 2026.
Born in the Clarksdale area in 1903, Son House was a Delta blues legend whose influence still shapes music today. He mentored icons like Muddy Waters and Robert Johnson, and his sound can be heard in artists such as Bonnie Raitt, Jack White, and Taj Mahal.
After stepping away from music in the 1940s, Son House was rediscovered in 1964, leading to a powerful late-career revival. That story is captured in the documentary Two Trains Runnin', which will return to this year’s festival.
This year’s lineup celebrates both legacy and the future of the blues, featuring:
Jontavious Willis (Grammy-nominated)
Erin Harpe (2026 Blues Music Award nominee)
Angel “Cash” Ocasio (Cash’s Juke Joint)
Watermelon Slim
Together, these artists represent the next generation of blues while staying deeply rooted in the tradition Son House helped define.
The festival will also highlight incredible local Delta talent, with more artists to be announced soon.
Schedule
3 pm: Live performances by Bear Ryan, Ray Cashman, Lucious Spiller, Chris Mullins, Kwan Kash, and some more great local legends! TBA!
Location: The Blue Room (216 3rd St.) Admission: $10
Thursday
May 28
3 pm: “Two Trains Runnin” documentary screening, Son House performance screening, and panel discussion. Location: The Blue Room (216 3rd St.) FREE.
Friday
May 29
7 pm: Live performance by Cash’s Juke Joint, Deak Harp, and Watermelon Slim
Location: Hambone Art Gallery (111 E 2nd St.) Admission $20.
8 pm: Live performance by Jontavious Willis and Erin Harpe
Location: The Holy Moly (218 3rd St.) Admission $25.
Saturday
May 30
The Travelers Hotel is the official lodging partner for the Son House Tribute Festival,
graciously hosting visiting musicians during the celebration.
