IF YOU GO* What: Post-Strut Party featuring Eric Steckel and the Soul Rebels.* When: 9 tonight (immediately following the Bessie Smith Strut).* Where: Bessie Smith Cultural Center, 200 E. M.L. King Blvd.* Admission: $5.* Phone: 266-8658.* Website: www.caamhistory.org.
Riverbend is nine nights of music by more than 100 artists, but the Bessie Smith Strut can offer something just a little different.
Born in 1981, the Strut features blues and barbecue along M.L. King Boulevard, celebrating the spirit of the Empress of the Blues. And, said Andy Tallent, public relations director for Friends of the Festival, it’s a night for the whole community.
“It draws people from all walks of life together,” he said. “It might be the only time paths cross that year.”
Whereas other nights at Riverbend require a pin for admission, the Bessie Smith Strut is free. Mr. Tallent said he hopes Chattanoogans will come down for “a fun time to rock out to good blues music.”
This year, strutters can listen to the sounds of Kenny Neal, Otis Taylor and Scott Holt on one stage, or Eric Steckel and the Soul Rebels on another.
Immediately following the Strut, the Bessie Smith Cultural Center will keep the party going with a post-event party. Mr. Steckel (who also will participate in an Eat & Greet at Bluewater Grille at noon) and the Soul Rebels will move inside from their outdoor stage on the boulevard, allowing audience members to be up close and personal with the musicians.
“It’ll be a little bit more intimate,” said Carmen Davis, curator and education director at the cultural center.