The continuous effort to grow Chattanooga’s music scene was met with a huge announcement last summer when Knoxville, Tennessee-based AC Entertainment was chosen to take over management of the Memorial Auditorium and Tivoli Theatre. The two Chattanooga major venues had been underutilized for years, and the company that produces Bonnaroo was eager to step up to the plate and change things.
If there happened to be any doubters, AC hushed that sentiment in less than two months with announcements of big shows coming to downtown Chattanooga. One of the most exciting announcements came in early August when it was learned that Gary Clark Jr. will make his way to the Scenic City to perform at the Tivoli on Wednesday, Feb. 24. His skyrocket to popularity over the past few years has been refreshing for the blues genre. Even though Clark mixes elements of R&B, soul and hip-hop into his studio albums, he has been mostly celebrated for his live shows where he shines playing his version of gritty blues rock, complemented by his soulful vocals. And although he has recently become more of a household name, his rise to success has actually been a long journey.
Hailing from the live music mecca of Austin, Texas, Clark began playing the Austin bar scene as a teenager. Now in his early 30s, he commands the stage just like an artist who has been doing this for a long time. Creating a bridge between many music genres, the pureness of his passion and delivery for live music is finally being shared in a much larger spotlight, and it seems his journey – and rise – will only continue.
Out on tour in celebration of his latest album release in late-2015 titled The Story of Sonny Boy Slim, Chattanooga is in for an explosive blues rock treat. We wanted it, we asked for it – so go out and support it!
New Music Playlist