Celebrate Blues Pioneer Sleepy John Estes’ 125th Birthday with Free Songwriting Workshop and Jam Session at West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center

The West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center in Brownsville will host a free songwriting workshop and acoustic jam session on January 27, 2024. The event, named Sleepy John’s Country Blues Jam, is in honor of Blues pioneer 'Sleepy' John Adam Estes' birthday. The workshop, starting at 10 a.m., will be led by Blues singer/songwriter Elam McKnight. It will cover Blues song structure, styles, chord progressions, and lyrics. Attendees, regardless of musical ability, are encouraged to bring their instruments.

The acoustic jam session will start at 11 a.m. It is open to all, with or without instruments. The session aims to create an inclusive environment for music enthusiasts.

Estes, born on January 25, 1899, near Ripley, Tenn., was a key figure in the Blues genre. His recordings are considered authentic 'country blues' examples.

The event will also celebrate Estes' 125th birthday with cake. A qualifying round for the Tennessee Songwriters Week competition will start at 1 p.m. Pre-registration is required for competition participants.

The West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center showcases rural West Tennessee's history and culture. It houses the Tina Turner Museum at Flagg Grove School and the last home of Sleepy John Estes. The center is part of the Americana Music Triangle, connecting Nashville, Memphis, and New Orleans.

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