2012 Chicago Blues Festival to be held in Grant Park June 8-10

The Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) has released the complete lineup, including the artists performing on the popular Bud Light Crossroads Stage, Mississippi Juke Joint and the Pepsi Front Porch Stage, for the 2012 Chicago Blues Festival, to be held in Grant Park June 8-10. In January, the festival announced Grammy® winner Mavis Staples will headline at the Petrillo Music Shell on Sunday, June 1, along with Texas Johnny Brown on June 8 and Floyd Taylor on June 9.

The day stages add to the festival’s reputation as an internationally acclaimed and free admission event.  The 2012 line-up celebrates the genre’s rich tradition and heritage. At the Mississippi Juke Joint Stage on Friday, June 8 the festival will kick off its centennial celebration of Lightnin’ Hopkins with a panel discussion at 11:30 a.m.  Lightnin’ Hopkins was a legendary blues singer and songwriter from Houston, Texas best known for his unique guitar style.  Named as one of the top 100 guitarists by Rolling Stone, Hopkins died in 1982. 

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