to channel their melancholy feelings. Traced back to 1912, this music genre has played a significant part in American
society. Many Blues' festivals occur throughout the country, but the one in Navasota, Texas, is of special importance.
(April 9, 1895-January 30, 1976) near Navasota, but he later took the name of "Mance" from emancipation. He was an
American Blues singer and guitarist, playing locally for years near Navasota until around 1960. To honor this local leg-
end, the Blues Fest started in 1996, followed by the Blues, Bluebonnets, and BBQ Festival in 2010. In 2011, his statue
was erected in what eventually became downtown's Mance Lipscomb Park.
downtown's Mance Lipscomb Park on April 13, 2013. The festival will showcase various musicians, along with food
and drink options. This free event, for adults and kids alike, occurs in close proximity to Mance's statue. It is here that
Mance sits on the bench and plays his guitar eternally, so it is fitting that the musicians will be playing alongside him to
celebrate and honor his life.
and take home a record or an antique radio to solidify their love for this genre. Visitors
should also tour the unique shops and restaurants downtown where live music is per-
formed on Friday nights. According to Bert Miller, Mayor of Navasota, "Having
the Blues, Bluebonnets and BBQ event every April in Navasota is a great way
to salute the Blues Capital of Texas and honor our very own bluesman, Mance
Lipscomb, on his birthday each year. It's also an opportunity to hear some
fabulous blues bands with friends and family in our historic down-
town area."
August in the Grimes County Expo Fairgrounds Center, a few
miles east of town, according to Russell Cushman, Manager of
Blues Alley. The Blues Fest showcases a variety of musicians
and is a family-friendly festival. The Expo Center provides
space and comfort with its air-conditioned building, along
with a variety of food and drink options. CDs and t-shirts
are available to purchase to remember the event. The
Blues Fest and the Blues, Bluebonnets, and BBQ Festival
provide a truly unforgettable and inviting experience for
any music lover.
then they realize it is something they have heard and
loved all of their lives..." - Russell Cushman