Mississippi
Music Scene
“The Mississippi Blues Trail markers tell stories through words and images of bluesmen and women and how the places where they lived and the times in which they existed–and continue to exist–influenced their music. The sites run the gamut from city streets to cotton fields, train depots to cemeteries, and clubs to churches. We have a lot to share, and it’s just down the Mississippi Blues Trail.”
As a stop on the Mississippi Blues Trail & with visitors such as Elvis Presley, it’s easy to see that Ocean Springs has a very strong musical culture. Notable African-American musician born in Ocean Springs, Jaimoe (Johnnie Lee Johnson) was a founding member of the Allman Brothers band. In 1995, Jaimoe and the other founding members of the Allman Brothers Band were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and, in 2017, Jaimoe received the Lifetime Achievement Award in the Arts from Mississippi.
Nowadays, it’s hard to miss out on the boisterous music life that adorns our downtown streets. You can find any type of tunes from low-fi, hip-hop beats to the fun and funky hits at Government Street Grocery. If you’re into a more distinctly Southern feel stop by Murky Waters BBQ, The Julep Room, or Mississippi Juke Joint. Find lively covers at Glory Bound, Mosaic, and Neon Moon, especially during the weekend! Of course, if you want a more acoustic and intimate vibe, check out The Office or The Wilbur for some softer tunes. So get on out and get to listening! All you really have to do is follow your ears.
And if you’re in the Biloxi area, don’t miss out on Ground Zero Blues Club! Co-owned by THE Morgan Freeman, the club opened in 2021 and offers food, drinks, dancing, and music in an unforgettable atmosphere.