The second annual Bessie Smith Heritage Festival returns to grounds of the Chattanooga African American Museum located at 200 E.. Martin Luther King Boulevard on Saturday, August 22 from 3:30 pm – midnight.

This year’s feature artists include: legendary jazz artist, Roy Ayers; jazz and funk musician, Tom Browne; renowned R&B singer and song writer, Angela Winbush; internationally acclaimed blues artist, Vasti Jackson; Nashville’s contemporary jazz saxophonist, Joe Johnson, Leela James and Anthony David, R&B and soul artists and Chattanooga jazz musician, Frank B.

Not only will festival goers have an opportunity to celebrate diverse musical culture, they will also have an opportunity to learn about and celebrate visual arts as museum officials are including Artists in Motion in this year’s festival. Artists in Motion gives nationally recognized artists a chance to participate in the festival by creating art around the themes of music played by the featured artists.

“It is the mission of the Bessie Smith Heritage Festival to expose and entertain a diverse audience of music lovers to a unique blend of culture, music, arts, and food,” said Erskine Oglesby, Chairman of the Bessie Smith Heritage Festival. “We encourage all residents of Chattanooga and the surrounding areas to attend as the festival will offer something for everyone.”

Tickets for the outdoor music festival are $35 in advance and $40 at the gate. Reserved tables are also available. Tickets may be purchased online at www.bessiesmithheritagefestival.com or at one of the following ticket outlets:

Chattanooga African American Museum

Brewer Media Group
1305 Carter Street

Premier Beauty Supply
5312 Brainerd Road

Mary’s Lounge
2125 McCallie Avenue

Café Lemont’s
801 Dodds Avenue

For more information about the festival or to inquire about sponsorship and vendor opportunities, call (423) 266-8658 or email bessiesmithheritagefestival@yahoo.com

Photo of Anthony David, via anthonydavidmusic.com.