The Nightfall Concert Series continues its 25th year of summer musical programming Friday with a headline show by Walter “Wolfman” Washington. The opening act is Deacon Bluz and The Holy Smoke Band. These free shows are held each Friday at Miller Plaza, now through Aug. 30. This will be the first year that Nightfall has extended its schedule while Riverbend is taking place.
Review for Walter "Wolfman" Washington:
Walter “Wolfman” Washington has been an icon on the New Orleans music scene for decades. His searing guitar work and soulful vocals have defined the city’s unique musical fusion of R&B, funk and the blues since the 1970s.
Throughout his career, Washington has worked with well-known New Orleans musicians such as vocalist Lee Dorsey, songstress Irma Thomas, legendary jazzman David Lastie’s Taste of New Orleans band, and vocalist Johnny Adams. Adams was a mentor of sorts to Washington, who developed his singing style while the two worked together at back-of-town clubs in New Orleans.
Like the greatest jazzmen, Washington channels his everyday life into his music, and each of his highly danceable shows is one-of-a-kind. Walter “Wolfman” Washington stands out in a city full of great musicians for his unique style and uncommon grace as a guitarist, bandleader and vocalist.
Nightfall’s opening act, Deacon Bluz and The Holy Smoke Band, are known to entertain audiences with their upbeat combination of blues, jazz, and old-school R&B. The band is fronted by UTC professor, Dr. Clark White, aka “Deacon Bluz,” who teaches the History of Blues. Together since 1997, the band’s mission is to preserve, present and perpetuate the legacy of true blues.
Presented and produced by Chattanooga Presents, Nightfall continues to bring an eclectic mix of music to downtown Chattanooga. Nightfall showcases the local arts community by featuring Chattanooga musicians for each opening act, beginning at 7 p.m., followed by performances by national and international talent beginning at 8 p.m. Beer, wine, food and non-alcoholic drink concessions are available on site. No outside food or beverages are allowed.
Booklets for discount beverage tickets, good for beer and wine, will be available on site now through the end of June. Each booklet contains 20 tickets and costs $80 (this is a savings of $20 from individually priced tickets). These tickets save time and money by allowing patrons to avoid the regular ticket lines at Nightfall, and simply get their ticket booklet and wristbands with a photo ID at the Express Line.
For more information on this free community concert series, call 265-0771 or visit NightfallChattanooga.com for a complete, interactive website that includes music samples by each headliner and other information for first-time attendees.