Hubby Jenkins of Carolina Chocolate Drops

Hubby Jenkins is a Grammy-nominated artist, multi-instrumentalist, and former member of the legendary Carolina Chocolate Drops, celebrated for his riveting performances that honor and illuminate the African American roots of old-time American music.

Born and raised in Brooklyn, Jenkins grew up playing saxophone and bass before discovering the powerful, haunting sounds of Skip James and Bukka White. That discovery sparked a profound journey into the essential—but too often overlooked—role of Black musicians in shaping the foundations of American folk, blues, and country music.

What began as NYC busking led to performances in coffeehouses and bars, eventually landing him a spot in the Carolina Chocolate Drops (2010–2016). During his time with the group, Jenkins contributed guitar, banjo, bones, and vocals to their groundbreaking work. Their album Leaving Eden earned a Grammy nomination for Best Folk Album, and the group played a central role in the modern revival of Black string band music. Jenkins later performed with the Rhiannon Giddens Band, deepening his impact on the genre’s resurgence.

In 2015, Jenkins was nominated for Instrumentalist of the Year at the Americana Awards, solidifying his reputation as one of the most compelling and knowledgeable interpreters of traditional Black American music working today. With a deep love for history and an electrifying stage presence, Hubby Jenkins brings audiences on a journey through the roots of the blues, old-time, folk, and early Americana—music that is not just performed, but lived. Don’t miss this unforgettable evening with Hubby Jenkins, a master musician keeping the spirit and story of America’s earliest roots music vividly alive.

SAMPLE SONG

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