Leyla McCalla, Bobby Rush at the Freight

Name: Leyla McCalla, Bobby Rush at the Freight
Start: 2024-12-14T20:00:00-07:00
Location: Freight & Salvage

Schedule

Sat Dec 14 2024 at 08:00 pm

UTC-07:00

Location

Freight & Salvage | Berkeley, CA

Freight & Salvage is proud to present the inaugural DeFord Bailey Legacy Festival, honoring the harmonica virtuoso’s impactful legacy as the first Black star of the Grand Ole Opry.
Curated by Grammy® award-winning artist Dom Flemons, Artistic Director Peter Williams, and Director of Education PC Muñoz – this 3-day festival includes talks, workshops, interviews, free community events, and evening concerts. The Freight also presents an exhibit of art and craft in partnership with the Downtown Berkeley Library, celebrating the history of Black cowboys in the United States, curated by Vania Kinard.
Learn more about the event on our DeFord Bailey Legacy Festival page.
Save with a DeFord Bailey Legacy Festival 3-Day Pass!
Leyla McCalla
Genre: Folk, Afro-Diasporic, Roots Music
Leyla McCalla, born in New York City to Haitian émigrés, draws profound inspiration from her rich heritage and diverse musical landscape. A master of cello, tenor banjo, and guitar, McCalla creates a distinctive sound that marries her roots with contemporary influences. Her latest album, Sun Without the Heat, is a vibrant exploration of joy and transformation, blending Afrobeat, Ethiopian modalities, and American folk traditions. With powerful narratives, her previous album, Breaking the Thermometer, highlights the brave journalists of Radio Haiti, emphasizing the importance of a free press. As a member of Our Native Daughters and the Carolina Chocolate Drops, McCalla’s music resonates with history while advocating for social change through her poignant lyrics and innovative soundscapes.
Bobby Rush
Genre: Blues, R&B
Bobby Rush, a three-time Grammy-winning legend and Blues Hall of Famer, is a vibrant force in the music scene, even at 89 years old. Known for his electrifying stage presence, Rush effortlessly leaps and spins, captivating audiences with his dynamic performances. With a career spanning nearly 70 years and over 400 recordings, he’s celebrated for his unique blend of traditional blues and funk. His latest album, All My Love For You, showcases heartfelt narratives that resonate with fans old and new. Rush’s journey from farm work in Louisiana to headlining festivals is a testament to his enduring spirit and commitment to the blues, advocating for its rightful place as the 'root' of all music. With a powerful voice and a playful approach to life and love, Rush continues to inspire and entertain, proving that age is just a number in the world of music.