South Bend Blues & Ribs Festival

Join us for some of the BEST blues, ribs, and good times; all to raise money and awareness for special needs facilities and programming. The South Bend Blues & Ribs Festival begins with gates opening 2:00 p.m. E.D.T., on Saturday, June 22nd, at Coveleski Regional Stadium . (stadium directions)

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This year's headline act is Kim Wilson and The Fabulous Thunderbirds. For over 30 years, The Fabulous Thunderbirds have been the quintessential American band. The group’s distinctive and powerful sound, influenced by a diversity of musical styles, manifested itself into a unique musical hybrid via such barnburners as “Tuff Enuff” and “Wrap It Up”. Co-founder Kim Wilson, the sole original member, still spearheads the group as it evolves into its newest incarnation.

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Also performing this year is special guest star Ana Popovic with Mo Better Love.  Ana was born in Belgrade (formerly Yugoslavia).  She brings a very distinctive style to her act that ranges from rock and funk; to blues and soul. Ana has been nominated for 3 times for the Music Blues Awards, and most recently in 2012 for Blues Female Artist of the Year.  Her show is one you definitely do not want to miss. 

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Coming from Kansas City is another performer at this year's Blues and Ribs Festival named Trampled Under Foot.  The band consists of three siblings Danielle, Kris, and Nick Schnebelen.  2012 was a huge year for the band as they were nominated for 3 Music Blues Awards, winners of the Pitch Music Awards Best Blues Band, and named Blues Blast Music Awards Band of the Year.   

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Out of Kalamazoo, Michigan is J.R. Clark. He is a protege' of Lil' Ed Williams.  Clark brings all his influences of Lil' Ed, Luther Allison, Michael Burks, Magic Slim, Larry McCray, and stirs it up in a pot to create a hot dish of his own rockin blues. 

All funds that are raised from this event will support future programing and operations at Miracle Park, a uniquely designed facility for special needs individuals provided by the South Bend Parks and Recreation Department.