By Edelia J. Carthan, Ed.D,
Contributing Writer,
Jackson Indie Music Week, a dynamic celebration of Central Mississippi’s independent music scene, recently concluded its ninth edition with unprecedented success. This week-long festival, held from January 7 to January 14, has grown into a significant event on the entertainment calendar of Mississippi, a state often hailed as the “Birthplace of America’s Music.”
Featuring a diverse lineup of concerts, showcases, panels and parties, the festival highlights creatives from all genres including Rock, Hip Hop, Blues, Singer-Songwriter, and Independent Film & Video.
Brad “Kamikaze” Franklin, the founder of Jackson Indie Music Week, expressed immense satisfaction with the turnout of the festival’s ninth year. “I feel very very encouraged, and I feel very satisfied with the turnout,” Franklin stated.
He was particularly pleased with the growth in attendance and participation. “This was our ninth year and probably our most attended. The numbers continue to grow. We had the most artists that we have ever had. We had 9 artists that traveled from outside of Mississippi, from the east coast to California to Florida. The attendance has been great, and we are looking forward to even better in year 10.”
When asked about his aspirations for those who attend Jackson Indie Music Week, Franklin’s vision was clear and ambitious. “I want people to know that Jackson is the epicenter for music in the South,” he said. Emphasizing the city’s pivotal role in the musical landscape, he added, “Jackson is the crossroad. Our music history and our musical talent is our greatest export outside of the great people here. We are not who they think we are. Jackson Indie Music Week is a part of changing and controlling the narrative. We are excited about it. Year 10 is coming up in January 2025, and it’s going to be a big one.”
The festival’s program was as diverse as its vision. Events included a kick-off party, blues Monday, a self-care dialogue for artists, an all woman showcase, icon awards, culture concert, panel discussions, a day party, a film and video showcase, and the official wrap party.
The event also honored various icons for their contributions, including Alice Marie of WJMI, Visit Jackson, Visit Mississippi and The Central MS Blues Society.
The range of artists performing during the week was a testament to the festival’s commitment to diversity in music. Notable performers included Columbus Toy from Belzoni, MS, Suave C, Will April and ZVN from Jackson, MS, Elsie from Hattiesburg, MS, Big JD from Raymond, MS, NU from Birmingham, AL, The III Relatives from Baton Rouge, LA and Chicago, and Crash
G from Aurora, Colorado. This lineup showcased the rich tapestry of talent that the South, and particularly Mississippi, has to offer.
Jackson Indie Music Week not only celebrates the vibrant independent music scene in Mississippi but also serves as a beacon for narrative change about the state’s cultural and musical heritage.
As it approaches its tenth year, the festival continues to grow, drawing artists and audiences from across the nation, solidifying Jackson’s position as a central hub for music in the South.
Jackson Indie Music Week is more than just a festival; it’s a movement. It’s a beacon of artistic expression, a gathering of talent, and a celebration of Mississippi’s enduring impact on the music world.
As Brad Kamikaze” Franklin envisioned, it’s a fitting tribute to the state’s rich musical heritage, a heritage that continues to resonate and inspire across the globe.
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