Pensacola MusicFest 2000

BY KEN GAILLOT

The second annual Pensacola MusicFest showcases an amazing line-up of blues talent, from legends like Sam Myers--who played music and made moonshine whiskey with Elmore James--to twenty-year-old sensation Chris Vincent, whose music will soon be featured on MTV's "Real World."

For those who think the blues is all about cryin' in your beer, this is a rare opportunity to get a musical education on everything from the souped-up funk of Walter 'Wolfman' Washington, to the jumpin' party sounds of Downchild Blues Band, to the ragtime Piedmont style of Cephas & Wiggins.

Included in this issue of Boogie Pensacola is the official MusicFest program as a pull-out section, with stage schedules and descriptions of all the musical acts.

Not only does the festival feature some of the top touring blues performers in the country, but it also celebrates the impressive blues talent we have here along the Gulf Coast. Local acts playing the festival include The Underdogs (whose music was recently used by ESPN), The Filthy Rich (who competed at this year's International Blues Challenge in Memphis), and Lynne Campbell (who has opened for Eric Clapton and B.B. King among others).

"MusicFest last year was phenomenal," said Elie Barnes, who braved the weather to see the first-ever Pensacola MusicFest in 1999. "I can't wait to go again this year. Little Jimmy King was great, and he's back again this time."

This year, the festival is at the Pensacola Fairgrounds. The new location provides two indoor climate-controlled stages--so the party can go on rain or shine--as well as more room for a classic/custom motorcycle and car show, and campsites.

Campsites? Yes, for the ultimate nonstop party experience, the three-day event offers free primitive camping, and RV hookups for a small fee. The Fairgrounds has lots of camping space for privacy, and plenty of showers available.

This year's MusicFest benefits the Blues Society of Northwest Florida and the Escambia County Volunteer Firefighters. The firefighters will have a recruiting table set up with information and brochures. If you've ever thought about becoming a volunteer firefighter, this is a good chance to meet some current firefighters and find out more about it.

Advance three-day passes to the festival are $25. Students and military can get advance passes for $20. See the coupon on this page for $5 off a three-day pass--be sure to call them by Friday to get the best rate. Single-day tickets will be available at the gate, $10 for Friday and Sunday, and $15 for Saturday.

The second annual Pensacola MusicFest will be held April 7 through 9, 2000, at the Pensacola Interstate Fairgrounds. For more information, contact Florida Events International at 850-435-6799.