MillaJohn is a nickname I had in my earliest childhood in Tuskegee, Alabama. Blues and soul music have been deeply woven into my experience growing up all over the southeastern United States, especially during my years in Memphis, Tennessee.
I created MillaJohn’s BlueSoul to share my joy in presenting music that truly touches my soul, along with some of the very best musicians I’ve had the pleasure of creating with during my 50+ years of performing and recording.
I first performed in Montgomery, Alabama, in 1973, and over the years, I’ve been in bands that called Memphis (TN), Virginia, and— for the longest time—Florida, home. The music of those bands has covered everything from the deepest blues to punk, soul, classic rock, jam, rhythm & blues, and basically anything that has a groove.
I always wear overalls when I perform with MillaJohn’s BlueSoul. They take me back to my youth when I used to wear a cut-off pair regularly, bringing memories of red clay and the deep soil of the South where this music comes from. They also harken back to many artists like Buddy Guy and Elvin Bishop who have worn overalls to play the Blues.
MillaJohn’s BlueSoul has had the pleasure of opening for JJ Gray and performing at the Springing The Blues and Dancin’ in the Streets festivals. We focus on the electric Chicago sounds of Muddy Waters, Willie Dixon, and Buddy Guy, as well as Memphis soul like Rufus Thomas. You’re also likely to hear some Mississippi Fred McDowell, Freddie King, and Big Mama Thornton. In addition, we have an original repertoire of songs that feel like you’ve heard them before.
MillaJohn’s BlueSoul is scheduled for two concerts in Jacksonville Beach this spring:
Sunday, April 6, 2025 – Springing the Blues Festival, Noon
Thursday, May 8, 2025 – Beaches Museum Chapel Concert Series, 7:00 pm Hope to see you there!
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Glenn is the founder and publisher of First Coast Life. He is also a wonderful storyteller. Born on the 4th of July, he spends his spare time taking his camera and exploring everything beautiful this region offers with his rescue dog Callie by his side. He loves meeting new people and capturing the many beautiful moments and amazing local stories that showcase the true spirit of the area.
