Visit Mississippi has unveiled a Mississippi Blues Trail Marker at Liverpool’s Iconic Cavern Club.
This historic marker will be the first permanent marker in the UK, symbolising the musical heritage shared between the birthplace of the blues, and the Beatles’ hometown.
It is a fitting memorial as the blues genre played a pivotal role in shaping the Beatles’ sound as well as other legendary bands such as Rolling Stones, Fleetwood Mac, Led Zeppelin, Yardbirds and others.
As part of the celebration, the Lord Mayor of Liverpool unveiled the marker and Rochelle Hicks (Tourism Director for Visit Mississippi), Julia Baird (John Lennon’s sister) and Jon Keats (Director of Cavern Club) welcomed the group to the Cavern Club last month.
The event featured a special live performance by award-winning Mississippi blues artist James ‘Super Chikan’ Johnson, known for his electrifying shows at Morgan Freeman’s Ground Zero Blues Club in Clarksdale.
The Mississippi delegation shared stories about the cultural and tourism ties between Liverpool and Mississippi.
” Visit Mississippi Director of Tourism, Rochelle Hicks said: “This famed venue is the perfect location for visitors to learn more about the musical connection between Mississippi and the British Isles, and we are thrilled to showcase it on the historic Mississippi Blues Trail.”
“We are excited to have a piece of the Mississippi Blues Trail here in the UK to inspire holidays to Mississippi, on itineraries that combine music with history, culture and outdoor adventure” added Jody Hanson, UK Chief Trade & Marketing Officer for Visit Mississippi.
The Mississippi Blues Trail celebrates the cultural impact of blues music by honouring the musicians, venues, and cultural landmarks across the state.
Administered by Visit Mississippi, the state-wide initiative showcases over 200 markers commemorating the roots of blues music in Mississippi
