Outstanding Artists to perform
James Armstrong
Signature Smooth Style
Born into a musical family in 1957 in Los Angeles, James Armstrong had blues music in his blood from the very start. His Mom was a blues singer, his Dad played jazz guitar. Armstrong formed his first band in the 7th grade, and by age 17 he was touring the country.
James would start making waves on the local California blues circuit by his 20s, becoming the youngest member of Smokey Wilson’s band. In the 1980s, James was a founding member of the band Mama Roo and received his first recording contract for Crescendo Records.
In the early 90s, James got plenty of exposure from his musical influences, including Albert Collins, and Sam Taylor. Shortly after that, he was discovered and signed by HighTone Records owner Bruce Bromberg, who had discovered and signed Robert Cray and Joe Louis Walker.
James was also noticed by the music industry, having songs in three major motion pictures. “Bank of Love” was used in Hear No Evil, with Martin Sheen and Marlee Matlin. “Two Sides to Every Story” was featured in Speechless with Michael Keaton and Geena Davis, and also in The Florentine with Jeremy Davies and Luke Perry
Armstrong continues to tour extensively. He pays tribute to the past with the traditional blues, and his unique songwriting skills. Using both slide and pick, James’ guitar playing is some of the smoothest in the business. James regularly brings his vibrant and welcoming live shows to people around the globe.
Fast Eddie & the Slowpokes
Blues, Soul, Rock n’ Roll
Fast Eddie & The Slowpokes are guaranteed to get you up on your feet! The Slowpokes playlist is inspired by classic blues material from Chicago to West Coast Swing, Motown to Muscle Shoals, and all the rock n’ roll in
between.
Fast Eddie & The Slowpokes have performed from Philly to Memphis, from The Kennedy Center to festivals to roadhouses. They have shared the stage with Mark Hummel, Victor Wainwright (2016 BMA Entertainer of the Year), The Nighthawks, Junior Watson, Big Joe & The Dynaflows, The Andy T Band, Jimmy Thackery, and Phil Pemberton of Roomful of Blues. They won the 2016 and 2012 DC Blues Society Battle of the Bands and represented the DC Blues Society at the 2017 and 2013 The International Blues Challenge in Memphis! In 2017, they were Semi-Finalists at the International Blues Challenge! In 2024, they were finalists for Best Blues Band by the Maryland Music Awards.
Baltimore Blues Society FAQ’s & Things to Know:
The “Down Home Blues Party” is an all-afternoon adult event filled with live music and friends brought to you by the members of the Baltimore Blues Society. We want everyone to enjoy a wonderful afternoon. Here are some helpful guidelines.
NO PETS, NO FIREARMS PLEASE
Parking: There is plenty of parking at the Marco Hunting and Fishing Club – 1307 Wilson Point Rd., Baltimore MD 21220. Please park in the designated parking areas only. Parking staff will be on hand to direct you to the appropriate parking areas. Doors at 1 pm. Music begins at 2 pm.
Ticketing: When you purchase your ticket, you may reserve a place at a particular table. If you purchase your ticket online, please have a printed copy of your receipt ready at the door. All tables will be numbered. There will be open seating for those who choose to purchase their ticket at the door via credit card or cash. All sales are final. The event is rain or shine, no refunds. Please check with your tax expert for tax deduction instructions as the Baltimore Blues Society is a 501(c3) non-profit corporation.
Food: There will be food for sale by Chesapeake Smoke BBQ. BYOB and coolers are allowed inside the event area. Cans or plastic please. Please help by removing your table trash at the end of the event.
WE LOOK FORWARD TO YOU JOINING US TO ENJOY THE BLUES TOGETHER!