**NELA Music Scene**
ANTHONY SHERROD (BIG A) & THE ALL STARS – GROUND ZERO BLUES CLUB
October 4, 2024, Clarksdale, MS
Nestled in the deep South on the fertile Mississippi Delta, Clarksdale, MS, is often regarded as one of the birthplaces of the blues genre. The Ground Zero Blues Club is situated in Clarksdale’s Historic Blues District. It’s an authentic juke joint where visitors can experience live blues performances amidst graffiti decor, iconic multicolored stage lighting, and the grit of a real blues venue.
I was headed to Columbia, MO, on business and made a minor detour to catch a performance by Big A & The All Stars. The sun had long since set when I arrived. I could hear the bass and drums pumping and pulsating as I got out of my car. The building seemed to shake and tremble as I walked to the main entrance. Once inside, my first thought was, “Wow!” A full-on blues revival was underway, and that’s where I wanted to be.
Vocalist and guitarist Anthony Sherrod led this musical journey, supported by Colfax, LA bassist Heather Crowe and drummer Lee Williams. Their soundscape was thick and rich in soulful textures. This three-piece ensemble sounded more like a five-piece, attributed to their skills, experience, and dedication. Singing songs like “Thrill is Gone,” “Ain’t No Sunshine,” and Sam Cooke’s “Frankie and Johnnie,” the audience was captivated.
Anthony was quite the entertainer taking his guitar into the crowd at one point. He had just finished singing Stevie Wonder’s “Happy Birthday” when he mentioned being the godson of Big Jack Johnson. It was like a lightning bolt struck. I recalled stumbling upon Big Jack Johnson years ago while researching the epic ice storm of 1994. He wrote a blues song titled “Ice Storm Blues.” I was completely in awe, what a special moment.
They closed out the show with the R&B anthem “The Roof is on Fire.” You know the song. Co-owner Morgan Freeman was not there, but I want him to know how much fun I had, as did the audience. It was a pleasure meeting you, Heather. I hope to see you again.
Tom M.
