Des Blues in Des Moines
While blues and jazz may have originated in the southern part of the United States, Des Moines has its own ties to the genre.
In the middle of a musical migration
According to a Little Village article featuring Kevin B.F. Burt, International Blues Challenge Champion, he states: “I’ve always thought there’s a bigger history and connection to blues that Iowa has than most people realize. Those connections exist, and have always existed, and it’s because there have always been pockets of African Americans living in those communities, that had connections to the south, that brought entertainers to the area. We’re halfway to everywhere,” he said, “so when people are touring, it’s difficult not to cross through the state of Iowa. It’s always been that way … it’s just a story untold.”
Get cozy in our conservatory
If you find yourself at a crossroads this winter, why not stop by the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden to take in some blues to cure your winter blues? We’ve got a great lineup that’s sure to make your Sunday simply better.
Every Sunday from January 5 through March 30, we have a different live music concert in a warm conservatory filled with a collection of tropical plants. You’ll feel like you’ve traveled down south, when only miles from your doorstep. Listen, relax, dance, sip a drink, sit back and soak in the sounds of all the cultures that have crossed over Iowa!
Discover who’s playing next here.
