Fountain Blues Festival

Poor House Bistro Blues Jam
2025-05-28 17:00 - 20:00, 2025-06-04 17:00 - 20:00, 2025-06-11 17:00 - 20:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Poor House Bistro, 317 W. St John St, San Jose, CA, 95110
Step into the groove every Wednesday night at Poor House Bistro, where the rhythm runs deep and the BBQ runs hot. The Poor House Blues Jam is a soulful gathering of seasoned players, rising talents, and music lovers alike. From 5-8pm, PHB comes alive with the sound of blues that hits you right in the heart.
Bring your axe, bring your dancing shoes or just bring your appetite—musicians are welcome to sign up on the spot, and fans can kick back with a cold drink and a plate of legendary Southern comfort food. Every week is new energy, and a new reason to feel the blues in the best way possible.
Come for the music. Stay for the magic. It’s a San Jose tradition.

Club Fox Blues Jam
2025-05-28 18:00 - 21:00, 2025-06-04 18:00 - 21:00, 2025-06-11 18:00 - 21:00 | Club Fox, 2209 Broadway, Redwood City, CA, 94063
Wednesdays at Club Fox are anything but quiet. The Club Fox Blues Jam ignites the heart of Redwood City with powerhouse performers and spontaneous jam sessions that sizzle with energy. From 6-9PM, the stage becomes a melting pot of guitars, harmonicas, and pure emotion.
Whether you’re in the mood to play or just want to let the sound wash over you, Club Fox offers the perfect setting: an intimate room with killer acoustics, a stocked bar, and a community that lives and breathes blues.
This isn’t background music—this is front-and-center, full-throttle blues. Get in, plug in, and light it up.

Gardino's Wednesday's Blues Jam
2025-05-28 19:30 - 23:00, 2025-06-04 19:30 - 23:00, 2025-06-11 19:30 - 23:00 | Gardino’s Restaurant & Bar, 51 N Santa Cruz Ave, Los Gatos, CA, 95032
Join us every Tuesday and Wednesday night at Gardino’s Restaurant & Bar for Blues Jam & Open Mic Night from 7:30 to 11PM. It’s a laid-back midweek hang where local musicians show up, plug in, and keep the blues alive with raw, unscripted sets.
Whether you’re a seasoned player ready to hit the stage or just here for the tunes, it’s a great night out with zero pretense—just solid music, cold drinks, and good people.
Grab a plate of our house made Italian comfort food, order a drink from the bar, and settle in for an evening of real live music. Everyone’s welcome, and musicians of all levels can sign up to play when they arrive.
Blues Jam & Open Mic Night at Gardino’s—come to listen, come to play.

The Blues Pro Jam at Little Lou's BBQ
2025-05-29 18:00 - 21:00, 2025-06-05 18:00 - 21:00, 2025-06-12 18:00 - 21:00 | Little Lou’s BBQ, 2455 S Winchester Blvd, Campbell, CA, 95008
Get ready for Pro Blues Jam – electrifying, live blues at Little Lou’s BBQ every Thursday from 6 to 9PM – where some of the most talented blues musicians in the area come together for an unforgettable jam session.
Whether you’re a musician looking to showcase your skills or a blues lover eager to soak in the soulful sounds, this is the place to be. Expect dynamic performances, spontaneous collaborations and the kind of raw, unfiltered blues that stirs the soul.
While you enjoy the music, indulge in mouthwatering slow-smoked BBQ (and more) and great wines and beers all in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Little Lou’s is the perfect spot to gather with friends, meet fellow music enthusiasts and support live local talent.
Musicians of all levels are welcome to bring their instruments and join in—just sign up when you arrive.
Don’t miss out—Pro Blues Jam at Little Lou’s BBQ is where great music, great food and great vibes come together!

Fuego Sports Bar & Club Blues Jam
2025-05-31 21:00, 2025-06-07 21:00, 2025-06-14 21:00 | Fuego Sports Bar & Club, 140 S Murphy Avenue, Sunnyvale, CA, 94086
Feel the heat every Monday at Fuego Sports Bar & Club! The Fuego Blues Jam kicks off at 9PM and runs till 12am with fiery performances that keep the energy high and the dancefloor moving.
From slick slide guitar to howling harp solos, this night is all about bold sounds and good times. Musicians sign up on site, and the crowd never holds back. If you love your blues with a side of adrenaline, this is your weekly escape.
The music’s hot. The drinks are cold. The vibe? Totally lit. Only at Fuego.

Narrative Fermentations' Blues Jam
2025-06-01 16:00 - 19:00, 2025-06-08 16:00 - 19:00, 2025-06-15 16:00 - 19:00 | Narrative Fermentations, 101 E. Alma Avenue, San Jose, CA, 95112
Blues and brews—name a better combo. At Narrative Fermentations, the Narrative Blues Jam takes over the taproom every Sunday from 4 to 7 PM. It’s where craft beer meets crafted riffs in one of San Jose’s most exciting brewery spaces.
With a rotation of talented local musicians and a crowd that loves live music, the vibe is always laid-back, but the music? Anything but. Bring your instrument, grab a pint, and jump in—or just chill with friends and enjoy the show.
This jam is all about good beer, better music, and that bluesy feeling you didn’t know you needed until now.

Blue Note Lounge Blues Jam
2025-06-03 19:00 - 23:00, 2025-06-10 19:00 - 23:00 | The Blue Note Lounge, 765 E Capitol Avenue, Milpitas, CA, 95035
Milpitas may be mellow, but the Blue Note Lounge cranks up the soul every Tuesday from 7pm-11pm with the Milpitas Blues Jam. It’s unfiltered, gritty, and packed with local talent.
With a no-frills bar vibe, cheap drinks, and a crew that knows their chops, this jam is the real deal. Bring your gear, call a tune, and get down to business—or pull up a barstool and let the room do the talking.
No glitz. Just blues. And that’s exactly how we like it.

Gardino’s Tuesday's Blues Jam
2025-06-03 19:30 - 23:00, 2025-06-10 19:30 - 23:00 | Gardino’s Restaurant & Bar, 51 N Santa Cruz Ave, Los Gatos, CA, 95032

Alhambra Irish House Blues Jam
2025-06-04 19:00 - 22:00 | Alhambra Irish House, 831 Main Street, Redwood City, CA, 94063, United States
An Irish pub with a bluesy twist? You better believe it. The first Wednesday of every month from 7pm-10pm, Alhambra Irish House transforms into the coziest jam room around with the amazing sounds of blues.
Blues musicians of all stripes come together to swap solos and spark spontaneous musical magic in an intimate pub setting. Sip on a stout, dig into some hearty fare, and let the soulful sounds carry you through the night.
Tradition meets improvisation at Alhambra. Come raise a glass and catch the groove.

First Friday Rockin' n Blues Jam at Woodhams Lounge
2025-06-06 21:00 - 2025-06-07 01:00 | Woodhams Sports Lounge, 4475 Stevens Creek Blvd., Santa Clara, CA, 95051
Get ready to plug in and let loose at the First Friday Rockin’ n Blues Jam, happening every first Friday at one of the South Bay’s longest running blues jams—Woodhams Sports Lounge in Santa Clara.
Woodhams isn’t your average bar—it’s a vintage-style dive with real soul. Think dim lighting, worn-in bar stools, pool tables in the back, and the kind of jukebox that knows its way around a Muddy Waters riff. A favorite of local musicians and loyal regulars alike, it’s the perfect home for a gritty, good-time jam session.
This month’s featured players:

Aaron Madsen – Vocals & Guitar
Steve Scarpelli – Drums
Jam Master Bob Gonzalez – Bass & Vocals

Sign-ups open at 8:30 PM, so bring your axe, your sticks, or your pipes—and join the lineup. The music kicks off at 9 PM, and the energy goes all night.

M’sippi Slide
2025-06-14 12:00 - 13:15 | Plaza Park, 1 Paseo de San Antonio, San Jose, CA, 95113
M’sippi Slide is a rhythm and blues powerhouse born out of a deep love for the timeless soul
sounds of the 1950s and ’60s. Fronted by the magnetic Lijah—a vocalist whose voice evokes the
legendary power of Aretha Franklin, Etta James, and Marvin Gaye—the band brings a visceral,
emotionally rich sound to every performance. Lijah’s passion for music was sparked in her
hometown of San Jose, where her father’s record collection filled her childhood with the sounds
of Motown and Southern soul. That early influence now fuels her dynamic performances, which
blend raw emotion with classic R&B grooves.
Since forming in late 2022, M’sippi Slide has built a loyal fanbase, driven by the chemistry and
musicianship of its core members: guitarist Johnny Cat Soubrand, bassist Frank DeRose,
drummer Scotty Griffin, and rhythm guitarist Ryan Ward. Johnny Cat and DeRose have played a
crucial role in helping Lijah refine her vocal presence and develop a powerful, authentic sound
rooted in the tradition of American soul.
With their heartfelt delivery, high-octane stage presence, and deep respect for the legacy of
R&B, M’sippi Slide doesn’t just perform music—they revive a feeling. Their shows are a
journey through sound and soul, inviting audiences to dance, sway, and feel every note.

Mike Zito
2025-06-14 14:00 - 15:30 | Plaza Park, 1 Paseo de San Antonio, San Jose, CA, 95113
Mike Zito is one of the most lauded artists in the contemporary blues arena today and rightfully so, but for him, the thing that counts the most is maintaining his honesty, authenticity and integrity. Those are the qualities that have steered Zito’s career since the beginning and continue to define every effort he’s offered since.
“I have nothing to hide; it seems my honesty is what people relate to most,” he once told Vintage Guitar magazine. “Anders (Osborne) told me early on, ‘If you don’t believe what you’re singing, you’ll never be a good singer.’ I try not to write fluff; I try to make every word count.”
Naturally, patience and perseverance have been Zito’s stock and trade since the beginning. He began playing guitar at the age of five, and by the time he reached his late teens, he was already a fixture on the local St. Louis music scene. He initially released his music independently and then signed with Eclecto Groove Records in 2008. “Pearl River,” the title track of his 2009 album for the label, won Song of the Year at the Blues Music Awards and marked his first collaboration with Cyril Neville, with whom he’d later work in the Royal Southern Brotherhood. A steady succession of critically acclaimed albums followed, culminating in 2011’s Greyhound, which was nominated for Best Rock Blues Album at that year’s Blue Music Awards ceremony in Memphis. Two years later, he signed with Ruf Records and released Gone to Texas, the story of how he gained his sobriety, offered an emotional homage to the state that left an indelible imprint on his entire life. It also marked the debut of his band, The Wheel.
From 2010 to 2014, Zito also played an integral role in the super group of sorts, Royal Southern Brotherhood. The group released two albums and a DVD, Songs from the Road – Live in Germany, winner of the year’s Blues Music Award for Best DVD. He also made his mark behind the boards by producing albums for Samantha Fish, Albert Castiglia, Ally Venable, Jeremiah Johnson, Jimmy Carpenter, and many others.
Meanwhile, the accolades kept coming. His album, Make Blues Not War, debuted on the Billboard Blues Album Chart at number one and garnered him recognition as the 2018 Rock Blues Artist of the Year at the Blues Music Awards. First Class Life followed suit, also entering the charts at number one. Alternate Root magazine insisted that “The First Class Life that Mike Zito titles his upcoming album can be heard in the sweet sound of Blue Soul rising like heat waves from his guitar and his vocal.” American Blues Scene said, “Mike Zito’s return to the blues is, in a word, triumphant!” No Depression declared, “Once again, Zito has delivered the goods, a first class package with no postage due.”
In 2019, Zito released a tribute album of fellow St. Louis native and rock ‘n’ roll legend, Chuck Berry, and featured an array of guest guitarists ranging from Joe Bonamassa, Walter Trout and Eric Gales, to Robben Ford, Luther Dickinson and Sonny Landreth, as well as Berry’s own grandson. Rock ’n Roll: A Tribute to Chuck Berry debuted on the Billboard Blues Album Chart at number 1 and remained on the chart for several weeks. Rock ’N Roll won the Blues Music Award for Blues Rock Album of the year and Mike also received the Blues Music Award for Blues Rock artist.
At about the same time, Mike Zito partnered with Guy Hale to form the new record label Gulf Coast Records. Gulf Coast Records is based in Nederland, TX with a focus on Regional Roots, Blues and Americana genres. The mutual passion of the founders is to lift up artists and help them get their music out to the world.
Quarantine Blues, was recorded during the heart of the coronavirus pandemic and served as a healing love letter to his fans around the world that heralded better days ahead if we’d all just stick together. In 2021, Mike released Resurrection on his record label Gulf Coast Records. The new disc was produced by the celebrated Grammy-winner David Z, best known for his long-standing work with Prince, and who has contributed to albums by Etta James, Billy Idol, BoDeans, Buddy Guy and John Mayall, among many others.
“I have songs in me and musical ideas all of the time,” volunteers Mike Zito about the new album’s genesis. “I write what I can, when I can and try to save it all for posterity. Some of the songs are just songs and they don’t always have meaning for me, and some of them become very personal. For me to sing songs and feel them with real emotion, they need to be somewhat personal. Even songs I did not write, I need to feel they explain a part of my thinking or how I am feeling about love, sex, life, death, the world…. Resurrection is an album of feelings, emotions, and is very personal. The title track is how I once almost lost my love, but it came back stronger than ever. I have had this song in me for years, but it only makes sense now to share it with the world. After the year we have had on planet Earth, I believe we all need a rebirth. This rebirth has given me an opportunity to be who I want to be musically and artistically.”
Resurrection was a critic and fan favorite and later won the Blues Music Award for the 2022 Blues Rock Album of the year.
In 2022, Zito released the double live album Blues for the Southside. Recorded on November 26, 2021, at the Old Rock House in St. Louis, Missouri, and produced by Mike Zito, Blues for the Southside showcases Zito (guitar, vocals) and his stellar band in full fury with special guests Tony Campanella, Dave Kalz and guitar wizard Eric Gales. After the release of Blues for the Southside, Zito joined forces with Gulf Coast Records label mate Albert Castiglia and created the Blood Brothers tour.

Greaseland Allstars with Rj Mischo & Fillmore Slim
2025-06-14 16:15 - 17:45 | Plaza Park, 1 Paseo de San Antonio, San Jose, CA, 95113
Fountain Blues Festival Presents: Greaseland All Stars
Get ready for an unforgettable celebration of the Blues as the Fountain Blues Festival welcomes Kid Andersen’s Greaseland All Stars — a powerhouse ensemble featuring Rick Estrin, Alabama Mike, Lisa Andersen, and the dynamic rhythm section of Derrick D’MAR Martin and Lorenzo Farrell.
For over 15 years, Greaseland Studios—founded by guitarist and producer Christoffer “Kid” Andersen and powerhouse vocalist Lisa Andersen—has been the heartbeat of the West Coast blues scene. With over 150 albums recorded and numerous Blues Music Awards to their credit, the studio has become a magnet for legendary musicians from across the globe.
Now, the magic of Greaseland comes to life on stage in a thrilling revue-style performance. Kid Andersen, widely celebrated for his fiery guitar work and masterful production skills, leads the charge. By his side is his wife Lisa, whose soulful vocals have graced countless recordings and captivated audiences worldwide.
Joining them is Rick Estrin, a harmonica virtuoso and charismatic frontman best known for his work with Little Charlie & The Nightcats and Rick Estrin & The Nightcats. With his sharp songwriting and deep Chicago blues roots, Estrin brings both grit and humor to the show.
Adding a dose of gospel-fired intensity is Alabama Mike, a commanding vocalist and harmonica player whose energy and stage presence are unmatched. Drawing from his Southern roots and life experience, Mike delivers blues that are as raw as they are uplifting.
Anchoring the groove is Derrick D’MAR Martin, former drummer for Little Richard, whose explosive style and showmanship light up every stage he steps on. Holding down the keys and bass lines is the incredibly versatile Lorenzo Farrell, known for his work with Nightcats and a host of blues icons.
This all-star lineup represents the spirit, soul, and power of modern blues at its finest. Whether you’re a longtime blues lover or a new fan, this set will be a highlight of the festival—an electrifying, soulful journey into the sound of Greaseland that’s not to be missed.
Join us at the Fountain Blues Festival for a once-in-a-lifetime experience with the Greaseland All Stars—where West Coast blues royalty meets raw, musical magic.

Aki Kumar Bollywood Blues Band
2025-06-15 12:00 - 13:15 | Plaza Park, 1 Paseo de San Antonio, San Jose, CA, 95113
Aki Kumar left his native home in Mumbai, India for the United States with the
intention of working as a software engineer. Then he discovered the sounds of the blues,
and his life changed dramatically.
A masterful harmonica player, soulful vocalist, band-leader, drummer and producer,
Kumar is a man of many talents and one of the most prolific artists in the SF Bay Area
today. He has successfully blended retro Indian music into his presentation, making for a
unique, electrifying, multi-cultural mash-up that sounds like no one else, yet never loses
touch with the inspiration it draws from the blues. A veteran of the San Jose music scene
for two decades, Kumar was hailed as “…King of ‘Bollywood blues’ music” by SJ Mercury
News (2022) and received the Metro Silicon Valley Gold Award for Best Band (2024).
Kumar’s “Little Village” releases “Aki Goes To Bollywood” (2016) and “Hindi Man
Blues” (2018) are considered ground-breaking albums that have garnered international
critical acclaim. In 2020, Kumar made major news with the world-wide launch of his album
“Dilruba” on Sony Music. In 2021, Little Village released Kumar’s uplifting reggae-inspired
single “Zindagi” (Life).
Aki Kumar has made multiple appearances at The Hardly Strictly Bluegrass, San Jose Jazz &
SF Jazz Festivals, and has been featured on PRI “The World,” KQED Arts and CBS Bay Area.
He has toured extensively over the years, including in Europe, Scandinavia, Russia,
Australia, India and South America.

Alabama Mike
2025-06-15 14:00 - 15:30 | Plaza Park, 1 Paseo de San Antonio, San Jose, CA, 95113
Alabama Mike, born Michael Benjamin in Talladega, Alabama, channels the deep traditions of
gospel and Southern soul into a blues voice that is equal parts raw, refined, and utterly
unforgettable. Influenced early by his father, a gifted quartet tenor singer, Mike developed a
vocal style rooted in the gospel church—powerful, emotional, and steeped in truth. Now based in
Oakland, California, he tours internationally with his band The Revelators, captivating audiences
with a sound that blends blues, soul, funk, and grit.
Alabama Mike’s rise in the modern blues world has been both swift and well-earned. His recent
album, Stuff I’ve Been Through (Little Village Foundation), is a deeply personal collection that
has earned him a 2024 Blues Foundation nomination for Soul Blues Album of the Year,
complementing his consecutive nominations for Soul Blues Male Artist of the Year in 2024 and
2025. In 2023, he was honored with the Muddy Waters Lifetime Achievement Award by the Jus’
Blues Music Awards Foundation—testament to the impact he’s made in a relatively short time.
Drawing from influences like ZZ Hill, Johnnie Taylor, Junior Wells, and Jimmy McCracklin,
Alabama Mike carries the torch for traditional blues while injecting it with fresh, contemporary
urgency. His backing band—Ronnie Smith (drums), Bobby Young (guitar), Lorenzo Hawkins
(keys), and AJ Joyce (bass)—features some of the Bay Area’s most respected musicians, all with
deep roots in gospel, funk, soul, and blues. Together, they create a sound that’s both timeless and
current, spiritual and streetwise—a testament to the “stuff he’s been through,” and the soul he
continues to pour into every note.
