THE CRAWDAD MUSIC FESTIVAL

For over 30 years, Russell Thompkins, Jr was the original lead singer of the Stylistics. His impeccable falsetto voice led the group to international fame and recognition. Russell's distinctive falsetto was the driving force and the backbone of the original Stylistics.

Jeanette has played major events from The Coombs River Bend Ranch Festival to festivals in Japan and London. She has performed as a side musician with Teena Marie, Howard Hewett and Deniece Williams and has opened shows for greats ranging from smooth jazz stars Kirk Whalum, Najee and The Rippingtons to R&B stars Babyface, Phil Perry and KEM.

Southern Rock Super Group featuring former members of Pure Prairie Leauge, Lynard Skynard, Molly Hatchet, Gregg Allman Band, Blackfoot, Artimus Pyle Band, Les Dudek Group and Ghostriders.

Whenever soul dynamo Marcel Smith begins to sing, he commands the attention of anyone within earshot. Combining soul, gospel and R&B, Smith’s voice is seductive and alluring, piquing interest with the anticipation that listeners just might find a secret and comforting message being sung expressly for them. It’s the believability factor, and Smith’s got it.

Alabama Mike is one of the few blues artists today who writes strong, memorable songs that are simultaneously unique, but steeped in blues tradition. He writes about modern themes, making his music work in a way that’s natural and not contrived. The songs reflect his personality: unabashed, self-assured and swaggering at times. The music is raw-edged yet reflects the complex and realistic person that is Alabama Mike.

The Zydeco Flames have gained a reputation as the West Coast's premiere Zydeco band. The Flames consistently pack the house in venues ranging from contemporary clubs to major festivals and traditional dancehalls. Their sizzling roots rhythms are timeless and the execution of them relentless, with a stunningly powerful groove. The Flames' sixth CD release "Fire It Up", provides fans with hot Zydeco in the tradition of masters like Clifton Chenier, Buckwheat Zydeco and Queen Ida.

Fronted by a tight, powerful horn section and soaring, soulful vocals. Driven by an edgy rhythm section that lays down an irresistible groove, HipNosis delivers a polished performance that ranges from Funky Jazz and Soul through Blues and Rock with a bit of Gospel thrown in for good measure. The original arrangements, soloists and top tier musicianship keep the sound fresh and compelling.

Mark St. Mary Louisiana Blues and Zydeco Band consist of Accordion Player/Vocalist/Song Writer Mark St. Mary, RubBoard Player, Lead Guitar, Bass and Drummer. Mark takes exceptional pride in knowing that he brings Authentic and Traditional Down Home Louisiana Blues and Zydeco to every performance. Mark St. Mary sings in both English and his native Creole French. His motto is 'LET'S HAVE A PARTY Y'ALL' and Bring Your Dancin' Shoes.

Hill Country and Delta Blues with Hypnotic Grooves "There is no blues band performing today as different as HowellDevine—nor as delightful." ~ Lee Hildebrand, Living Blues Magazine/SF Chronicle. Triple threat talent, Joshua Howell (guitar, harmonica, vocals) and percussion savant, Pete Devine (drums, washboard), plus veteran upright bassist, Joe Kyle Jr. deftly mix rural blues with wildly syncopated rhythms to create a rollicking sound that stands in stark contrast to the typical blues heard these days.