KENNETH JACKSON
Kenneth Jackson is a recording artist, dynamic entertainer, and master teaching artist with 35 years of classroom experience. He has performed with such renowned artists as B.B. King, Ray Charles, Johnny Taylor, Lou Rawls, Solomon Burke, Sam and Dave, the Dells, and others. He has a vocal style reminiscent of Lou Rawls and Barry White and he is a composer, trumpeter, guitarist, and pianist. He tours nationally and has also performed in Japan, England, Italy, Sweden, Finland, U.S. Virgin Islands, Africa, and Ireland.
His award-winning Blues in the Schools program (BASICALLY BLUES) has been broadcast on CNN and presented at the Kennedy Center and Smithsonian Institute. Mr. Jackson educates and motivates students of all ages with his high-energy music and laid-back teaching style. His original songs address curriculum themes such as math, history, tolerance, self-esteem, safety, science, songwriting, non-violence, and life skills. Mr. Jackson will work directly with the teachers to determine all curriculum and theme connections. Mr. Jackson’s mission is to share the legacy of the Blues with all generations throughout the World. This music has brought us together in spirit and harmony. Let us celebrate and dance.
Contact Kenneth Jackson at kjblues@bellsouth.net
Artist Work Samples
Sample Programs Offered
Program Type: Arts Appreciation
Program Description:
“ONE MAN’S BLUES”- Multi-instrumentalist, singer, and composer Kenneth Jackson enchants students with early styles, including sing-alongs, work songs, and call and responses. Audiences of all ages will enjoy this exciting performance of this melting pot of Blues from a historical and artistic point of view. B.B. King’s “Thrill is Gone, W.C. Handy’s “St. Louis Blues”, and Elvis Presley’s “Jail House Rock” will be included in the program as well Jackson’s originals and other soulful songs.
Tours to Schools
Program length – 50 min.
Suitable for Grades K-12
Lesson Plan Example: Download File
Program Type: Arts Appreciation
Program Description:
“Basically Blues” – Recording artist Kenneth Jackson’s original score celebrating Memphis’ musical heritage. The songs were carefully crafted from the same rhythm patterns, chords sequences, and song structures as traditional blues songs using child themes and curriculum. The show includes work songs, alphabet, colors, personal hygiene, “12 bar blues shake”, and the “Beale Street Strut” (parade). A little authentic blues, soul, and rock and roll will be sprinkled in to balance out the show.
Tours to Schools
Program length: 50 min.
Suitable for Grades – Pre k -2
Lesson Plan Example: Download File
Program Type: Arts Appreciation
Program Description:
“RHYTHM AND BLUES CLUES” – This soul stirring, heart-warming, thought provoking concert production contains original songs geared toward contemporary teen issues and life skills. Various styles of Rhythm and Blues, Blues, Soul, Ballads, Rock, and spirit filled music have been composed by Kenneth Jackson to educate, motivate, and thoroughly entertain our youth as well as adults. Other popular Blues and Soul songs will be performed as well. Topics include: stress management, job interviews, tolerance, honoring Mothers, stopping the violence, self- control, and many more.
Tours to Schools
Program length: 50 min.
Suitable for Grades – 6 – 12
Lesson Plan Example: Download File
