This article expresses the views of its author(s), separate from those of this publication. Readers are encouraged to comment or submit a Letter to the Editor to share their opinions. To submit a Letter to the Editor, follow the instructions here.
Jazz originally began in New Orleans, Louisiana, in the twentieth century. Jazz is known for its rhythmic orchestration of instruments and the strong, energetic vocals of the performer. Some famous jazz musicians include Louis Armstrong and Miles Davis. Blues came about much earlier than jazz, beginning in the 1860s, as stated by an article posted by Black Perspectives. Blues is typically slower in pace and is notable for its lyrics that center on the Black experience. Some famous blues musicians include B.B King and Etta James.
The classic sounds and elements of jazz and blues were used as a form of expression for the Black community. Today, the power of voice and music is still used as a form of connection.
Black History Month is a time to celebrate all people and components of the Black community. Fort Mose Historic State Park is doing just that, choosing to celebrate with music. According to the Fort Mose Historic State Park website, the park is the site of the first free, legally sanctioned African settlement. For the park’s fifth anniversary, they are holding a music festival on the notorious land. The Fort Mose Jazz and Blues Series is being held at Fort Mose Historic State Park in St. Augustine, Florida. This event features five total well-known Black musicians for the month of February.
To start off the event, Ledisi is performing on Friday, Feb. 6. Ledisi is a well-known vocalist classified into the neo-soul, soul, and R&B genres. Ledisi is a multifaceted artist who has many accolades to her name, including a Grammy. One of her most notable songs is “The Rain” from the 2004 album “Def Jazz.” The band StellaSoul will be performing as the special guest at the event. The show begins at 7 p.m.
For the next show, Gary Clark Jr. will be performing on Saturday, Feb. 7. Clark Jr. is a Grammy award-winning singer and guitarist. He has experimented with many genres, most notably his soul, blues, and afropunk music. One of his most recognized songs is “Come Together,” featured in the 2017 film “Justice League.” Clark Jr. will be joined by an artist named Dionysus. The show will start at 7 p.m.
There are more performers to come for the following weekend. Friday, Feb. 13, The Robert Cray Band and Ruthie Foster take the stage. The Robert Cray Band is a famous group known for blues, soul, and rock and roll. The group has won many different awards, including five Grammys. Added to this, The Robert Cray Band was officially inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame. One of their most popular songs is “(Won’t Be) Coming Home” from their album “Nothin But Love.” Ruthie Foster is a famous blues singer who will be co-headlining with The Robert Cray Band. Foster also has a Grammy to her name as of 2025. One of her most popular songs is “Singing the Blues” from her album “Promise of a Brand New Day.” The show begins at 7 p.m.
On Saturday, Feb. 14, Don Was and the Pan-Detroit Ensemble are headlining. The group is known for its jazz and neo-jazz sound. Don Was himself has won a total of six Grammy awards. One of their most recognized songs is “Midnight Marauders” from their album “Groove In The Face Of Adversity.” The group, along with special guest The Gilmore Quandary, will perform at 7 p.m.
To round out the celebration, Samara Joy will be performing on Sunday, Feb. 15. Joy is a famed vocalist, classified into genres such as R&B and Jazz. As of 2026, Joy has won six Grammy awards. One of her most recognized songs is “Everything Happens to Me” from her album titled “Samara Joy.” The Hannah Stokes Band will be performing as the special guest. The show starts at 7 p.m.
For more ticket information, visit the Fort Mose Jazz and Blues Series page on the park’s website.
___
For more information or news tips, or if you see an error in this story or have any compliments or concerns, contact [email protected].
