(JACKSON, Miss.) Putting to bed the idea that there is nothing to do in the capital city, Jackson Indie Music Week (JIMWeek), sponsored by Southern Beverage Co., returns January 7-14, 2024, with a bevy of entertainment from local acts to performers hailing from as far as Colorado. The highly anticipated seven-day indie music festival has boasted upward of 10,000 attendees since its 2015 inaugural launch.
Through a curated potpourri of performances and events, JIMWEEK caters to a wide range of genres, including alternative, country, southern soul, EDM, folk, hip-hop, pop and rock. There is also an independent film showcase where five films will be screened, ranging from comedy to documentaries, including “Thank You” by Meezy and Bigger Picture Films.
“We are pleased to present year nine of this festival. We are also thankful to be one of the linchpins of this city’s creative ecosystem. We are welcoming nine acts from outside the state of Mississippi, which is a record for us,” says Brad Franklin, founder and executive director of JIMWeek. “We have become a real economic driver for this city. Folks come into Jackson during JIMWeek and spend money at hotels, restaurants, and bars. We look forward to this year and continuing to make an impact as the city with soul.”
Giving people their flowers while they are here, JIMWeek Icon Awards returns on Thursday, Jan.10, at Duling Hall with honorees Alice Marie of 99 JAMS WJMI, Visit Jackson, MS Visit Mississippi & Central MS Blues Society, Inc. hosted by Merc B. Williams & Kerry McFly, also known as the VibeControllers.
Past Icon Award recipients include blue legends Bobby Rush and Dorothy Moore, entertainment attorney Mike Frascogna, noted DJ Aziatikk Blakk, and rappers Reese & Bigalow, who recently received a gold plaque for their contribution to Duke & Jones & Louis Theroux’s viral song “Jiggle Jiggle.”
Attendees will also be treated to a host of dynamic hand-picked JIMWeek newcomers and alums, such as 5th Child, Zach Servis, thedivinehippy, G’Nece Quari, Elsie, Vae, Black Water Boogie, Columbus Toy, Prep Cashmere and more.
“JIMWeek has proven to be a launchpad and nurturer of the indie artists on and around the scene. It is the longest-running, week-long celebration of independent music in Mississippi. While it’s important for artists to support their peers, it is even more important for music lovers and individuals to come out and continue to cultivate the community,” says Donyale Walls, festival director. “Some of the most talented people are born and raised in Mississippi. You can witness their work and skills live and in person for a fraction of what it’s going to cost when they blow,” she says.
Aside from showcases and parties, JIMWEEK also has the “Do the Knowledge” panel, where industry insiders share their experiences, aiming to help independent artists navigate the entertainment business. Hershey Blakk, producer and engineer for Cash Money Records, and DJ Finesse, president of Core DJs and Finesse Entertainment, are among the panelists scheduled for 2024.
Maranda Joiner, brand consultant, entrepreneur, and author, will also lead an open discussion at CenterStage of MS on Tuesday, Jan. 9. Joiner will talk about self-care, helping creatives balance work and everyday life while fueling their passion and purpose.
Check out the full schedule of events. Tickets and all event passes are on sale now.
For vendors or sponsorship inquiries, please contact jxnindiemusic@gmail.com
For media passes, contact media@jxnindiemusic.com;
For updates, follow Jackson Indie Music Week on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter
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