Shannon “Bayou” Williford

Shannon “Bayou” Williford’s history as a musician starts with listening to blues growing up in Jackson, MS; then learning harmonica in the jook joints of Baton Rouge and becoming fairly celebrated as a blues harp player over 15 years. A move to Nashville led to playing harmonica in many different genres; teaching for Nashville’s Metro Parks Music Department; and doing upwards of 200 performances a year. Since “retirement” to the family favorite home on the MS beach, he still plays around 15 dates a month; doing festivals, schools, restaurants, bars, churches and private parties. As a former classroom teacher – 7 years English – he lecture/performs as a blues music historian; with presentations to groups of all ages. “Bayou” is an old pro sharing his knowledge and making music with guitar, harmonica and vocals!

Presentations

• The Blues: Pain, History, and Poetry