The organizers of Newport’s beloved Broadway Street Fair are thrilled to once again be partnering with the legendary James Montgomery Band for a very special “Memorial Day Kick Off Party” at the historic Jane Pickens Theater and Event Center. After an incredible sold-out Holiday Extravaganza at the venue in December, American Blues Legend and longtime Newport resident James Montgomery returns with his exciting All-Star Blues Band to the JPT on Friday May 24th at 7:30PM for another rocking event to kick off Memorial Day Weekend. Joining James for this show are the world-famous Uptown Horns, who have recorded with everyone from James Brown, The B-52’s and Tom Waits to Joan Jett and Iggy Pop, and have toured with the J. Geils Band and The Rolling Stones. More recently, they recorded with Montgomery on his album “From Detroit to the Delta”. James Montgomery and his band have toured with every major artist on the circuit including The Allman Brothers, Bruce Springsteen, Aerosmith, B.B. King, Buddy Guy, Bonnie Raitt, Steve Miller and countless other rock and blues bands. Montgomery has been a member of The Blues Brothers, Commander Cody, and spent 6 years with Blues/Rock Legend Johnny Winter. During his stint with Winter, Montgomery earned a Grammy nomination for Johnny’s “Bluesman” CD.
Now in its 55th year, the current line-up for the JMB is as hot as ever, featuring bassist David Hull from The Joe Perry Project (and 4 tours with Aerosmith), drummer Marty Richards (J. Geils Band) and guitarist George McCann (The Blues Brothers). The band is known for their high energy performances, unparalleled musicianship, and Montgomery’s uncanny ability to engage and electrify any crowd. Montgomery is always pushing boundaries and blazing new territory on the harmonica. During his sold-out show at The JPT in December, James and his star-studded ensemble created a night of musical magic with on-stage camaraderie that thrilled the entire audience. This upcoming show in May with the Uptown Horns promises to exceed expectations and deliver another unforgettable evening of entertainment for all in attendance. Opening the evening at 7:30 will be regional favorites Dopey Lopes and the Up All Night Band, followed by the James Montgomery Band at 8:20. Dopey Lopes and The Up All Night Band features RI Music Hall of Famer Drummer/Vocalist Stumpy Nation, Peter Breen on Bass Guitar and Vocals, and Sir Rockingham on Lead Guitar. Their high energy rock and roll stage show has songs from David Bowie, The Neighborhoods, Lou Reed, and Mark Cutler and mixes in some original songs from the Dopey Lopes songbook.
The JPT is excited to kick off Memorial Day Weekend 2024 with this incredible event. Net proceeds from this show will benefit Newport’s beloved Broadway Street Fair and Operation Stand Down RI. As it did in December, this show will sell out, so patrons are encouraged to secure their tickets early. General admission tickets are $40 with a limited offering of VIP Meet & Greet packages for $70. Ticket purchases and additional information are available online at www.janepickens.com.