Arkansas Bluesman Lucious Spiller Live at @realnewroxy @VisitClarksdale #jukejointfest

The New Roxy was once the main theatre in Clarksdale’s New World District, but years of abandonment took their toll, and by the time the current owners began redeveloping it as a music venue, it had no roof and became basically an outdoor venue enclosed by walls. Thursday night was especially cold, and the New Roxy had no heat except that from a woodfire in a brazier about halfway between the stage and the entrance. But the opportunity to see extraordinary Arkansas bluesman Lucious Spiller was worth dealing with the cold weather. Spiller, a newphew of Magic Sam, graduated from Philander Smith College in Little Rock, and soon became know worldwide for his unique approach to the blues. His set Wednesday night was a mix of traditional blues and more contemporary soul material.