Inaugural Women of the Blues Festival Headed to Treelawn in March

More than 10 years ago, Lynn Orman Weiss, a veteran music publicist and journalist with 30 years of experience, had an idea to produce a concert called Chicago Blues Mamas for Obama. As Orman Weis collected interviews and photos from 20 different photographers from around the world, she realized how unique the artists were to their communities and hometowns.

Weiss then assembled a collection of photos of blues women featuring 60 female blues artists of all ages and ethnic backgrounds. They represented all styles, from Southern soul blues to Chicago blues and rock blues. She’ll bring the exhibit to Cleveland next month for the inaugural Women of the Blues Festival that takes place from Thursday, March 6, through Sunday, March 9, at the Treelawn.

“This opportunity with the Treelawn is unparalleled,” says Orman Weiss in phone interview. “I can’t wait.”

That opening VIP night event on March 6 will feature performances by blues acts Cinema Talk and Sisters in Song. Orman Weiss and Beachland co-owner Cindy Barber will speak.

Then, on Friday, March 7, Buddy Guy’s daughter Carlile Guy will perform with the Nu Blue Band. Slide guitarist Christine and her band Justice, both Cleveland acts, will open. On Saturday, March 8, Lynne Jordan will present a tribute to the late Nina Simone, a Rock Hall Inductee.

“What a great musical influence Nina was,” says Orman Weiss. “She pushed for Civil Rights and social justice too. She made such an impression and impact on women in every genre, from gospel to jazz to blues. I love it that her birthday is in February and bridges Black History Month and Women’s History Month. I’ve seen the show in Chicago a number of times. It’s a knockout. Lynne’s storytelling is incredible. [Her rendition of] ‘Mississippi Goddamn’ will have you hootin’ and hollerin’ and out of your seat.”

The festival concludes on Sunday, March 9, with a brunch featuring daughters of blues legends. Teeny Tucker, the daughter of blues great Tommy Tucker, and Marion Diaz, daughter of Little Walter, will attend the Daughters of the Legends brunch. Channel 3’s Donita Harris will host the event.

“I hope to do the event every year,” says Orman Weiss, who worked with Cleveland’s Steve Blu, who co-produced the live shows at the Treelawn. “I’m hoping it’s very successful, and people will come out and appreciate the women and learn about new women. It’s about documenting the past and understanding and knowing who some of the new young artists are. Hopefully, Cleveland will come to celebrate.”

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