It has been over three years since I first envisioned a blues festival in my hometown of South Orange, NJ – that epiphany happened on a typical day having coffee at Starbucks, and sitting downtown soaking up the morning sun. Traveling the globe as a professional musician, I’d had the great privilege of performing at some of the greatest festivals and exotic locations in the world, and it seemed to
me at that moment that South Orange was equally beautiful – and worthy of its’ own major blues event. The obvious obstacle was the economy… and I knew full well it wouldn’t be easy: I needed help…
Armed with the spiritual support of a few visionary South Orange residents, we embarked together on a mission of love and purpose. The reception was PHENOMENAL; everyone we met agreed that it was an idea who’s time had come. The next two years were spent clearing the way legally and administratively…the Village worked with us closely to ensure a certain level of compliance, while we began the very necessary work of bringing on sponsors and strategic partners to “pay the bills” – after all, I always meant this event to be FREE TO THE PUBLIC. The festival is now proudly supported by Essex County Executive Joseph Divincenzo and the Department of Parks & Recreation. Today, we proudly present to you THE BLUES -- our great American art form, and hope you will explore all of the history and creativity this music has to offer. Thank you again for participating in this historic event!! Musically Yours,
MIKE GRIOT
FOUNDER & EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
THE SOUTH ORANGE INTERNATIONAL BLUES FESTIVAL
