Blues to Green

Ranky Tanky with special guest Lisa Fischer will perform at the 2024 Springfield Jazz & Roots Festival, in downtown Springfield, MA on July 20, 2024. The group will bring to Springfield some of the deep roots of American music presented through contemporary sounds, rooted in Gullah culture which synthesized the cultures of various African peoples brought to SC as slaves. Their performance and community engagement activity will illuminate a rich aspect of Black American history and culture, as the geographic isolation of the Lowcountry and Sea Islands of the GA and SC coast enabled the area to preserve more West African rhythms, dialects, and musical traditions than the mainland US. Ranky Tanky will lead a community talk and gathering on music and food of the Gullah culture as part of our Jazz & Justice Series at the festival. Then, with the incredible Lisa Fischer on vocals enhancing the artistry of the group, they will present an uplifting performance for our festival audience.