Singer, songwriter, producer, and R&B legend Jerry “Swamp Dogg” Williams Jr. released his twenty-sixth studio album and first bluegrass record, Blackgrass: From West Virginia to 125th St., on Oh Boy Records in May. It debuted at #2 on Billboard’s Bluegrass Albums chart and features guest spots from Jenny Lewis, Margo Price, and Vernon Reid, as well as respected bluegrass players Sierra Hull and Chris Scruggs. Born in Portsmouth, Virginia, Swamp Dogg is a great American storyteller with a wicked sense of humor. He first recorded a blues single in 1954 at the age of twelve and since then has made influential doo-wop, folk, soul, and Americana recordings. Although he co-wrote Johnny Paycheck’s 1971 single “She’s All I Got,” which reached #2 on the country charts, Swamp Dogg only recently made his Grand Ole Opry debut, in July. During this program, Swamp Dogg will be joined by the Museum’s RJ Smith to discuss his career, then will give a brief performance. Presented in partnership with the Americana Music Association.

Ford Theater. Program ticket required. Included with Museum admission. Free to Museum members. Members may reserve tickets here starting at noon on Friday, August 30. Non-members must purchase Museum admission here.

When purchasing admission:

• select the date of this program,
• select a gallery entry time of 12:30 p.m. or earlier,
• select your Experience, and
• select the Concert & Conversation as an add-on.

AMERICANAFEST Silver Pass Holders can reserve tickets starting at noon on Friday, August 30. Conference registrants should refer to the email sent by the Americana Music Association for the link to reserve tickets. Tickets will be distributed to Silver Pass Holders with proof of conference wristband at the Ford Theater entrance on the day of the program. Admission to the program is not guaranteed without prior ticket reservation, however there may be limited walk-up tickets available to conference registrants on the day of the program.

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