"In Laurel, running away from home was a shocking thing. There was no precedent for it. In our town, you grew up and went to work on a farm as soon as you could. No one left -- let alone ran away." Mundell Lowe - Laurel native and guitar legend
Yet, in 1938 at the young age of 16, Mundell Lowe did just that. He ran away from home. First, to Nashville where his dad went to get him. Then again to New Orleans ... and this time for good.
Thus began the road to fame and remarkable odyssey of acclaimed-jazz-guitarist Mundell Lowe.
Now 87, living in San Diego and still actively performing
...he's coming home to Laurel.
Hello ... my name is Bill Clark, also a Jones County native. I first met and heard Mundell play at Millsaps College here in Jackson ten years ago. Millsaps conferred an honorary doctorate on him and he gave a concert there with well-known Jackson guitarist Skeets McWilliams. What a fabulous evening!
Fast forward: A few months ago, I rediscovered Mundell at www.mundelllowe.com and, once again, was blown away by his life story and credits; and to think that only twenty years and a creek had kept us from being buddies fifty years earlier! During a subsequent phone conversation with this congenial, gracious, and immensely talented man, I discussed the possibility of coming home for some well-deserved recognition, applause, and laurels. He responded enthusiastically!
I am thrilled to announce ... Mundell will be in concert in Laurel,
Saturday, July 18th, and he's bringing some talented friends.
Mayor Melvin Mack will be asked to proclaim Saturday, July 18th, 2009, Mundell Lowe Day. Mundell will be presenting a concert at the Laurel Little Theatre with both a matinee AND evening performance. Accompanying him in concert will be his long-time friend, fellow guitarist and Laurel native, Lloyd Wells; a world-class guitarist in his own right. Jim Ferguson (a string bass player and vocalist living in Nashville) will also join them. Among the forty plus CD's Mundell has recorded, two were with these guys.
Laurel's own Bob Saxton will open both concerts along with The Cee Jay's.
Don't miss this once-in-a-lifetime-grand event!
Tickets are $30 ($25 each in groups of ten).
Tickets are also available for a reception on Friday evening, July 17th,
at $75 each, or $60 each in groups of ten
(These tickets include admittance to either Saturday concert)
Mundell, Lloyd, and Jim will mix and mingle, sign autographs, and perform a few numbers. Bring family, friends, and special guest to honor and recognize the lifetime achievement of jazz guitarist extraordinarie and Laurel and Jones County's very own natural treasure ... Dr. Mundell Lowe.
Phone: 601-750-2364
Now...click on Pictures link at upper left.