Roots of American Music continues its new Masters of American Music series—an ongoing concert and storytelling experience celebrating the artists who shaped the foundations of American music.

Held on the fourth Wednesday of each month, the series brings audiences into an intimate setting where music and storytelling come together, connecting the audience to the people who inspired the music we love today.

For the third event, the series continues with a tribute to Mississippi John Hurt, led by Ray Flanagan, one of Cleveland’s hardest working and musicians and songwriters. Ray has just released his debut LP on vinyl "My Mind is Burning Up" on April 3, 2026.

Mississippi John Hurt was a master of country blues guitar, known for his gentle fingerpicking style, warm voice, and timeless songs like “Candy Man,” “Spike Driver Blues,” and “Make Me a Pallet on Your Floor.” His music remains a cornerstone of American folk and blues traditions.

Flanagan will be joined by special guest Mary Frances Hurt—granddaughter of Mississippi John Hurt and founder and President of the Mississippi John Hurt Foundation—who will share stories and personal reflections alongside the music, offering a rare and intimate connection to Hurt’s life and legacy.

Together, they will bring Mississippi John Hurt’s music to life through performance, storytelling, and shared experience—continuing a series that invites audiences to listen, learn, and connect.

$15 cover at the door.

Proceeds from the event support the mission of Roots of American Music, which educates, inspires, and connects communities across Northeast Ohio through live performances and arts-integrated music education programs in schools, senior centers, and community spaces. To learn more about ROOTS and their programming, visit: https://www.rootsofamericanmusic.org/