Liverpool, UK – In a landmark celebration of shared musical heritage, Liverpool’s iconic Cavern Club has become the home of the UK’s first permanent Mississippi Blues Trail Marker. This significant marker symbolises the deep-rooted connection between Mississippi, the birthplace of the blues, and Liverpool, a city known for its profound influence on global music culture influenced by the blues.

A distinguished delegation from Mississippi travelled to Liverpool for the unveiling ceremony, held outside the Cavern Club on Mathew Street. The event was presided over by Liverpool’s Lord Mayor, Richard Kemp, alongside Rochelle Hicks, Executive Director of Visit Mississippi, Craig Ray, Chairman of the Mississippi Blues Trail Commission, and Julia Baird, John Lennon’s sister, who played a pivotal role in realising this seven-year project. This initiative not only honours Liverpool’s musical history but also strengthens cultural and tourism links between the two regions.

The unveiling was accompanied by a live performance from award-winning Mississippi blues artist James ‘Super Chikan’ Johnson. Known for his electrifying performances at Morgan Freeman’s Ground Zero Blues Club in Clarksdale, Mississippi, Johnson brought the authentic sound of the Delta blues to the Cavern Club stage. His performance evoked memories of past legends like Sonny Boy Williamson, Bo Diddley, and John Lee Hooker, who also graced the iconic venue in years gone by.

Rochelle Hicks, Executive Director of Visit Mississippi, expressed her enthusiasm for the event:
We are proud to celebrate Mississippi’s significant contributions as the Birthplace of America’s Music through the unveiling of the Mississippi Blues Trail marker at The Cavern Club in Liverpool. This renowned venue is the perfect place for visitors to discover the musical connection between Mississippi and the British Isles.

The Mississippi Blues Trail, administered by Visit Mississippi, honours the musicians, venues, and cultural landmarks that have shaped Mississippi’s legacy as the Birthplace of America’s Music. With hundreds of blues markers spread across Mississippi, today’s unveiling marks the first time the trail extends to the UK, offering British fans a direct link to the deep cultural influence of the American South.

Jon Keats, Director of the Cavern Club, shared his excitement:
It’s fantastic to see the blues, which played such an important role in shaping music as we know it, recognised in this way. Having the first UK Blues Trail Marker here at the Cavern is a true honour, and I’m sure the exchange will benefit both Liverpool and Mississippi’s tourism mutually.

For more information about the Mississippi Blue Trail and other permanent markers you can visit please visit https://msbluestrail.org/