Older West and South Side residents recall a time when tiny Black-owned lounges filled the main streets with live blues, jazz, soul, R &B.  Bass player Carl Norington and guitarist Elmore James Jr. remember well.

Come hear about their experiences in a Black Music Month discussion Wed. June 7, 6 p.m at Austin Public Library, 5615 W. Race St. The program is free, open to all ages.

Blues writer, piano player and promoter “Barrelhouse Bonni” McKeown will ask the musicians and the audience:  How we can revive this music today for everyone to enjoy and for Black heritage to be recognized?  How will the musical skills and expression be passed to upcoming generations? 

With a new mayor who promotes arts and culture for a peaceful and thriving city, how do we direct the economic benefit of Chicago’s world-known Black music to the neighborhoods that originated it?  Come share your best ideas.