Blue Monday Band

For nearly two decades, Blue Monday has been a staple of the live blues scene in Jackson. Organized by the Central Mississippi Blues Society (CMBS) and hosted by legendary restaurant and musical institution Hal & Mal’s, this weekly open mic brings together seasoned performers, emerging talent, and die-hard blues fans under one roof.

Part concert, part open mic, Blue Monday gives musicians a chance to hone their skills on stage, backed by a veteran house band. These seasoned musicians have toured with the likes of Bobby Rush, Dorothy Moore, and more; performing at the 82nd National Folk Festival are Bernard Jones on guitar, Michael Bernard on bass, Ken Hart on keys, Rick Lewis on drums, Malcolm Shepard on congas, with Abdul Rashid and Dennis Fountain on vocals.

Touring musicians have also graced the Blue Monday lineup, giving audiences and performers a chance to discover new sounds and techniques they may not be familiar with. Blues lovers from near and far stop through Hal & Mal’s, highlighting how this community space has transcended racial and generational boundaries to create a one-of-a-kind space that has gained international notoriety. From Bentonia blues to juke joint boogie-woogie, there is something for every blues fan on Monday nights at Hal & Mal’s.

“Monday night in the blues is a very special night because of the songs and the history that have gone into it,” says Malcolm Shepherd, member of the Blue Monday Band and one of the musicians performing with the Blue Monday Band at the 82nd National Folk Festival. “Friday rolls around, you get paid. Saturday, you go out to play. Sunday, you go to church. And Monday, the blues returns to you.”