By Tia Lyons
With the El Dorado Municipal Auditorium out of commission for a major refit, local organizations and promoters have sought out alternative venues for indoor events during the cold weather months.
One of those promoters is Michael Jackson, of Mr. Mike's Productions, who is presenting a Thanksgiving Bash today at the American Legion, 105 Christian Drive.
The show, which will feature some of the hottest acts in blues and southern soul, including T.K. Soul, will begin at 9 p.m. Doors open at 8 p.m.
Jackson said the show time that had been advertised has been pushed back by 30 minutes. He said the concert will last until approximately 12:30 a.m.
Jackson said he normally hosts a Thanksgiving show at the Brick House nightclub, but he sought a roomier venue this year.
With the municipal auditorium undergoing a $5.6 million renovation, Jackson said the American Legion seemed like the perfect choice, noting that he used to regularly host shows there "back in the day."
Known as "The Bad Boy of Southern Soul," T.K. Soul is one of the most popular contemporary artists of the genre.
He will be joined by co-headliners Ghetto Cowboy and newcomer Summer Wolf of Shreveport, Louisiana. Both have previously performed at Mr. Mike events.
Wolf opened for legendary blues and R&B singer/songwriter Denise LaSalle at Soul Fest in June.
"The crowd loved her. That's the reason she's coming back now. She's been out about a year," Jackson said.
This year, Wolf released the single, "None of My Business," which has gained traction among southern soul fans.
T.K. Soul has become a fan favorite in El Dorado and has been a staple in other annual Mr. Mike's shows over the years, including Soul Fest and the Southern Soul Showdown, also an annual event held at the Union County Fairgrounds.
"I usually do something with him once a year, but I didn't get a chance to do something at the fairgrounds this year because of his schedule," Jackson said.
Jackson said advance ticket sales have been moving briskly, and he is expected a nice-sized crowd.
He said he has struck a deal to host more shows at the American Legion in the coming months, including a pre-Christmas party on Dec. 19 featuring blues artist Pokey, known for the hit song "My Sidepiece."
Plans are also in the works for a Valentine's Day weekend concert on Feb. 13, Jackson said.
Proceeds from the Thanksgiving Bash Proceeds from the show will go toward Jackson's nonprofit organization, "Brothers Making Changes."
See BASH on page 2A
The program aims to mentor young men and boys from their teenage years to early adulthood.
To help spread the message about BMC and its initiatives, Jackson said he is planning a daytime, community event in January. Details about the event are forthcoming, he said.
"It's (the community event) to raise awareness about putting an end to some of this violence and discrimination and racism and to bring unity," Jackson said.
He said the event and nonprofit are ways to give back to a community that has given him so much.
"I appreciate everybody for supporting my shows over the years. We're going to keep it rolling," he said.
D.J. Scott Banks, of KMVX, which plays R&B and classic soul in Monroe, Louisiana, will also be on hand Saturday.
Food vendor Official Catering, a regular at Jackson events, will also be on site preparing hot shrimp, chicken and fried fish plates for sale.
Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door, and they are available at Mr. Mike's Music and Artwork in El Dorado, Special Touch in Camden, Magnolia Custom in Magnolia, JB's in Crossett, Golden Girls in Warren, and Martha's Boutique in Ruston, Louisiana.
For more information, call Jackson at (870) 866-7441 or (870) 864-0350.