As Oklahoma City prepares for the grand return of the Charlie Christian International Music Festival (CCIMF) on May 31 and June 1, the community buzzes with anticipation for a weekend filled with rich musical performances. Organized by the Black Liberated Arts Center (BLAC), Inc., this year’s festival is a testament to its enduring dedication to fostering a vibrant cultural milieu in Oklahoma.
Scheduled to take place at the Bryant Center, a strategically chosen venue to meet the growing needs of the community, this year’s festival marks a significant transition as it sets to make this location its permanent home. Anita Arnold, Executive Director of BLAC, Inc., emphasized the significance of this move, stating, "It was a dash to the finish line with changes and schedules. Moving the festival to Bryant Center in a two-year, two-step plan into perpetuity is the right thing to do this year in meeting the needs of the community."
The festival kicks off with an awe-inspiring prelude at the Council Chambers of the City of Oklahoma City on May 21, featuring a morning serenade by the esteemed saxophonist Morris McCraven, Jr., and friends. This musical introduction promises a taste of the extraordinary talent set to grace the festival stage.
The Musical Lineup: A Tapestry of Jazz and Soul
The festival’s lineup is a robust catalogue of artists who will bring the best of jazz, soul, and blues to the heart of Oklahoma. On Friday, May 31, attendees will be treated to performances by:
5:30 PM: Maurice Johnson Band
7:00 PM: Brothers Dupree from Lawton, OK
8:30 PM: Chanda Graham & Band
10:00 PM: Mike McKinney & Company
The following day continues the rhythmic journey with:
5:30 PM: Grady Nichols Band, Tulsa, OK
7:00 PM: John Ford & 411 Band
8:30 PM: Koolie High Band
10:00 PM: Jeffrey Smith Band from Dallas, TX
Be sure to check out our page with bios on these fantastic artists!!
More Than Music: A Community Festival
Councilwoman Nikki Nice, serving as the festival’s emcee, and 2024 Festival Chairman Regionald Irons will guide attendees through two days of musical bliss and community celebrations. The festival isn't just a place for outstanding music but also a hub for local culture and arts, offering festival-themed merchandise like t-shirts, posters, and more.
For those looking to indulge, all festival food will be catered by B&B Catering, ensuring that the offerings are as enticing as the melodies. Tickets are reasonably priced at $35 per day, making this event accessible to all who wish to partake in celebrating the legacy of Charlie Christian and the ongoing story of jazz in Oklahoma.
An Ongoing Legacy
Grady Nichols, one of the featured artists, has been praised for his sophisticated style and approach to jazz. His presence at the festival underscores its significance as a platform for both celebrated and emerging artists to showcase their craft.
The Charlie Christian International Music Festival, made possible by the generous support of local and national sponsors including BancFirst and the National Endowment for the Arts, continues to be a cornerstone of cultural enrichment in Oklahoma City. As the festival gears up for another unforgettable weekend, it invites everyone to come and experience the power of jazz music that transcends time and continues to resonate within the community.
For tickets and more information, contact the Black Liberated Arts Center (BLAC), Inc. at (405) 524-3800 or visit CharlieChristian.org. Join us as we celebrate the timeless influence of jazz and the vibrant spirit of Oklahoma City at the Charlie Christian International Music Festival.