When I first saw Christone “Kingfish” Ingram listed as the opener for Vampire Weekend at Merriweather on August 29th, I have to admit that I was unaware of who this musician was. A friend told me that he was a “must see” and “the next big thing”. Therefore, I made sure to get to the show early to catch his set. I waited at the front for this artist to take the stage, literally not knowing a thing about him.

The drummer and bass player took the stage first. Then, after a few measures, Christone “Kingfish” Ingram took the stage, guitar in hand, and hitting the audience instantly with his talent. Not even mid-way through the first song and I was impressed. At only 20 years old, this kid could play the blues guitar like a classic blues musician. He captivated the entire audience all the way through his 30 minute set.

Ingram fell in love with blues when he was only 5 years old. Both his parents supported his love for music and before long, he learned to play the drums, bass, and eventually guitar. While his friends where hanging out being typical teenagers, Ingram – only in the 7th Grade – began performing live in venues around his home in Mississippi. Now, Ingram has just released his first solo album, Kingfish.

Definitely take advantage of you chance to see this amazing musician perform in a small club because it won’t be long before the word gets out (if it hasn’t already)! You will have two chances to see Christone “Kingfish” Ingram this fall. He will be performing in Baltimore at The 8×10 on September 22nd (which is a great intimate venue and I highly recommend) and then again in D.C. at 930 Club on November 21. Click the links to purchase tickets to these shows!

Check out the video below and enjoy some photos of Christone “Kingfish” Ingram performing at Merriweather Post Pavilion on August 29th. All photos copyright and courtesy of Shantel Mitchell Breen.