Southern rapper Big Smo at top of lineup of 16 bands playing Ocoee River Jam. FRIDAY-SUNDAY
16 bands will rock Snyder Farm this weekend
Sixteen bands playing everything from bluegrass to rock to Southern rap will perform over three days this weekend at Ocoee River Jam VI.
Ocoee River Jam, the only weekend-long music festival in Ocoee, Tennessee, began in 2013 as a signature event focusing on music and arts of this area. Held at Snyder Farm — aka the Jam Farm — it’s a family-friendly, laid-back atmosphere where music fans can enjoy a variety of genres in one location set against the beautiful backdrop of the Chilhowee Mountain range.
This year’s festival opens Friday afternoon, July 27, continuing through Sunday night, July 29. Passes can be purchased either by the day or the weekend. There is also a Sleeping Under the Stars package for campers that includes shuttle service to two nearby campgrounds.
“We’re extremely excited about our lineup this year. Returning are some of Ocoee’s favorite bands, along with some newbies to the stage,” says Julie Thornton Johnson, president of Ocoee River Jam.
“Popular groups such as River Funk, Share the Road, Dagger Blue and Natchez Tracers will join us once again. Another all-time favorite of the Ocoee, Strung Like a Horse, will finish off the lineup Friday night. You don’t want to miss their signature Americana sound and fiery, high-energy stage show. They’re always a crowd-pleaser.”
New to Ocoee River Jam’s stage this year is Barefoot Nellie, says Johnson. A smooth-driving bluegrass band, their sound blends standard, traditional bluegrass with a more innovative approach.
Jess Goggans from Fort Payne, Alabama, will headline Saturday’s lineup. Goggans will perform her tribute to Janis Joplin.
Big Smo will close out the music festival Sunday night. The Southern rapper incorporates elements of outlaw country and hip-hop into his sound.
Johnson says Sunday is Family Day at Ocoee River Jam. There will be activities designed to inspire and entertain youth. These include musical instrument instruction, bounce houses and a tie-dye station.
“Don’t forget a towel and clothes that can get wet, because we will have our water slide set up,” she says.
Kids 17 and under get in free on Sunday. Additionally, any adult bringing their church bulletin to the gate will receive a $5 discount off an adult admission.
Proceeds from Ocoee River Jam are distributed to local youth organizations. In its first five years, the music festival has donated more than $20,000 to local youth programs.
For more information: ocoeeriverjam.com.