Savannah Music Festival LIVE 1349 - Jon Cleary

A world-renowned keyboardist and vocalist, Jon Cleary draws upon 35 years of immersion in the New Orleans music scene to produce an eclectic style steeped in ‘70s soul, gospel, funk and Afro-Caribbean rhythms. In this Savannah Music Festival debut, Jon Cleary and his trio played on a co-bill with John Medeski’s Mad Skillet at the Ships of the Sea North Garden Assembly Room. A last-minute artist cancellation for the following day left an open set on a bill with Kat Edmonson. Knowing Jon Cleary’s aptitude for solo performance, and his recent work showcasing his deep knowledge of the history of New Orleans rhythm and blues piano, we asked if he might be available to stay in Savannah for an extra day to take on a solo set. Thankfully he accepted, and gave this stellar performance at the Charles H. Morris Center.