The upcoming Mayfest, May 3&4, in the downtown Leesville historic district has brought visitors from around the country to the downtown area since its inception 49 years ago. Imagine a two-day celebration of music, arts/crafts, and food with no admission and a great environment. The Vernon Parish Journal staff has heard reports for years of a longtime Mayfest fan who is only seen in town at Fest time. Rumor has it he sleeps under the stage during the festival evenings, he knows all the musicians and most of the vendors. We recently came into possession of Mayfest Mac’s notes on music, arts, and food for this year’s event. He didn’t say not to use them when we contacted him on the matter. So, here’s Mayfest Mac’s take on the 2024 musical line-up:
FRIDAY, MAY 3
4-5 p.m. The Old Man Band: Feel good old rock & roll, inspirational favorites, and even a touch of classic country. One thing…they will have loyal fans in attendance. They play early at Mayfest because they have an evening curfew!
5:15-6:15 p.m. Gypsy La Blue: Long time local guitar master Ken “Zen” Jones, with his muse Jessica blasting vocals, are backed by a tight band. They will stir the pot up with classic rock favorites, always with a bit of an edge!
6:30-7:30 p.m. Hurricane Junction: The band is only about two years old, but these guys are long time veterans of the Louisiana music scene…Beaucoup years of playing all over by these cats.
7:45-8:45 p.m. Bad Moon Rising: Dallas based Credence Clearwater Revival tribute band. Come take a trip through rock music history. As real as real can be! p.s. You know all the songs!
9-10:30 p.m. Rockin Doopsie/Zydeco Twisters: Grammy Award winning Louisiana artist with legendary bloodlines. NO WAY you do not pass a good time with this band on stage! NO WAY!!
Saturday, May 4
9-9:50 a.m. Opening Ceremonies and Posting of Colors by FT. Johnson Honor Guard; welcoming remarks by local officials.
10-10:50a.m.,Johnson Temple COGIC Choir; 11-11:20a.m. JMJ & Judah Praise, 11:30-11:50a.m. Jeffery Johnson, Noon-12:50p.m. Pleasant Hill Baptist Church Choir
These local groups feature talented instrumentalists, voices lifted in praise, a three-hour block of multi-cultural southern gospel music.
1-2 p.m. Amazing Rhythm Disciples: New seven-piece band with an EXTREMELY unique blend of gospel, secular, and inspirational music. You may recognize some of these players from other bands. High Energy and a one-of-a-kind band for Louisiana.
2:15-3:15 p.m. LA Scramble Band: Fronted by noted zydeco accordionist Shawn Saucier. Staples of the live music scene in SWLA. Dancing in the streets is quite possible during their set…and is encouraged!
3:30-4:30 p.m. Josh Hyde and the Lost Parish: Long time headliner among Louisiana blues guitarists and a Mayfest veteran. Recently released fourth CD. Relax on the courthouse lawn and immerse yourself in his tasteful guitar licks.
4:45-5:45 p.m. Dash Paz (paws): Last time we saw him was between sets at the 2023 Mayfest. Been playing a lot around Nashville the last year as a traveling troubadour. IT MAKES A DIFFERENCE!! Back with a full set on the Mayfest stage.
6-7:15 p.m. David Sylvester Band: From South Louisiana to Mobile Bay across the Gulf coast these guys bring a noise and R&B/soul vibe with great originals and thoughtful covers. Get your groove thing on!
7:30-8:45 p.m. Johnny Earthquake and the Moondogs: Central Louisianas top party band, one of the hardest working groups in music today…Loud…Fun…Electric! Known across the Gulf coast as Great Ambassadors of Louisiana Music. No current warrants out on any of them!
9-10:30 p.m. Alex Smith: Louisiana musical envoy to the 2023 Tournament of Rose’s parade and the Grand Marshall of the Alexandria Mardi Gras Parade; rising country crooner. YOU MUST LEARN THE BOOTSHAKE DANCE MOVE BEFORE SATURDAY NIGHT!
Mayfest Mac says come early and stay late…enjoy the music and the food and take some arts/crafts home with you!