Benton Harbor blues fest attracts music lovers

A returning popular music festival turned Benton Harbor into a hot spot for jazz lovers.

The fifth annual Mr. Lee’s Old School Blues Festival attracted hundreds of folks across Michiana and even brought out fans from all over the Midwest.

Good old fashioned fun topped off with an old school tribute to a classic group.

Just don’t call organizer Lee Kirksy old.

“I’m 72-years old, and I'm a singer dancer comedian actor promoter,” said Kirksy.

Kirksy’s latest promotion is a blues fest based in Benton Harbor known to attract music lovers from all across the Midwest.

“Michigan, Indiana, Missouri, Kentucky, Ohio,” he said. "I’ve been giving it myself for five years trying to fellowship and bring six states together.”

Fellowship and good music from local artists and international entertainers.

“We’re trying to get entertainers from around the world to come here to make Benton Harbor, our home town, the capital of entertainment,” said DJ Archie Davis.

A capital for entertainment with the hopes of revitalizing the community.

"Getting everybody together at least once a year to have a great time, you know, no violence,” said DJ Larry Jones.

This is the fifth year Benton Harbor held the event.

Kirksy says he’s planning to make next year's event even bigger.