The free Massive Music coincides with Mountain Masterpieces Arts & Crafts Fair which fills the mall with over 40 artists showcasing work ranging from extravagant to inexpensive, and an "auctionette" at the renowned Anderson Ranch Arts Center. This auctionette includes a picnic lunch (barbecue and huge vats of ice cream) followed by a typically standing room-only auction of resident and visiting artist works. It's an incredible opportunity to pick up art work by both respected and up and coming artists. Music, movies, and art: three incomparable mediums in one spectacular weekend!

 

Mavis Staples

For over 40 years, Mavis Staples has blazed a rhythm and blues trail while still retaining her gospel roots. Her family group, the Staples Singers, acquired the moniker “God’s Greatest Hitmakers” in the 1950s and became the spiritual and musical voice of the civil rights movement. Staples is a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee and one of VH1’s “100 Greatest Women of Rock and Roll.” Nominated for a Grammy Award with Bob Dylan in 2003, she has put out eleven albums and also recorded with the likes of Ray Charles, Dr. John, George Jones, and Natalie Merchant. In 2007, she was awarded the Americana Music Association's "Spirit of Americana" award in Nashville, Tennessee. www.mavisstaples.com

 

The Outlaws

Following in the footsteps of such great bands as The Allman Brothers and The Eagles, The Outlaws developed their own high-powered, guitar-driven country-rock, complete with exciting self-penned music and stellar three-part harmony. The Outlaws have established themselves as premiere players in the phenomenon of Southern Rock.

Along with original singer/songwriter/guitarist Henry Paul and original drummer/songwriter Monte Yoho, the Outlaws feature Chris Anderson, Billy Crain, Randy Threet, and Jon Coleman. Chris Anderson, lead guitarist and longtime Outlaws bandmate, brings his considerable talent as a player, singer, and songwriter to the band. His solo records for Sony in the early 90s and his collaboration with Dickey Betts, Dan Toler, Warren Haynes and The Outlaws over the years have helped establish him as one of Southern Rock’s most notable players.