On Saturday, March 1st, one of Blues’ biggest names took the stage at Houston’s 713 Music Hall. Austin, Texas native Gary Clark Jr. brought his guitar chops to the bayou city in support of his latest album, 2024’s JPEG RAW, his first headlining performance in Houston in several years.
Gary Clark Jr. has made a name for himself over the last 15 years as one of Blues’ most prolific performers, renowned for his ability to blend genres together to create a truly unique sound. With his latest album, the four time Grammy Award winner brings together an eclectic cast of features and songwriters, including George Clinton and Stevie Wonder, to add a new dimension to his discography.
Kicking off the show was 18-year old guitar phenom Grace Bowers. Along with her band the Hodge Podge, Bowers played a great set that displayed not only her skills on the guitar, but her ability to lead a band full of talented musicians, allowing each one their own time in the spotlight. Playing a number of songs off their recent album, Wine on Venus, Bowers and Co. proved that Blues and Funk will be safe with the next generation of artists.
Shortly after 9:15, Gary Clark Jr. took the stage. Donned in a wide brim Stetson and blanket-like poncho, the guitarist began his set with the first track of his newest album, “Maktub.” Clark Jr. continued on with a 14-song setlist, including five other tracks off the new album, joined by classics including “The Healing” and “Bright Lights.”
Joined on stage by a myriad of other instrumentalists and vocalists, including three singers, a percussionist, a keyboardist, and two other guitarists, Clark Jr. kept the energy high throughout his set. It’s always great to see a theater packed with fans of the Blues, and we’re excited to see (and hear) what’s next for the genre.
All Photos by Morgan Rosenbaum.
I'm a Houston-based concert and automotive photographer. I've been a music fan my whole life, and previously was the director for Coog Radio, the University of Houston's student radio station. I listen to a bit of everything, from blues to rock to EDM, but predominantly metal. Some favorites include Slayer, Iron Maiden, and Metallica. When I'm not behind the camera, you can catch me skating, going to car events, and buying too many coffee table books.
