The East Ridge Parks and Recreation and the city of East Ridge are presenting a free concert series at Camp Jordan Park at I-75, Exit 1 on Saturday, Sept. 20 and Oct. 18.
The first Camp Jordan Jam is Saturday night at 7 p.m. at the park’s Amphitheatre at 323 Camp Jordan Road in East Ridge.
Camp Jordan Jams was created to bring people together for fun, fellowship, music and food.
East Ridge Parks and Recreation Director Stump Martin said, “We want to bring people from East Ridge and throughout the region to Camp Jordan Jams. We want the people with their chairs and blankets, as well as the many car clubs and motorcycle riders to show up and have a good time. We want everyone to see what a beautiful place Camp Jordan is for fun and recreation.”
Mr. Martin said this is an effort to give something back to the community and create a safe happening place in the area for folks to gather to have fun.
“We are going to introduce Camp Jordan Jams this fall and if we have the success we anticipate we will schedule more free concerts in April, May and June of 2015,” Mr. Martin said. “Camp Jordan is a happening place to be all of the time, however with a Bass Pro Shop scheduled to be built adjoining the park, we can expect even more activity in the future.”
Camp Jordan Jams will open on Saturday night with Nashville performer Travis Dukes. The multi-talented singer, songwriter and performer has opened for the up and coming Charlie Worsham and Billy Dean.
The Beaters, will take the stage on Sept. 20. The band is in the Chattanooga Music Hall of Fame and has been together since 1985.
An offer has been made to a group for the Oct. 18 concert and the Parks and Recreation Department is awaiting a confirmation.
Review for Travis Dukes:
Dukes is a coal miner's son, who grew up singing in the church choir as a boy and later made his way through college performing in various venues around Bowling Green, Ky. He has a degree in special education and taught in the Williamson County, Tenn., school district for three years before making music his full-time profession.
“I learned a lot from the kiddos,” said Mr. Dukes. "Patience is key.”
With roots in gospel, Mr. Dukes varied influences also include the music of Nirvana, Garth Brooks, Tom Petty and Eminem.
“I really get into the storytellers,” said Mr. Dukes. “It's how a story is shared through music that relates to everyone.”