Inching closer to its 20th Anniversary, the New York Guitar Festival, launched in 1999, begins early next month with a Mother’s Day tribute concert to the “godmother of rock ‘n roll”, gospel-blues legend Sister Rosetta Tharpe. The free show will include performances by Grammy-winning blues artist Alvin Youngblood Hart, Dom Flemons of old-time string band Carolina Chocolate Drops, gospel trio Como Mamas, and more, all of whom will perform in celebration of Tharpe’s musical achievements with her poignant lyrics and energetic talent on the electric guitar. With huge gospel rhythms and bluesy performances in honor of an iconic musician, the Ring the Golden Bells: Celebrating 101 Years of Sister Rosetta Tharpe event kicking off the New York Guitar Festival will do justice to a legend.

For more information, view the event page at Arts Brookfield’s website.