What better way to beat back the winter blues than with a little music? Step out of the cold and into the Hayes Performing Arts Center this January as we present two hot nights of cool music.

We kick things off with The Winter Blues Festival, featuring the return of the mighty King Bees, and the High Country debut of Atlanta’s own Beverly “Guitar” Watkins.

The King Bees were formed in Boone  in 1987 by Rob Baskerville and Penny Zamagni and have toured internationally. They have also appeared at Lincoln Center 3 times. The Bees have played with Bo Diddley and toured with BB King. They will be performing songs from their latest cd "Carolina Bound" which has been nominated for an IBC award.

Beverly "Guitar" Watkins was raised in rural Georgia and grew up playing gospel and blues. She got her start with Dr. Feelgood ( Piano Red) and played on the hit "Right String but the Wrong Yo Yo" in the early 60s which remains in her repitoire. This “pyrotechnic blues maven” has shared the stage with some of the world's greatest Blues and R&B legends, including James Brown, B. B. King and Ray Charles. Watkins' electrifying blend of Blues - from Roadhouse to Rockabilly and beyond – has wowed audiences all over the globe.

The Festival will also feature Winston-Salem bluesman Big Ron Hunter who will perform his take on Blues classics as well as his own unique originals. Big Ron Hunter, The King Bees and Beverly "Guitar" Watkins: Three Blues Greats that sound great together. Don’t miss out! Get your tickets today.

Just added: NC Artist, Jeff Morgan will be onsite with his one of a kind Blues Artwork.

Friday January 27th, 7:30pm. Tickets are just $20, and are on sale NOW.