The Villages Blues Society upcoming events

JP Soars & The Red Hots (05/28/2026)

Thu, 28 May 2026 22:00:00 GMT

Who is JP Soars?

Of course, Soars and his powerhouse trio the Red Hots — including drummer Chris Peet and bassist Cleveland Frederick — are also no strangers to electrifying live performances. It’s little wonder; Soars and Peet have played together for nearly 20 years, while Fredrick, “the new guy,” has been with the band since 2016. They’ve proven their mettle on stages both nationally and internationally, played blues festivals from Belgium to Brazil, and shared stages with the likes of Buddy Guy, Joe Bonamassa. Brian Setzer and Larry Graham.

They’ve also been seven time regulars on the Legendary Rhythm & Blues Cruise, no little wonder considering the fact that they’re familiar faces on both coasts of South Florida, the place Soars proudly calls home.

“I consider myself both blessed and honored to get to play music for people,” Soars says humbly. “It’s a privilege. I am extremely grateful and I never take it for granted for a minute. I love putting smiles on folks faces and maybe help some folks forget about their troubles for a while. Seeing people dancing, and having a good time puts a smile on my face.”

Soars may be modest, but even so, it’s little wonder that his reputation is so revered. It prompted Bruce Wheeler, producer of the ever-popular Heritage Music Festival to recently write, “I’ve always been a proponent of live music. The “magic” that happens when the chemistry between musicians… is something that cannot be put into words. That is exactly what I said after experiencing the performance of JP Soars Gypsy Blues Revue at the 2021 Heritage Music BluesFest. See them when ever you have the opportunity.”

Happily, Soars is never at a loss for activity. A dedicated multitasker, he has also performed with the all-star blues ensemble, Southern Hospitality, a band that includes singer/keyboard player Victor Wainwright and vocalist/guitarist Damon Fowler with Chris Peet on drums and Matt Walker on bass. Not surprisingly then, their 2013 debut album, Easy Livin’, garnered a a Blues Blast Award for Best New Artist Debut Release. Soars says plans are afoot to reconvene soon.

In the meantime, Soars can claim an impressive catalog of his own, encompassing half a dozen albums released over the course of nearly fifteen years — Back Of My Mind (2008), More Bees With Honey (2011), Full Moon in Memphis (2014), J.P. Soars: Live From the Netherlands (2015), Southbound I-95 (2018), and his last album, Let Go of the Reins (2019), produced by Tab Benoit. The latter garnered some of the best reviews of his career, with Blues Blast Magazine describing it as “A super set of tunes that will make your summer travels a lot of fun as you savor this CD over and over again. I highly recommend it!” No Depression added its kudos as well, proclaiming “Soars has put together a rowdy, swampy package bustin’ at the seams, ready to get loose and spread the red-hot glory emanating from his fingertips.”

Then again, Soars was inspired by the best. At the age of 18, he found himself the recipient of a guitar and tickets to see the great B.B. King in concert, after which he was given an opportunity to meet the legendary musician backstage. After a brief flirtation with heavy metal, Soars realized that he best excelled at basking in the blues. Not content to merely share his playing prowess, he also builds his own cigar box guitars and compact 9 volt battery-powered amplifiers, which in turn, have become prized one-of-a-kind collectors items treasured by aficionados worldwide.

Still, Soars isn’t one to take his success for granted. In fact, he remains firmly grounded, not only in his love of the music, but his appreciation for his fans.

“When someone comes up after a show and says ‘thank you’ or ‘I feel what you do in my heart and soul,’ This is the greatest compliment for me,” he reflects. “It gives me a sense of purpose and I know I’m right where I should be doing exactly what I am meant to do. The good Lord gave me a gift and I love sharing it with the world.”
— Lee Zimmerman, May 2024

Check out this video:

Member Appreciation Gathering (Featuring The Blues Generators) (07/08/2026)

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 22:00:00 GMT

MEMBER APPRECIATION GATHERING

Featuring: The Blues Generators and Special Guests

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We've had these gatherings before and everyone has a great time

Members get in free but must be registered here

Non-members join today then you will get in free after you join log in and sign up for a spot for free

But everyone must register to be guaranteed a seat

This event is limited to two seats per household membership and one seat per individual

Volunteer Appreciation (Josh Rowand & Friends) (08/12/2026)

Wed, 12 Aug 2026 22:00:00 GMT

Josh Rowand and Friends

Known for his fun-loving mix of traditional and original blues, Josh Rowand is proud to be the only US endorsed artist with Ali Kat Guitars. With his stunning guitar work, he leads crowds through a repertoire of all that is blues and more. Putting the bite in blues, Josh delivers a show that reminds you why you fell in love with the blues.

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The Villages Blues Society thrives because of the time, energy and heart poured into it by an incredible community of volunteers.

Behind every gathering, event and shared moment is a group of dedicated individuals who give selflessly to create something meaningful for everyone.

Their commitment transforms simple ideas into memorable experiences, building a sense of belonging that defines what the Blues Society is all about.

From organizing events and coordinating activities to welcoming new members and lending a helping hand wherever it's needed, these volunteers are the backbone of the club.

They bring creativity, enthusiasm and care to every detail, often working behind the scenes without recognition.

It's their generosity and teamwork that ensure The Villages Blues Society continues to grow, evolve and remain a vibrant part of Village life.

We celebrate and thank each volunteer for the countless hours and genuine passion they contribute.

Their efforts don't just stain the Blues Society, they elevate it, making it a place where friendships flourish and community spirit shines.

Because of them the The Villages Blues Society isn't just a club, it's a living, breathing reflection of what people can accomplish together.