Kentucky Natives Joan Shelley and Jake Xerxes Fussell to Perform at Singletary Center

Unique Musical Showcase Scheduled in Lexington, Kentucky

LEXINGTON, Ky., (April 4, 2024) — In a promising end to the Singletary Center’s 2023-2024 programming series, acclaimed Kentucky-native singer-songwriter Joan Shelley and southern blues and folk artist Jake Xerxes Fussell are slated to perform at the University of Kentucky Singletary Center for the Arts. The riveting co-headlined concert will take place on April 6 at 7:30 P.M.

Joan Shelley: A Unique Storyteller

Joan Shelley’s musical artistry is heavily influenced by her home state of Kentucky. However, she confidently treads the line between tradition and modernity in her compositions. Rather than label herself a folk singer, Shelley finds a more fitting description in the phrase; “I witness life.” Her music, rather than being composed of personal confessions, draws connections with life through the lens of nature and landscapes. Shelley’s latest single featured Montreal-based songwriter Myriam Gendron and was released in November 2023.

Shelley’s sixth and most recent album, Spur, was released in 2022 to critical acclaim. Recognized for her stellar performances alongside Bonnie “Prince” Billy, Wilco, Patty Griffin, and Andrew Bird, Shelley will arrive at the Singletary Center with the momentum of her recent performance at Knoxville’s Big Ears Festival.

Jake Xerxes Fussell: Tuning into Tradition

Jake Xerxes Fussell, a respected North Carolina singer and guitarist, is renowned for his innovative interpretation of traditional folk songs. Known as “the leading interpreter of American folk music right now” by Ann Powers of NPR’s All Songs Considered, Fussell blends humanizing narratives into his music, delving into the layered meanings of the folk genre. With a unique approach to recontextualizing songs of the American South, Fussell creates an immersive experience that brings their stories and histories to life.

Event Details

University of Kentucky students can claim a free ticket to the show by presenting their UK Student ID at the SCFA Ticket Office on or before the day of the performance. Non-students can purchase tickets at the SCFA box office, online, or by phone at 859-257-4929. The concert will be held in the Singletary Center Recital Hall, envisioned to be a night of musical excellence.

The University of Kentucky, a well-known flagship land-grant institution, remains committed to advancing the commonwealth by preparing the next generation of leaders. They understand the transformative power of arts and culture and are always striving to offer enriching experiences to their students, alumni, and the broader community.

Press Contact:

Kristi Willett
Email: kristi.willett@uky.edu
Phone: 859-323-6363