“King of Strings” Carvin Jones Takes the Stage Tonight
Article by Brooke Wagner
Photo courtesy of Carvin Jones
In an event that brings together students and music enthusiasts, the renowned blues guitarist Carvin Jones takes the stage at MSU Billings for one night only. Known for his soulful melodies and electrifying performances, Jones’s concert is a much-anticipated highlight of the college’s musical offerings. Held at Cisel Hall on the campus of MSU Billings, the concert begins tonight (September 19th) at 8:00 pm.
Guitarist Magazine voted Carvin Jones “one of the 50 greatest blues guitarists of all time.” This “King of Strings” has performed in 37 countries, captivating each audience with his skillful blend of classic blues riffs, blazing fast fingerpicking, and flashy, energetic style.
Born in Lufkin, Texas, Jones was drawn to the blues from a young age, influenced by the BB King records his grandfather played at home. His grandmother bought him his first guitar at age 7, and he clung to music as a lifeline to draw him out of the challenges of the neighborhood he was raised in. Jones spent his time teaching himself to play and moved to Arizona at 19 to officially begin his music career. Jones soon found himself sharing the stage with the same music icons who initially influenced his love of guitar. He has toured with legends, including BB King, Santana, Buddy Miles, Jimmy Vaughan, and Joe Cocker. He played one of the most meaningful tours of his career in 2011, visiting American troops in Iraq and Kuwait.
MSU-Billings has a reputation for fostering musical talent and promoting cultural events. This concert, in particular, brings exceptional, world-renowned talent to town and gives students a chance to experience the unity and celebration found in every song Jones plays. More than just a musical performance, it will celebrate blues heritage, provide a mentorship moment for young musicians, and be a testament to the enduring power of live music. Carvin Jones will captivate his audience tonight as he transports listeners from Cisel Hall into a smoky juke joint that might be found somewhere deep in the southern Delta.
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