Mississippi Blues Legend Jesse Robinson Honored with Blues Trail Marker and Parade Grand Marshal Role
March 20, 2025
The Mississippi Blues Commission unveiled a Blues Trail Marker honoring guitarist Jesse Robinson at Iron Horse Grill on Thursday, March 20, following his selection as Grand Marshal for the 2025 Hal's St. Paddy's Parade and Festival on March 22.
Robinson, 80, is a former Mississippi Blues Commission board member who helped establish the Blues Trail Marker program. The marker recognition at Iron Horse Grill marks a significant milestone in his six-decade career performing and preserving Mississippi's blues heritage.
"It makes me feel good. I mean, it's just like a payday," Robinson said following a regular Friday performance at Hal & Mal's. "I really appreciate that because so many people touch me and I think I've touched so many people in a very positive way."
The 2025 Hal's St. Paddy's Parade features the theme "Hey, Hey, The Blues is All Green!" honoring Mississippi's legacy as the birthplace of blues music. Robinson will lead the parade in his new role as Grand Marshal.
"I'm very excited about it. It's one of the greatest things in my career," Robinson said. "I've played the festival for many years, been involved for many years, and to be the Grand Marshal—it's great, I love it."
Born in Benton and raised in Mileston, Robinson began playing guitar at age six alongside his father in church. His family relocated to Jackson in 1961 when he was 16. In 1965, Robinson moved to Chicago, where he performed with blues legends including Buddy Guy, Junior Wells, Freddie King, and Magic Sam while working in a television factory. He returned to Jackson in 1971.
Robinson's career includes contributions to albums by Bobby Rush and Cassandra Wilson, as well as multiple solo recordings. He has performed with B.B. King, Little Milton, Bonnie Raitt, Gary Clark, Duke Huddleston, Jimmy King, and Sam Myers.
His contributions to Mississippi's blues heritage are commemorated on multiple Mississippi Blues Trail markers, including Hollywood Café, Holmes County Blues, Gold Coast, Cassandra Wilson, Queen of Hearts, and Subway Lounge.
The 2025 Hal's St. Paddy's Parade and Festival takes place March 22 in downtown Jackson,