By Renee Clark Quade

The Devon Allman Blues Summit at Kegs was the kind of night that reminded you why live music is so powerful. It felt less like a typical show and more like a big family gathering where some of the best blues and soul players in the world just happened to be trading songs back and forth.

The evening opened with sets from Jackson Stokes and Greg Koch, both warming up the crowd in their own unique way. We were especially excited to finally see Jackson Stokes perform a solo set, as we’ve heard so many great things about him from our friend Claudia Hoyser. He more than lived up to the hype, delivering a performance full of passion and energy. Stokes is also a member of the Devon Allman Band and played throughout the Summit with confidence and heart.

Once the full Summit kicked off, Devon Allman led the charge, bringing each guest out one by one until the stage was packed with talent. From the first notes, you could feel how special the night was going to be. Devon’s guitar work was sharp and soulful, and he kept the flow moving between heartfelt solo moments and full-band jams that lit the crowd up.

When Jimmy Hall stepped in, the energy spiked instantly. His harmonica cut through the night air, and his voice was as strong as ever. “Blues Is a Feelin’” set the tone, and later, when he sang “Keep on Smilin’,” he paused to say he hoped people came out to the show to leave their troubles behind. Judging by the cheers, that is exactly what the crowd did.

Larry McCray delivered some of the most moving moments of the night. His guitar solos were deep and raw, and on songs like “Soulshine” and “Hands & Knees,” you could hear the weight of every note. During “Soulshine,” he was joined by Greg Koch, turning it into one of the standout stretches of the night as the two traded guitar licks that had the crowd cheering.

Sierra Green absolutely floored the audience. Her voice was full of soul and power, lifting “Real Love” into something unforgettable. When she sang “Please Call Home,” the whole place seemed to go quiet, just hanging on every word. Sierra brought the heart of New Orleans to Jordan, and it was one of the highlights of the entire Summit.

Backing the lineup was the heartbeat of the Allman Betts Band, with John Ginty on organ and keys and John Lum on drums. Together, they laid down the foundation for every jam and gave the night its steady pulse. Their presence was every bit as essential as the headliners.

The sense of unity on stage was undeniable. By the time they reached “Peace to the World,” Devon had the entire crowd on their feet, clapping and singing along. It felt like the artists and the audience were all part of the same moment, exactly what a night of blues should be.

The encore was the perfect way to close things out. Devon and Sierra teamed up for “Runners in the Night” from the Blues Summit album, then the whole lineup came back for “Midnight Rider.” Hearing that classic played with so much love and energy was the perfect send-off, a nod to legacy and a promise that the blues are still alive and thriving.

After the last notes rang out, the night didn’t end right away. Devon, Sierra, Greg, and Jackson Stokes all came out to meet fans and sign autographs, giving the evening a personal touch and making it even more memorable for everyone who was there.

Setlist
Wash in Am
After You (Jimmy enters, then Sierra)
Blues Is a Feelin’ – Jimmy (Larry at the end)
Jackson & Larry guitar solo
One Way Out
Wang Dang Doodle – Jimmy & Larry
Real Love – Sierra
Melissa – Devon solo
Soulshine – Larry with Greg Koch
Hands & Knees – Larry
Please Call Home – Sierra
Keep on Smilin’ – Jimmy & everyone
Peace to the World – Jimmy & everyone
Encore:
Runners in the Night – Devon & Sierra
Midnight Rider – everyone

The Devon Allman Blues Summit at Kegs was one of those nights you walk away from knowing you just witnessed something rare. Each artist brought their own flavor and together they created a show that was overflowing with soul, joy, and connection. This wasn’t just a night of music. It was a reminder of what happens when legendary voices and rising stars come together to celebrate the blues.

The Summit tour is running now through October 11. If you get the chance to catch a show, do it. This lineup will not disappoint.

See photos from the show below: