No birthday blues

When Brackins Blues Bar opened on May 1, 2002, Maryville learned it had a taste for the Blues.

One of the first venues to open its doors to live music, Brackins Blues Bar has grown in size and popularity. Providing a stage for local, regional and national acts, the club has become a welcome haven for the many music lovers that live in Blount County.

The past five years have seen several expansions to the club. Owner Mark Brackins has added an outdoor deck, a gaming area and a kitchen with what some say is the best bar-food in town.

But the improvements aren’t done. Brackins said there are plans to expand the deck even further, giving customers more room to stretch out while listening to what many consider some of the best Blues groups working today.

In celebration of everything that’s happened over the past five years, Brackins is planning something big.

On Sunday, June 3, the club plans to say "thank you" to the town of Maryville with the help of Blues Legend Joe Lewis Walker.

While the multiple Grammy award winner is the highlight of the day, he is far from the only attraction. The bar will open its doors at 2 pm, and with their $10 price of admission, customers will be treated to pizza and barbecue. Drink specials will run throughout the day.

Walker takes the stage at 8 p.m.

"He’s one of the biggest acts we’ve had through here," Brackins said.

A show of this caliber would normally cost $15, the club owner said, and that’s without food.

"I want to try and thank everyone for their support. Maryville’s been real good to us, and we just want everyone to know we appreciate it."

When asked about the future, Brackins said he hopes things continue moving forward.

"We’re going to keep growing, and I hope the downtown area does, too. I would love to see a whole entertainment district down here. Not just the Blues, but everything."

"I’m really glad I chose Maryville five years ago," Brackins said. "I can’t wait to see what happens over the next five years."