Teddy’s Juke Joint 

Walking into Teddy’s Juke Joint for the first time, I stopped in my tracks. I had never been to a juke joint, so I had nothing to compare it with. My eyes scanned the interior, taking in all the memorabilia; signs, posters, old license plates, strung lights and Teddy’s throne where he  DJ’s and spins tunes during breaks. He’s a natural entertainer himself . The wall behind the bandstand is colorful and is a great background for taking pictures of the performers. I walked around and took it all in. I was charmed by the magic. Teddy had invited me to come out and knew I’d want to hang out if I ever got there. I took my time getting there because I live 30 miles away. When I finally got there, I was greeted by Teddy and Nancy; all smiles and full of life.

The place gives you a warm feeling and entices you to stay. The musicians are hand picked by Teddy and his wife, Nancy. They have the roots of the blues in their souls and you know the music will always be wonderful. Musicians love to perform at Teddy’s. I’ve personally seen and heard Kenny Neal, “Lil” Ray Neal, The Neal Brothers, Oscar ”Harpo” Davis, Kenny Acosta, Little Jimmy Reed, Bryan Lee and a host of other local and traveling groups. Local musicians show up for the Sunday Jam and give you their best. Teddy lets them know they are appreciated and they can tell they are important to him and his guests. If ever there were people trying to keep the blues alive, it’s Teddy and Nancy..

Teddy was born in the old shotgun house which is now the Juke Joint. He and Nancy decided to turn it into a blues joint in 1979. They sure did a top notch job of it. They love their place and are proud to share it with you. Both of them are friendly, warm and charming. They make you feel welcome and see to it that your needs are taken care of, whatever they may be, if possible. Nancy runs the kitchen, commonly known as “Nancy’s Kitchen” and she’s got it going on. The food is some of the best I’ve ever had and the service is exceptional. She is sort of laid back and easy going and has a certain charm that makes you feel like an old friend.

All in all, I would and do steer people to Teddy’s Juke Joint. It is an experience you won’t regret or forget. The next time you are in the area, even as far as New Orleans, it is worth your while to get to Teddy’s. Check his web site for schedule of events and view the photo’s.
( teddysjukejoint.com).