Eric Clapton’s 2026 Crossroads Guitar Festival returned to Austin’s Moody Center for a seven-hour celebration of guitar-driven music, featuring blues, rock, jazz, country, and bluegrass artists. With performances by Buddy Guy, Jimmie Vaughan, Joe Bonamassa, Tedeschi Trucks Band, John Mayer, and more, the eighth installment featured standout collaborations and an all-star finale in support of Clapton’s Crossroads Centre in Antigua. Explore our photo gallery for highlights from the performances, special guest appearances, and unforgettable closing jam.
Author: Michael Lepek
Michael Lepek
Michael Lepek is a Chicago-based photographer known for his energetic live music photography, particularly in the blues and funk scenes. His work has been featured by American Blues Scene and Tomorrow’s Verse, capturing artists at iconic Chicago venues like Garcia’s and festivals such as the Juke Joint Festival. He also has a background in video production and works with youth through After School Matters in Chicago.
Chicago’s reborn Ramova Theater hosted a double-bill for the books: New Mastersounds’ farewell and Galactic’s unstoppable New Orleans funk.
Thornetta Davis and the Vincent Hayes Band lit up the sold-out Killer Blues Headstone Project fundraiser with unforgettable blues performances and infectious energy.
A Sunday to remember. Karina Rykman brought the funk, Dark Star Orchestra honored the Dead, and Umphrey’s McGee closed with an epic Pink Floyd tribute.
Under a warm summer sky and the soft glow of a strawberry moon, blues legends Taj Mahal and Keb’ Mo’ reunited as TajMo for an unforgettable evening of music, message, and musical kinship. Backed by a tight seven-piece band and joined by the electrifying Anne Harris on violin and vocals, the duo delivered a set steeped in joy, unity, and deep musical conversation—reminding everyone why their collaboration continues to strike such a powerful chord.
Grace Potter lit up Chicago with a dynamic three-night solo run, blending her own hits with Dead covers, playful improv, and surprise detours.
Honoring the timeless legacy of Jimi Hendrix through powerful performances and charged guitar mastery! Eric Johnson, Ally Venable, Devon Allman, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Marcus King, and many more, are brought together on the Experience Hendrix Tour.
At a sold-out Thalia Hall, Bill Murray took to the stage with the Blood Brothers band for an unforgettable performance. Despite initial nerves, Murray’s charisma and passion for music shone through as he belted out hits like Dylan’s “Like a Rolling Stone” and The Kinks’ “Tired of Waiting.” With an all-star cast, including blues veterans Mike Zito and Albert Castiglia, the night was a celebration of both Murray’s comedic charm and musical talent.
Let me take you on a journey through the captivating sounds of My Son The Hurricane: a band that brings a storm of musical brilliance to the stage.
Booker T. Jones, the legendary musician and maestro of soulful melodies, recently graced the stage of The State Theater in Kalamazoo, MI.