Soul on the Deuces
The Deuces, 22nd St. S., St. Pete. July 22, 8 p.m. Event on Facebook.
Hey, white people: Did you ever wonder where all those black artists who played Florida in pre-integration days (which some would argue last until today, but this is supposed to be a feel-good A&E piece, not a political statement, so we won’t go there) slept? Yup, they could entertain the white folk but they couldn’t sleep in white hotels. In St. Pete, that meant they slept on the south side, where all the black folks lived. Turns out, when these talented artists went to the south side, they’d jam a bit, too, which means if you’re still wrinkling your nose at the southside because the homes there aren’t as pretty as the ones northeast of Central, you’re wrinkling your nose at some amazing history and heritage. Soul on the Deuces celebrates that heritage with blues, hip-hop, jazz, DJs, art, food and heritage. The best part? unlike our white ancestors, they’ll welcome everyone to the street party. While you’re there, pop your head into Deuces BBQ to check out the photos on the wall. Mr. Brayboy at Chief’s Creole will give you the whole story, if you can catch him.
