Mississippi’s reputation as the birthplace of American music rests on icons like Elvis Presley, B.B. King, Robert Johnson, and Jimmie Rodgers. Yet the state’s musical heritage runs far deeper than the usual headliners. The Clarion Ledger is spotlighting four remarkable Mississippi artists who deserve a place on your playlist, rolling out their stories in a series of individual features over the coming days.
Annie and The Caldwells: Gospel Roots, Global Reach
From West Point, the family ensemble Annie and The Caldwells carries a sound that blends gospel, soul, funk, and disco. Led by matriarch Annie Caldwell, the group includes her husband, children, and goddaughter. They have taken their music to stages across Europe, Asia, and Australia, while Annie runs a local clothing store specializing in church attire. Their 2023 album Can’t Lose My Soul offers a powerful entry point. The band will also perform at the National Folk Festival in downtown Jackson on November 13–15.
Dorothy Moore: Beyond “Misty Blue”
Jackson native Dorothy Moore is globally recognized for her 1976 chart-topper “Misty Blue,” but her catalog deserves wider appreciation. Moore honed her craft at the Alamo Theatre’s talent shows on historic Farish Street before her voice carried her worldwide. Her recordings span soul classics like “Funny How Time Slips Away” and “With Pen in Hand,” gospel projects, and releases on her own label, Farish Street Records. She remains based in Jackson, performing with Mississippi musicians. An upcoming hometown show at Duling Hall will celebrate 50 years of “Misty Blue,” promising a setlist that reaches far beyond that single hit.
Anissa “Bigg Sexyy” Hampton: Southern Soul with Conversation
Born in Chicago and raised in Jackson, Anissa Hampton studied voice at Tougaloo College and toured singing opera and spirituals before spending years as a background vocalist for artists such as Willie Clayton and Calvin Richardson. Now fronting her own act as “Bigg Sexyy,” she delivers Southern soul, blues, and R&B with a touch of raunchiness and plenty of crowd interaction. Her original tracks “Watch Yourself” and “Do You Really Want to Leave Me” showcase her range, and she is currently working on an EP titled Variations of Me.
Maya Kyles: The Drummer Who Steps to the Mic
Jackson drummer Maya Kyles has likely backed some of your favorite regional acts without you catching her name. Her credits include performances with Hampton, Dexter Allen, Eddie Cotton, Bobby Rush, and the house band for “Late Night With Rita Brent.” Her passion for drums ignited during Mississippi Mass Choir rehearsals with her grandmother. While funk is a favorite, she navigates multiple genres with ease. Through her own project, Maya Kyles and the Delights, she also sings and develops her songwriting — an artist to watch both behind the kit and at the microphone.
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Charlie Drape covers Jackson and considers telling you what to listen to a public service. Send recommendations, disagreements and invitations to a good show to [email protected].
