The event, which is free and open to the public, will take place Thursday, April 11, at 7:30 P.M. Rush’s performance at ASU is co-sponsored by the ASU Lecture-Concert Series.

The son of a Baptist minister who was also a blues musician, Rush was born in Louisiana and moved to Pine Bluff at the age of eight. At 13 his family moved to Chicago where Rush performed with such blues greats as Freddie King, Luther Johnson, Bobby King and Luther Allison. In 1983 he moved to Jackson, Miss., where he currently lives.

Rush has recorded for several labels, including ABC Records, Jewel, Warner Brothers,

Philadelphia International, and LaJam. Among the numerous awards and recognitions for his music are "Best Live Performer of the Year," "Best Blues Entertainer of the Year," and "Best Soul/Blues Albums of the Year." In 2000, the Mississippi Senate passed a resolution honoring Rush’s music.

While he is not performing at festivals and concerts, Rush and his wife work to raise money for research on sickle cell anemia. Additionally, they have opened their home as an emergency shelter to children leaving a local youth correctional facility. Rush is also involved in local Blues in the Schools programs.

For additional information about this concert or other Delta Blues Symposium events, call 870-972-3043 or send e-mail to delta@astate.edu. The symposium’s web site may be accessed at www.clt.astate.edu/blues.