Rep. Gregory Holloway Sr. appointed to Mississippi Blues Trail Commission
JANS– Representative Gregory Holloway Sr. of Hazlehurst has been appointed by Speaker Jason White to serve on the Mississippi Blues Trail Commission, with his term beginning immediately and extending through June 30, 2029.
The Mississippi Blues Trail Commission is charged with protecting, promoting, and celebrating the state’s unmatched musical legacy. Mississippi is recognized worldwide as the birthplace of America’s music, and the Blues Trail serves as a living museum, featuring over 200 markers that honor legendary musicians, historic venues, cultural milestones, and the communities where the blues took root. The Commission plays a central role in determining where new markers are placed, ensuring historical information is accurate, and collaborating with local leaders to highlight the state’s cultural significance.
Beyond historic preservation, the Commission works to strengthen tourism, support local economies, and encourage statewide engagement with Mississippi’s musical story. The Blues Trail attracts visitors from across the country and around the world, offering a meaningful connection to the roots of genres like rock ’n’ roll, jazz, soul, and country, all of which trace influence back to Mississippi blues traditions. The Commission also partners with educational institutions, museums, and cultural organizations to develop programs that teach younger generations about the artists who shaped modern music.
As a member of the Commission, Representative Holloway will take part in reviewing marker proposals, assisting with research, supporting community-driven heritage projects, and promoting initiatives that broaden public awareness of the Blues Trail. His role includes helping ensure that the contributions of both well-known and lesser-known Mississippi musicians are properly recognized and preserved. Holloway may also participate in ceremonies for new marker unveilings, work with tourism officials to expand the Trail’s reach, and assist in strategic planning to maintain the Trail’s prominence for years to come.
Representative Holloway’s deep roots in Hazlehurst, a community that produced iconic blues legend Robert Johnson, give him a unique appreciation for the cultural power of Mississippi’s music. He has long championed efforts to honor Mississippi’s musical heritage, playing a pivotal role in designating a segment of I-55 between Hazlehurst and Crystal Springs in Copiah County as the Robert Johnson Blues Memorial Highway, as well as a section of Highway 51 in Crystal Springs as the Tommy Johnson Blues Memorial Highway. These designations reflect his ongoing commitment to ensuring Mississippi’s blues legacy is preserved, recognized, and celebrated.
“I am honored to serve as a Commissioner for the Mississippi Blues Commission as I work to ensure that the Blues reach its highest level of recognition,” Representative Holloway said.
