One look at the lineup for the 2025 version of the Shell Daze festival, and a jam band/improvisational theme was crystal clear. Despite the similar theme, the music was as diverse as ever. A beautiful spring day welcomed throngs of fans to the historic Overton Park Shell where The Velvet Dogs kicked off a long day of music in front of an early arriving crowd.
It’s safe to say most of that crowd was eager to see 18-year old Grace Bowers and her band The Hodge Podge who were next on the bill. Despite her youth, Bowers has left a wide crater in the wake of her early career. Instead of worrying about high school finals, the prom and where to go to college, Bowers and her unique Blues based guitar playing have been blazing a wide path throughout the music world.
Daniel Donato was next up with a long set of his patented Cosmic Country jam infused chaos. With the sun setting in the background, Donato’s non stop ride included the debut of Elvis Presley’s That’s Alright Mama. Presley, played his first concert at the same venue 75 years ago.
As the sun gave way to a glorious nightfall, funk legends Lettuce wrapped up the festival with a set that left all areas of the venue bouncing to the long time improv kings. With a bass line vibrating throughout midtown Memphis, it’s safe to say the animals at the nearby Memphis zoo got to enjoy the festival as well.
Here’s a photo gallery of the 2025 Shell Daze Festival.
