The latest addition to the Mississippi Blues Trail has been unveiled with Jackson restaurant, bar, and music venue Hal & Mal’s being recognized for nearly four decades of dedicated promotion of blues music.
Located at 200 Commerce Street in the heart of Downtown Jackson, Hal & Mal’s is a gathering place for locals and visitors alike, blending authentic Mississippi blues music and cuisine. The marker joins over 200 others in the statewide trail, highlighting pivotal sites linked to the genre and encouraging visitors to explore Mississippi’s rich musical heritage.
Established in 1985 by brothers Hal and Malcolm White, Hal & Mal’s quickly became a cultural hub in the capital city, providing guests with live music, including the blues, and a Gulf Coast-inspired menu. Over the years, the iconic venue has welcomed countless renowned musicians, alongside local and regional talents, fostering a vibrant continuation of the blues legacy within central Mississippi and beyond.
“Hal & Mal’s and the White family are proud to join the trial for this remarkable, American music initiative. Telling the Mississippi Story and promoting Mississippi’s creative economy has always been our mission and our business plan,” Malcolm White said. “We are grateful to add our story and our roots to the deep tradition of the blues, the taproot of all American music.”
The Mississippi Blues Trail, managed by the Mississippi Blues Commission, features markers at significant locations across the state that are pivotal to the blues genre and its history. These markers honor the musicians, places, and events that have shaped the blues and its profound influence on American music, from the birthplaces of legendary artists to iconic clubs and other landmarks integral to the genre’s development.
“We are honored to recognize Hal & Mal’s with a Mississippi Blues Trail marker. Since its opening, Hal & Mal’s has been a cornerstone for uniting the community through the power of music,” Visit Mississippi Cultural Tourism Director Kamel King said. “This marker is a testament to their unwavering commitment to preserving and celebrating the heritage of our beloved state.”
