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The Stories Behind Playing with Fire 's July 14 Show: A Journey through Music and Persistence

PwF Omaha • July 6, 2023
A group of men are playing guitars and singing on a stage.

In the world of live music, passion and dedication often form the foundation of extraordinary events. Playing with Fire, Omaha's non-profit organization committed to keeping the fire of music alive, is no exception. Let's dig deep into a few captivating stories shared by PwF Producer Jeff Davis, as he takes us on a journey behind the scenes of this year's Playing with Fire July concert series.


Listen to all the artists in order of appearance on PwF's Spotify playlist!

Listen on Spotify!
A man wearing a cowboy hat is posing for a picture with another man

2016 PwF - Sugaray Rayford and Jeff Davis

A Soulful Return: Sugaray Rayford


"I don’t just listen to music, I feel it in my soul, and that’s how I book the bands for Playing with Fire," says Jeff Davis, the catalyst behind the magic of Playing with Fire.


Davis fondly remembers Sugaray Rayford's extraordinary performance at the 21st Saloon and the resilience he and his band displayed when rain forced the 2016 PwF show indoors.


"Sugaray didn't disappoint, still giving it his all," Davis said. "Vanessa and I caught Sugaray two years ago at the Trois-Rivières en Blues festival in Quebec, Canada. We were amazed as he charismatically walked through the crowd singing. His booming voice doesn't require a microphone to blast out his message loud and clear with his full-on boogieing. Don't miss this show on July 14 - Big Suga is super sweet!"


Check this out:


A red white and blue logo for eddie 9v

High Energy and Hooks: Eddie 9V


When it comes to high-energy performances and infectious hooks, Atlanta-based blues rocker Eddie 9V knows how to set the stage ablaze...and they'll be doing just that on Friday, July 14. Jeff Davis recalls seeing Eddie and his band, where they left an indelible mark.


"Vanessa and I caught Eddie and his band in Omaha at the B Bar last summer after hearing raves reviews about his powerful shows filled with songs with great hooks. I'm still singing "3 AM in Chicago" in my sleep!" Davis said. Check out the song here:

Prepare to be mesmerized as Eddie 9V takes you on a sonic journey that will have you moving and grooving to the rhythm of the blues.


Coming Soon!

Part 2: The Stories Behind Playing with Fire's 2023 Concerts



Learn all about artists, venue, hotel accommodations, and event details visit PwF website: https://www.playingwithfireomaha.net

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