Top American blues artist Chicago Red plays at Scream Lounge on Friday, in the only event of this year Croydon Jazz and Blues Festival.

A lack of sponsorship meant the festival has to be scaled down from last year but organisers have still managed to attract Red to come over from Los Angeles and perform.

Red, 55, began playing the piano at age six, met Louis Armstrong and Count Basie at 10 and switched to guitar playing at 12.

Influenced by old bluesmen such as Big Maceo, Tampa Red and Big Bill Broonzy, he and has toured all over the world.

Chicago Red with special guests, Scream Lounge, South End, June 18, 8pm, £10. Call 020 8667 0155 or visit myspace.com/screamstudios.