New Mississippi Blues Trail Marker Honors Jackson Music Venue Hal & Mal’s

Visit Mississippi has unveiled the latest addition to the Mississippi Blues Trail, recognizing Hal & Mal's, a beloved Jackson restaurant, bar and music venue honored for nearly four decades of dedicated promotion of blues music. Located at 200 Commerce Street, 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 included 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 Jackson, providing guests with live Mississippi blues and a delicious 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 the capital city and beyond.

"We are honored to recognize Hal & Mal’s with a Mississippi Blues Trail marker," said Kamel King, Visit Mississippi Cultural Tourism Director. "Since its opening, Hal & Mal’s has been a cornerstone for uniting the community through the power of music. This marker is a testament to their unwavering commitment to preserving and celebrating the heritage of our beloved state."

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.

“As a beloved Jackson restaurant and music venue, we are thrilled for Hal & Mal’s addition to the Mississippi Blues Trail," said Yolanda Clay-Moore, Visit Jackson’s Director of External Affairs, Partnerships and Alliances. "Hal & Mal’s has always been an establishment that represents the best of Jackson’s rich blues heritage. This acknowledgment proudly showcases its enduring legacy in our community.”

Malcolm White, Co-Founder of Hal & Mal's, said, "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. We are grateful to add our story and our roots to the deep tradition of the blues, the taproot of all American music."

For more information on the Mississippi Blues Trail, visit msbluestrail.org. For more information on Hal & Mal’s, visit halandmals.com.