Amanda Shaw Kicks-Off 2026 Bayou Jam Spring Concert Series
The City of Slidell is tuning up for another season of music along the bayou as Mayor Randy Fandal announces the return of the Bayou Jam spring concert series. The festivities begin on Sunday, April 26, 2026, at 5 p.m. in Heritage Park with a performance by Louisiana’s own fiddle sensation, Amanda Shaw.
Now celebrating its 23rd year, the Bayou Jam concert series offers residents and visitors premier musical entertainment in a family-friendly, outdoor setting. Admission to all concerts in the series is free to the public.
“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Amanda Shaw back to Bayou Jam,” said Mayor Randy Fandal. “She is an amazing artist who truly embodies the spirit of Louisiana music. I encourage everyone to gather their family and friends, head down to Heritage Park, and enjoy a great evening of free music and community fun.”
Opening the series, Amanda Shaw brings over two decades of experience to the stage. She is a powerhouse of Louisiana music, blending deep-rooted Cajun influences with a high-energy mix of rock and pop. A violin prodigy since childhood, Shaw was raised in the vibrant New Orleans music scene. This unique upbringing allowed her to fuse classic fiddle techniques with the jazz, blues, and funk sounds of the city. By the age of 15, she had already secured a record deal with Rounder Records and appeared in Disney films, establishing herself as a versatile artist determined to redefine fiddle music.
Throughout her prolific career, Shaw has become a mainstay of American pop culture, performing on national stages such as the Today show and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Her music reflects a joyful intersection of her heritage, drawing from her father’s Louisiana roots and her mother’s Guatemalan culture. As she prepares for her latest project—collaborating with Dolly Parton’s longtime bandleader, Kent Wells—Shaw continues to push the boundaries of the Americana genre. Her work remains a dedicated celebration of community and tradition, ensuring that Louisiana’s unique musical legacy stays modern and forward-moving.
The Bayou Jam Spring/Summer 2026 schedule:
- Sunday, April 26: Amanda Shaw
- Sunday, May 3: Monster Crawfish
- Sunday, May 17: Some Enchanted Evening with the Northshore Community Orchestra
- Sunday, May 31: Audio Beach
- Sunday, June 7: Bobby Ohler and the Harbor Band
Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets, ice chests, and picnic baskets to the park. Concessions will also be available for purchase.
In the event of inclement weather, the city will announce cancellation decisions by 1 p.m. on the day of the event. Updates will be posted on the city’s website, MySlidell.com, and on the “City of Slidell” Facebook page.
For more information regarding the Bayou Jam concert series, please contact the Department of Cultural & Public Affairs at (985) 646-4375 or visit MySlidell.com.
