Haffy’s Bar & Grill in Poplar Bluff will host a benefit jam Saturday, for blues singer Darrell Nelson to assist with his upcoming knee surgery.
Nelson, who attended college to become a voice coach, has been singing and entertaining for many years of his life.
“I was once a home health care worker and now I need one,” said Nelson.
In August 2021, Nelson performed at an event known as Wapstock, after which he tragically fell and became paralyzed from the neck down. Despite his injuries, Nelson still performs and is now slowly walking again.
“I am still a starving musician,” Nelson chuckled, adding that he plans on moving to Nashville to start a recording career.
The event will start at 2 p.m. Saturday. Tickets will be sold at Haffy’s or Earl’s Diner in Poplar Bluff. Cost is $10 each. Raffle tickets will be sold five for $20 or $5 each for a chance to win a Berika 12-gauge shotgun. There will also be a 50/50 drawing.
Live music will begin at 2 p.m. featuring Kool Edition, Buzz Buddies, Cynderblok, Zeds Dead, Just Enough, Vintage Vibes, Back Road Drive and Thin Blue Line.
“This is going to help me out a lot, get some bills paid and help with travel expenses,” said Nelson.
He will have physical therapy after the surgery, “but I’m still singing,” he said, of an event county fair he invited to perform on April 27 in California.
The live music event will take place between 2-8 p.m. Saturday. Those in attendance will enjoy music, food, drinks and prizes.