Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience Comes to Louisville

By Alisha Proffitt Photos Provided 

The blues has a way of speaking straight to the soul, and thanks to Morgan Freeman, Eric Meier and their extraordinary team, its legacy is reaching new audiences in fresh, unforgettable ways. From their work with the legendary Ground Zero Blues Club to the creation of Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience they’ve built something truly special, a show that blends the grit and heart of Delta blues with the sound of a full symphony orchestra. 

We’re thrilled that this one-of-a-kind experience is making its way to Louisville. And thanks to our friends at the Louisville Orchestra, we were able to ask Freeman and Meier a few questions about the music, the mission, and what audiences can look forward to when the Experience comes to town. 

Alisha Proffitt: When you first opened Ground Zero back in 2001, what did you imagine it might become? And looking at it now, how close is it to what you pictured back then? 

Morgan Freeman: My partners, Bill Luckett, Howard Stovall, and I opened the club in 2001 to provide both local patrons and visitors to the Delta an opportunity to experience the best of blues right here in the Mississippi Delta. Fast forward to today, we are consistently recognized as the top blues club in the world with visitors from over 50 countries. The venue, music, and experience is authentic as it gets - great music and great times. 

AP: The Symphonic Blues Experience is such a unique idea, mixing raw blues with a full orchestra. What inspired this collaboration, and have the reactions from audiences surprised you at all? 

MF: My partner conceived of the idea back in 2022. After he met with an Australian Hip Hop band that had created a symphonic fusion album, he asked why not us. We looked around and recognized that this was a novel idea of blending blues with orchestral music. We piloted it in Savannah, Dublin, and Salzburg. 

AP: You cinematically narrate the story of the blues during the show. How do you communicate to the audience something that feels true to its history but also speaks to people hearing it for the first time? 

MF: We strive to honor the roots of the blues by sharing stories that echo the real lives and emotions of those who created this music. By weaving historical anecdotes with personal reflections, I hope to show both longtime fans and newcomers that the blues is not just a genre—it’s a living history of resilience and hope. Connecting those stories to what’s happening in the world today helps everyone see themselves in the music. 

AP: Blues has always been tied to real-life struggles, but it also carries with it hope. This is a sentiment many still relate to throughout the world today. What do you believe it is about music that makes it such a powerful vessel of expression, connection and healing?

MF: Music has a way of meeting people where they are, whether in sorrow or joy. The blues, especially, carries a message: even in the toughest times, there’s strength to be found in singing your story to someone who listens. That exchange—artist to audience—is what brings connection and healing. Through song, we discover that our stories are echoed by others, and that understanding fosters hope.

AP: When you think about the future, what impact do you hope to make with Ground Zero and the Symphonic Blues Experience?

MF: My hope is to preserve the authentic spirit of the blues while opening new doors for people everywhere to experience its power. With Ground Zero, we’re building a place of heritage and celebration, and through the Symphonic Blues Experience, we’re showing how this music continues to evolve and inspire in cities around North America. If each patron leaves with a deeper appreciation and a new sense of connection, then we’ve truly succeeded.

AP: Of course, we have to ask, are there any destinations or plans you are looking forward to during your visit to Louisville? 

MF: My time is limited but hopefully a stop or two from some great local food and some bourbon!

AP: Mr. Meier, you came on board as co-owner in 2018. What made you want to be part of Ground Zero, and what’s it been like working alongside Mr. Freeman and carrying forward the club’s legacy?

Eric Meier: I wanted to be part of an iconic music establishment providing entertainment to the Mississippi Delta for locals and visitors. It is an incredible brand and experience. I feel lucky and honored to work with Morgan Freeman, Howard Stovall, and the wonderful staff.

AP: Kentucky has a strong music culture and history of its own. How do you imagine the blues and orchestra pairing will connect with audiences here?

EM: Extremely well. We are excited.

AP: The Ground Zero Arts Foundation plans to do some great work for young musicians. Can you tell us about the charter and focus? 

EM: We recognize the need to support the local musicians that make this place special. Our non-profit foundation is specifically focused on providing educational support, financial planning and health care support to local musicians. 

AP: Ground Zero is often called “the crossroads of the blues.” From where you sit, how do you keep the music authentic while also letting it grow and evolve for new generations? What can we do to support new and emerging musicians and artists- what opportunities would you like to see more of? 

EM: Authenticity starts by honoring the originators and tradition bearers, giving them a stage and letting their voices be heard. At the same time, it’s vital to provide opportunities for younger artists to collaborate, explore, and blend genres. Supporting new musicians means investing in programs, mentorships, and—most importantly—making space for fresh ideas while staying true to the blues’ spirit. I’d love to see even more educational opportunities, music recording opportunities, and partnerships with schools and community organizations. 

AP: Now that the Symphonic Blues Experience is on the road, what do you hope audiences take away with them when they walk out of the theater? 

EM: Time well spent. Presenting the Symphonic Blues Experience in Louisville not only supports the city’s cultural landscape but also continues a tradition of meaningful musical storytelling, connection, and healing—giving local audiences a chance to see their own music heritage reflected in a new, unforgettable light. We are excited. 

For more information, visit: www.symphonicblues.com