As the summer heat quickly approaches, Corpus Christi can cool down at Cole Park, home of the Bay Jammin’ concert and cinema series for the past 35 years. Settled between the ocean and the city’s skyline, it’s perfect entertainment for families, out-of-town visitors, and music lovers.

Preparing to celebrate their annual event this summer, John “JJ” Nelson detailed what it’s like leading and organizing the series since its inception.

“In ’89 I had lunch with the city’s Park and Rec … I said ‘Hey, let’s do something cool in that amphitheater. Let’s do concerts … so, if they have a gig later that night, they can play and promote for their show.”

In the absence of social media, Bay Jammin’ allowed artists and fans in Corpus to connect with each other. Now, their Facebook page has over 13,000 followers and around 5,000 group members.

Then part-owner, Nelson conceived the idea from a bar he worked for.

“The Cantina Santa Fe [was] actually quite a famous … live music venue. They had many, many, many people of all genres, I mean rock, folk, jazz, country, reggae. Really extraordinary.”

Founded in the ‘70s, the Cantina attracted young crowds with rock ‘n roll music. During the ‘80s, artists like Stevie Ray Vaughan and George Thorogood were introduced to Corpus. By the ‘90s, Bay Jammin’ was established.

“People are just so appreciative that we have different kinds of music. Some people may not have been into reggae, but now they’re like ‘Man, I really like reggae. That was pretty good’ because they never would go see a reggae band … but because it’s free and it’s a beautiful night, they go see it.”

Bands like Cruise Control, Whiskey Down, Nico Little, and Pink Floyd tribute band Any Colour You Like are popular with audiences; however, new sounds are introduced all the time.

“In 2023 I was called on stage to play with [Any Colour You Like],” said Raul Ayala, a younger musician based in Corpus. “It was amazing to be in front of all those people. In 2024 I got my own slot for my band … This year we are headlining our Bay Jammin’ date for the first time, so I’m very excited,”

“Bay Jammin’ helps a ton because I get to see people enjoying what I enjoy right in front of me [on] one of the biggest stages.

PG movie screenings were introduced in 2003, and the concert and cinema series format has established itself as a staple in local family entertainment for decades.

“Unfortunately, a lot of people think that all this stuff is funded by the city or the county—no, we go out and get grants like everybody else,” said Nelson, who is chair of the nonprofit board Bay Jammin’ Series Inc.

While the city provides Bay Jammin’ with use of the Cole Park Anderson Amphitheater, trash pickup, and security, Nelson and his board pay for movie licensing, advertising, sound and light production, plus accommodations and meals for the bands in addition to their performance fees.

Besides the grants they apply for, and the few they receive, Bay Jammin’ depends on the support of its community, local businesses, and volunteer board members. Donations are encouraged to continue the Bay Jammin’ series Nelson explained.

“I always try to be better every year … every dime I get, I spend on this show.”

Box:

Bay Jammin’ concert and cinema series, Cole Park’s Anderson Amphitheater, every Thursday and Friday, June through Aug., after dark around 7:30 pm to 10 pm.