Emerging in the wake of Bayfest’s cancellation, Ten Sixty Five introduced a new concept to downtown Mobile in 2015. With a scaled-back lineup, free admission, fewer stages and a stronger focus on regional musicians, the event promised a different experience, and for the most part it delivered.
An Open Layout Built Around Local Business
Rather than a gated-off area, the inspired open layout among Dauphin Street businesses let guests wander freely and support local establishments. A major headliner anchored each day, including George Clinton and Parliament Funkadelic, Three Days Grace and Sublime with Rome.
The Jake Peavy Foundation stage sat beside Moe’s BBQ, facing OK Bicycle Shop, and many fans watched from the rooftop of the former business for a unique vantage point. The second stage, focused mostly on local musicians, was set in Cathedral Square and offered plenty of grassy space to spread out.
Highlights From the Stages
P-funk opened the first night with its trademark bass-heavy grooves, fronted by the grandmaster of funk himself, George Clinton. The music carried a block away, and the crowd never stopped moving. Meanwhile, on the Wind Creek Casino stage, Mobile musicians Kristy Lee and Eric Erdman performed; Lee drew a sizable audience of her own.
Sublime with Rome drew arguably the largest crowd of the weekend, with fans packed shoulder to shoulder singing along to “What I Got” and “Santeria.” Original bassist Eric Wilson is the sole remaining founding member, with Rome handling vocals and guitar after the death of frontman Bradley Nowell.
After the main stages closed, venues such as Azalea Manor hosted free after-parties. Sunday night featured Mobile band Fat Man Squeeze performing an acoustic set of guitar, mandolin and upright bass.
Many local businesses reported a welcome boost during the festival, and the event offered a new vision of what a downtown Mobile music festival could be. Organizers hoped it would become a yearly tradition enriching the culture of the Azalea City.