Derek Trucks and Susan Tedeschi Trucks, founders of the Grammy-winning Tedeschi Trucks Band, are two of the most influential musicians connected to Northeast Florida’s modern music legacy.
A Jacksonville native, Derek rose to international prominence as a slide-guitar prodigy and longtime member of the Allman Brothers Band, now widely regarded as one of the greatest guitarists of his generation. Susan built a celebrated solo career as a blues and soul powerhouse, earning multiple Grammy nominations for her unmistakable voice, resonant songwriting, and blues guitar prowess.
Together, they formed the Tedeschi Trucks Band in 2010, blending blues, soul, gospel, rock, and improvisational musicianship into a dominant force in the roots-rock and blues touring circuit.
Beyond their global success, Susan and Derek have remained deeply committed to Jacksonville. Through their nonprofit, the Tedeschi Trucks Band Foundation, they support music education by providing instruments, lessons, and mentorship to young musicians in need — including partnering with Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation to donate instruments to Englewood High School, where Derek himself was a student.
Their partnership with Blue Jay Listening Room — named 2025’s small business of the year — reflects their broader investment in Jacksonville’s independent music ecosystem. By championing intimate listening-room spaces, they bring nationally recognized artists to local stages, strengthen the regional touring circuit, and create opportunities for emerging musicians.
Susan and Derek’s continued local engagement is a powerful example of how world-class artists can meaningfully give back — helping sustain the creative spaces where the next generation of songwriters and musicians can be heard.
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