Black and white historic photo of the Ballard Chefs Jug Band, all dressed as chefs and holding their instruments.

Jug Band Pioneer Earl McDonald in Louisville

At the age of 15, McDonald discovered his love for the jug and soon formed the Louisville Jug Band, which became the first of its kind to play at Churchill Downs during Derby week. His band quickly gained recognition, touring New York, Chicago, and beyond, with hits like Boodle-Am Shake and Louisville Stomp. McDonald’s skill and entrepreneurial spirit helped cultivate Louisville’s thriving Black music community, influencing generations of musicians and establishing jug music as a vital part of Kentucky’s musical heritage.


Though jug music’s popularity waned after the 1930s, McDonald’s legacy as a master musician and networker lived on, commemorated today by the Earl McDonald Historical Marker. As a key stop on the Kentucky Music Trail, this site honors the man who transformed everyday objects into instruments of joy and innovation, spreading the sounds of Kentucky jug music across the globe.

Events

Upcoming Events

From national headliners to impromptu jam sessions, there’s always live music in the air in Kentucky. See what’s on stage during your exploration of the Kentucky Music Trail.

Muhlenberg County Music Museum in Central City

Muhlenberg County Music Museum in Central City

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Ernest Hogan – Father of Ragtime – Historic Marker

Ernest Hogan – Father of Ragtime – Historic Marker

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John Prine Memorial at Rochester Dam

John Prine Memorial at Rochester Dam

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The Paramount Arts Center

The Paramount Arts Center

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Johnny Cash-Carter Wedding Historic Marker

Johnny Cash-Carter Wedding Historic Marker

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Lyric Theater

Lyric Theater

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Bobby Mackey Honky Tonk

Bobby Mackey Honky Tonk

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Old Joe Clark Monument

Old Joe Clark Monument

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Manchester Music Hall

Manchester Music Hall

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Norton Center for the Arts in Danville

Norton Center for the Arts in Danville

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Digital Passport

Rewarding YourLove of Music

Track your travels along the Kentucky Music Trail with the free passport app. Simply visit participating sites to collect “check-ins”—the more milestones you reach, the more giveaways you could qualify for including concert tickets and VIP merch.