Kelley Hunt brought her powerhouse live blues show to JazzFest 2012 in Sioux Falls. Hunt, an independent pianist and singer, developed her hip, burly sound as a result of listening to her jazz and blues singing mother and Gospel singing grandmother. She was also influenced by artists like Ruth Brown, Billie Holiday and Ray Charles along with legendary pianists Toots Washington, Professor Longhair and Johnnie Johnson. Hunt's live performances have drawn critical acclaim while she remains a fiercely independent artist.
Hunt appeared at JazzFest on July 28, 2012. She was accompanied by guitarist John Rhodes, bassist Kenny Ames and drummer Hamilton Hardin.