Southern soul on stage: grooving to the rhythms of The Chitlins

Moving to the American South is an all-encompassing experience filled with unique traditions, vibrant music, and, sometimes, surprising new vocabulary. When I first encountered a band called “The Chitlins,” I couldn’t help but wonder, what does that name mean?

As it turns out, “chitlins” are a singular dish in the American South consisting of cooked pig intestines primarily sourced from hogs. Although they can also be made from the intestines of a calf or veal, it’s the hearty version made from hog intestines that’s most often associated with soul food, a classic part of Southern cuisine. While some might describe the taste as delicious, what I can certainly affirm is that the band bearing this unique name is quite fun to listen to.

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The Chitlins, hailing from Gulfport, Mississippi, describe themselves as a band “bred from the love of country music, the blues, soul, and rock & roll.” The group is composed of five musicians who not only master their instruments but also embody the essence of the music they play – rugged, patriotic, and quintessentially Southern. Watching them perform is more than just a concert; it’s a cultural experience.

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The photographs featured in this post were captured at the Stagecoach Saloon in Ocean Springs, Mississippi. David and I stumbled upon this bar during our perpetual quest to find a country dancing club. Depending on the band, this is a perfect place for some good old-fashioned two-stepping.

To learn more about The Chitlins and experience their music, I recommend checking out their website. And if you’re in the Ocean Springs, MS, area, follow the Stagecoach Saloon on Facebook for updates on their events and dance nights.

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