Berea College welcomes Award-winning Canadian music group The Wailin’ Jennys

The award-winning trio The Wailin’ Jennys will perform at Berea College on Thursday, Feb. 2 as part of the 2023 Stephenson Memorial Concert series.

Comprised of artists Nicky Mehta, Ruth Moody and Heather Masse, the group entertains crowds with their harmony, musicianship and songwriting, blending original work with folk, blues and jazz elements.

“After last year’s concert was cancelled because of the pandemic, I’m thrilled the Jennys are finally performing a live show at Berea,” said Thomas Ahrens, director of the performance and distinguished speaker series at the College.

The Jennys began as what they call a “happy accident,” getting together for a one-time only performance at a small guitar shop in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. The group released its first full-length album, “40,” in 2004, which won the 2005 Juno Award (the Canadian version of a Grammy) for Traditional Roots Album of the Year.

Subsequent albums “Firecracker,” “Live at Mauch Chunk Opera House” and “Bright Morning Stars” have also been recognized with multiple Juno nominations and awards. In 2018, their latest album “Fifteen” was nominated for a Juno in the Traditional Roots Album of the Year category. Their current concert tour includes songs being road tested as tracks for an upcoming studio album.

Throughout their career, The Wailin’ Jennys have partnered with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) to raise money and awareness. Funds raised go toward providing nationwide education about mental illness and its treatment, as well as funding courses and programs designed to support those living with mental disorders.

The performance begins at 8 p.m. in Phelps Stokes Chapel and is free and open to the public.