Jackson Free Press

For many people, the preparation for a major music event is almost as important a part of the festival-going experience as attending. Whether you're planning an adventurous road trip to the venue or just selecting the perfect pre-festival playlist, there's fun to be had before you hear a single soulful note.

Unfortunately, locals will miss out on the travel when it comes to the third annual Jackson Rhythm & Blues Festival, but the second activity is still a must for any music lover. Here are a few tracks to get you started on your own mix of a few new tracks and old favorites from this year's must-see artists.

1. "I'm Every Woman" by Chaka Khan
2. "Too Much Love" by Dorothy Moore
3. "I Gotta Have It" by Vick Allen
4. "This Old Heart of Mine" by The Isley Brothers
5. "Three Times a Fool" by John Nemeth
6. "No Love Back" by Eddie Cotton
7. "Queen of Big Hurt" by Macy Gray
8. "Fall for You" by Leela James
9. "Infiniti" by Raheem DeVaughn
10. "Tell You What I Know" by Jj Thames
11. "I Do Love You (You Ain't Got to Lie)" by Avery Sunshine
12. "Boogie in the Dark" by Bobby Rush
13. "No Idea" by Nappy Roots
14. "Stepping Stone" by Shane Dwight
15. "Baptized in Muddy Waters" by Ayron Jones and the Way