About the Artists

Catfish Stephenson is a well-regarded blues musician, celebrated for his authentic style and live performances. Previous footage shows him playing at the Up North Bar in Madison, Wisconsin, indicating a continuing relationship with the venue and a popular draw for blues fans in the area. Fans appreciate his engaging stage presence and traditional blues sound, making the event well worth attending for live music enthusiasts. Catfish Stephenson is an American blues musician, living and working in Madison, Wisconsin, United States. One of the city's best established street musicians (he has played on State Street since 1968),[1] he has performed widely across the Midwest, has toured the United States and Europe, and performed live on A Prairie Home Companion.[2] Stephenson is best known for playing slide guitar on a national steel guitar. Stephenson is best known for playing slide guitar on a National steel guitar. Stephenson has influenced numerous younger musicians, including the Chicago-based guitarist, Joel Paterson, who met and played with Stephenson when the former was a teenager.

His repertoire is an encyclopedia of American Roots music and also includes his own prolific songwriting. Stephenson has influenced numerous younger musicians, including the Chicago-based guitarist, Joel Paterson, who met and played with Stephenson when the former was a teenager. Guitarist John Hasbrouck was mentored by Stephenson during the 1980s. Hasbrouck later dedicated his debut solo album, Ice Cream, to him.

About the Venue

Up North is a vibrant bar and live music venue in Madison, offering a great space, excellent selection of beverages, and a friendly staff and patronage. The bar is the central gathering place for local live music, hosting performances from 6:30 to 9 PM every Monday to Friday. Customers often describe the atmosphere as joyous, with a welcoming community of regulars. While parking can be limited during peak hours, the bar is known for its clean taps and good food.