YZ Ealey

YZ Ealey is a name synonymous with the rich musical history and culture of Natchez, MS and the Miss-Lou.  The middle child of eleven siblings, YZ was born just south of Natchez is Sibley, MS.  He began playing guitar at the age of 10, using the guitar of his older brother “Bubba” (David).  Only playing traditional gospel music at home (because that was the only style of music his mother, Lucinda would allow in the house), YZ and his brothers would practice often.  This continued until Mr Ealey joined the US Navy in 1955.  

After being discharged from the Navy, YZ briefly settled in Oakland, CA with his older brother Bubba and performed with famous blues artists such as Big Mama Thornton, Johnny Fuller, Jimmy McCracklin, and L.C. “Good Rockin” Robinson.

YZ returned to Natchez in 1959, marrying his wife Sarah Ann; and began billing himself as YZ “Good Rockin” Ealey ( In tribute to Robinson).  He then formed “YZ Ealey and The Merry Makers”  with his brothers Melwin and Theodis.  The band became the house band for the famous Ferriday, LA nightclub called Haney’s Big House and were opening acts for names such as B.B. King, Big Joe Turner, Bobby “Blue” Bland, Larry Birdsong, Little Milton, and countless others. 

YZ has continued performing locally, regionally, and nationally over the years sharing his music and repeating his famous motto “Keepin’ the Blues Alive” to his audiences.   He has been the recipient of numerous awards and honors including being inducted into the Delta Music Hall of Fame in 2017, The Jus’ Blues Living Legend award in 2019, and is featured on three Mississippi Blues Trail Markers.  One of the markers features YZ and his brothers; and is located on the bluff of Natchez, MS.

Alvin Shelby

Music Director Alvin Shelby has performed in Italy, Canada, Africa, London, Paris, and the US. Specializing in traditional inspirational music, he also writes and performs music for children, film, and jazz. His choirs have performed around the country including the J.P Getty Museum, The John C Handy Festival In Alabama, and the Sundance Film Festival. He has made numerous television appearances including CBS Sunday Morning and The TV series Promised Land, and has worked with artists such as Lemmie Battles from the Chicago Mass Choir, Dr. Margaret Douroux, Dr. Princella Lee, Benjamin Cone, David Curry, and Elton John. In addition, he has produced many recordings, and been the musical director for many artists such as Tricia Walker, Dr. Princella Lee, Holy Family Gospel Choir, and the award-winning program Southern Road To Freedom.

The Highway to Heaven Choir

The Highway to Heaven singers are some of the best singers in Natchez. They come from a variety of ages, professions, and churches around the city. This program pays homage to the original Highway to Heaven program that was held back in the 1950s. It was performed at the Rose Hill Baptist Church, later moved to the Beulah Baptist Church, and was performed for the annual pilgrimage season in Natchez. With this updated version we pay tribute to the people who were part of the original Highway to Heaven.