9:00pm • $10 Cover
Johnny and the Headhunters
Johnny Ticktin is a Washington, D.C.–area blues guitarist and vocalist with deep roots in classic electric blues. He picked up the guitar at age six and went on to share stages with legends including Louisiana Red, Albert Collins, Luther Allison, and Sunnyland Slim. A longtime student of masters like Magic Sam, Otis Rush, Muddy Waters, and T-Bone Walker, Johnny brings an authentic, hard-driving blues sound to every performance.
He is the founder and frontman of The Headhunters, a band he formed in 1979, known for delivering powerful interpretations of Chicago and Texas blues classics alongside standout originals. Their latest recording features a rotating lineup of seasoned players, including members with ties to The Nighthawks and other notable acts, along with standout keyboard work from Tam Sullivan.
The album pays tribute to blues greats with cuts like “That’s All I Need” and “All My Whole Life” (Magic Sam), “Shake Your Money Maker,” and “Lead Me On,” while also showcasing Johnny’s sharp guitar work on instrumentals like “Collins Mambo.” A special duet with D.C.’s Liz Springer adds local flavor, and the band’s take on “Body and Fender Man” nods to Johnny’s longtime career as the owner of JT’s Auto Service.
With crisp vocals, expressive guitar, and a deep respect for the blues tradition, Johnny Ticktin delivers a set that’s both authentic and electrifying.
Pete Ragusa
Pete Ragusa is a veteran Washington, DC–area drummer best known for powering the groove of legendary blues band The Nighthawks, with whom he toured internationally and recorded extensively. A cornerstone of the Mid-Atlantic roots scene, he has shared stages with Tom Principato, Scott Ramminger & The Crawstickers, Moonshine Society, Dave Chappell, Patty Reese, Catfish Hodge, Tommy Lepson, and many more. Whether laying down deep pocket shuffles or fiery roadhouse backbeats, Ragusa brings decades of feel, finesse, and road‑tested energy to every show, making him one of the go‑to drummers for top‑shelf blues and Americana in the region.