Franko “Washboard” Jackson, a beloved local musician, is in need of a liver transplant, and the community is coming together to help.
Before he can be put on the transplant list, Jackson, who is in his 60s, must be able to show he can pay for the first year of medical expenses that his insurance won’t cover.
This Thursday, fellow musicians, countless friends and family members will gather for a “Franko Fest” fundraiser to help Jackson get the medical treatment he needs. The cash-only event will include live music, drink specials, festival food, a raffle and a silent auction.
In his 20s, Jackson moved to New Orleans and began to play around with the washboard, a homemade percussion instrument made out of the metal washboards used for washing clothes.
In 1975, he saw an ad in the Times Picayune: “Washboard Player Wanted: Non-Professional Only.”
He was surprised to find he was the only one to show up to the audition.
A musical career was born.
Jackson played all over New Orleans at formal shows and on the streets. He sat in with Professor Longhair, one of his musical idols. He formed a jug band with some musicians from New York who he still plays with today.
In 1985, Jackson moved to South Walton with Eileen, the woman who would later become his wife. For 30 years, he’s been delighting crowds with various bands, including Hubba Hubba, the band playing this Sunday at 30A’s Locals Last Stand party.
Jackson’s one-of-a-kind washboard style is incredible to watch, especially highlighted by his generous smile and the joy he expresses while playing music.
Jackson is also a painter and his folk paintings can be found in homes all across South Walton and beyond.
Many people are bringing their Jackson originals to the event on Thursday for a gallery display.
The event will run from 7 p.m. to midnight at Trebeaché.
