Performing as the duo, Sultana, Jon and Li Waterman weave history and original songs to feature a rotating array of real and legendary characters and happenings throughout history. Some of the subjects are the earliest known author, Arthurian legend, the lost ancient libraries of Alexandria and Nalanda, an epic medieval battle, and an infamous radio broadcast. The show includes Massachusetts history as well.
The program is the second in the series “Live Music Making History Live.” Jon has presented the first show of the series “A Journey Through the Roots of American Popular Music” in libraries and other venues around the country, both in person and virtually. The performances received enthusiastic reviews from those in attendance.
“What a pleasure it was to host Jon and Li Waterman for an afternoon of live music and history story-telling in Monroe. Their performance, “History and Legends Through Song” was the perfect combination of slide show, impressive acoustic guitar music, and remarkable original songs that gave our audience a new way to relate to some very significant history. Plus, we were the first to be introduced to their new, self-titled album, Sultana! The duo was engaging, warm and gracious, and everyone thoroughly enjoyed the presentation. Highly recommended!”– Sharon Oakes, Director of Communications, Monroe Historical Society, Monroe, MA
“A Journey Through the Roots of American Popular Music” by Jon Waterman is a unique performance experience combining music history, storytelling, and original songs inspired by his research. Waterman successfully transforms fascinating tales from history into an evening-length performance that feels personal, contemporary, and politically relevant. A must see for anyone interested in American history or American music!” – Sarah Swifter, Director, MAGMA – Gloucester, MA (November, 2019)
About Sultana
Musician and songwriter Jon Waterman has been performing his original songs along with blues, rock and country standards throughout his life. His music is influenced by intriguing characters and stories from history, the roots of the music he loves, and the diversity of the human experience. His song “Sultana” which tells the story of the Civil War steamboat disaster was selected to be featured at the Sultana museum in Marion, AR. Waterman has presented his programs “A Journey Through the Roots of American Popular Music” and “History and Legends Through Song” in venues around the country, both in person and virtually. He has an M.A. in Popular Music History from Prescott College. Li is a classically trained guitarist and singer who formerly fronted the Rhode Island band Alien Tesh. She is also an artist and graduate of Museum School in Boston.
