Ruthie Foster’s Grammy-Winning “Mileage” Tour Rolls Into Riverhead

Grammy Award-winning blues artist Ruthie Foster will perform at The Suffolk on Friday, August 22, at 8 p.m.

Foster, a Texas-born singer-songwriter known for her powerful blend of blues, gospel and folk, made history earlier this year with her first Grammy win. Her latest album, “Mileage,” released on the legendary Sun Records label, earned Best Contemporary Blues Album at the 2025 Grammy Awards — marking the first-ever Grammy win for Sun Records.

Raised in a gospel-rich environment in Gause, Texas, Foster’s earliest influences came from her mother, grandmother and local gospel choirs. Though she initially preferred writing and playing music behind the scenes, she found her voice — literally and figuratively — with encouragement from her family and church community.

After studying music in college, Foster enlisted in the Navy and sang with the Navy band Pride. She later signed a development deal with Atlantic Records in New York City, but turned down a major-label offer to pursue an independent path true to her sound.

Foster’s acclaimed discography includes “Runaway Soul” (2002), “The Phenomenal Ruthie Foster” (2007), “The Truth According to Ruthie Foster” (2009) and “Healing Time” (2022), among others. Her emotionally resonant songwriting, commanding vocals and authentic presence have earned her five Grammy nominations and a loyal following worldwide.

Tickets range from $35 to $69 at thesuffolk.org. The Suffolk is located at 118 East Main Street in Riverhead.