CALLING ALL BLUES ARTISTS!
The EBS 2018 Memphis Bound Blues Challenge is coming soon!
On Aug. 17, 2018 EBS will begin taking your entries for Solo/Duo and Band Performance categories and Best Self-Produced CD. (Blues CDs by Northern Alberta blues artists released Nov 1, 2017 to Sept 5, 2018 and recorded on an independent label are eligible).
For Entry packages or to answer any questions, contact us at http://www.edmblues@gmail.com
The EBS Memphis Bound Blues Challenge follows the same rules and scoring as the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, TN
Entry DEADLINE is Sept 5, 2018 8:00 pm sharp
Solo/Duo and Band Categories
35th International Blues Challenge 2019 (in Memphis)
The 35th International Blues Challenge will begin with the International Showcase on Tuesday, January 22 and conclude Saturday, January 26, 2019 with the band & solo/duo finals again at the gorgeous Orpheum Theatre.
Eligibility Requirements:
Band members must be 2018 residents of Alberta north of Red Deer. All musicians must be 18 years of age or older, available for all qualifying and final rounds and must be able to travel to Memphis, TN for January 22-26, 2019. Acts will play one set, maximum 25 minutes in length for Qualifying Rounds. All songs presented must be Blues (acoustic/electric, Rock/Blues, Jazz/Blues, Country Blues or Rhythm & Blues). Entry fees are $50.00 per band and $25.00 per solo/duo act
- An act or individual must never have received a Blues Music Award nomination and an act may not participate in the Edmonton Blues Societies Memphis Challenge or the IBC more than three consecutive years.
- Every effort will be made to accommodate all applications received on time and that meet the established criteria. Should it be required for any reason deemed appropriate, the Edmonton Blues Society reserves the right to limit the number of entrants in the competition. Should it be necessary to exercise this right, a pre-screening of applications received will be conducted based on the sample music provided. The results of pre-screening process are final.
- You will be contacted for further information following the submission deadline.
- Direct your questions to:ibc@edmontonbluessociety.net
The EBS will help defray costs ($1000 per musician up to 5 members for bands) and cannot guarantee that all expenses for Memphis will be covered.
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The only artists who are deemed ineligible to compete in the International Blues Challenge are artists whose names have appeared on a final Blues Music Award ballot (formerly the W.C. Handy Awards). All other musicians who have had peripheral and/or professional contact through performance with a Blues Music Award nominee, including but not limited to touring band members and studio musicians, are deemed eligible for the IBC. The exception is band members of a band nominated for Band of the Year. If you are concerned that one of your band members might make your band ineligible, we suggest you visit our Award Search or call the Blues Foundation offices before entering your local challenge.
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An act is limited to three consecutive appearances at the IBC, i.e. there must be a break of at least one year after competing in three back-to back IBCs. An individual may not compete in more than one act in any capacity. A musician may not compete in the Band Division and the Solo/Duo Division, even if that musician represents a different Affiliate in each.
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Information packages and entry forms for IBC’s northern Alberta 2018 challenge leading to the Memphis January 2019 challenge are now available! Please contact: ibc@edmontonbluessociety.net
Memphis International Blues Challenge Stresses:
The best blues bands are good - anytime, anywhere, any venue with any backline. IBC is about the best BLUES acts; the opportunities, networking, sense of community and teamwork.
Prizes awarded by Memphis in 2016
The winners of the International Blues Challenge, in Memphis, receive cash and prizes such as professional consultations and assistance, gigs at some of the country's best festivals, as well as a slot on the 2016/2017 Legendary Rhythm and Blues Cruise.
Six prizes are awarded at the International Blues Challenge. In the Band Division, 1st, 2nd and 3rd place are awarded, each of which includes a cash award and other goodies. 1st and 2nd place prizes are awarded in the Solo/Duo Division. The Best Guitarist among the acts competing in Band Finals Saturday afternoon is also recognized, with the winner receiving a custom-built ES-335 guitar, generously donated by our good friends at Gibson Guitars.
2016 Prizes
1st Place Band
-- First Place International Blues Challenge plaque
-- $3000 cash
-- Blues Festival Guide 1/4 page color Ad in Blues Festival Guide annual print magazine; and Double banner size banner ad on its website for 6 months; and two songs in mp3 format (for 12 months duration) on our Jukebox and 4 Facebook postings on Facebook.com/Blues Festival Guide (145,000 Likes) with link through to band’s site.
Great gigs, including:
-- Legendary Rhythm and Blues Cruise, 2016 Legendary Rhythm and Blues Caribbean Cruise
-- Heritage Blues Festival Wheeling, WV
-- Telluride Blues and Brews Festival, Telluride, CO
-- King Biscuit Blues Festival , Helena, AR
-- Hot Springs Blues Festival, Hot Springs, AR
-- Eureka Springs Blues Weekend, Eureka Springs, AR
-- Gladstone SummerTime BluesFest, Gladstone, MO
-- Levitt Shell Concert Series, Memphis,TN
-- Big Blues Bender, Las Vegas, NV
-- Bottleneck Blues Bar Ameristar Casino, Vicksburg. MS
-- Daytona Blues Festival, Daytona, FL
2nd Place Band
-- 2nd Place International Blues Challenge plaque
-- $2500 cash
-- Blues Festival Guide – Double banner size banner ad on its website for 3 months and two songs in mp3 format (for 6 months duration) on our Jukebox.
Gigs, including:
-- Canal Bank Shuffle , Thorold, Ontario, Canada
-- Bottleneck Blues Bar Ameristar Casino, Vicksburg. MS
-- Daytona Blues Festival, Daytona, FL
3rd Place Band
-- 3rd Place International Blues Challenge Plaque
-- $1500 cash
Best Guitarist Award (in Band Finals)
-- Gibson Custom ES-335 guitar with Blues Foundation logo
-- Category 5 Amp
Best Guitarist Award (in Solo/Duo Finals)
-- Saint Blues Cigar Box Guitar with a hemp gig bag.
Best Harmonica Player sponsored by Lee Oskar Harmonicas
- Autographed Lee Oskar gold plated limited edition Lee Oskar harmonica
- Set of Lee Oskar harmonicas
- Additional set of Lee Oskar reed plates & accessories
- An opportunity to perform with Lee Oskar & friends in Seattle, WA at the famous Highway 99 Blues Club & Restaurant.
Best Self Produced CD
-- Personalized Plaque
-- $1000 cash prize
-- Radio airplay on Sirius XM Satellite Radio's B.B. King's Bluesville; Music Choice, your cable and satellite TV Blues channel, Blues Breaker status on The House of Blues Radio Show with Elwood Blues, PLUS additional airplay on radio shows hosted by our deejay judges around the country.
THE 2017 MEMPHIS BOUND BLUES CHALLENGE WINNERS
What a fantastic "Finals" competition this year in Edmonton!
Excellent performances by Rooster Davis and Dave Babcock, Hopus Hand, Rott'n Dan & Lightnin' Child, Joe Nolan, The Dylan Farrell Band and The James Band. There were standing ovations today!!
This evening, we are thrilled to announce the winners......drum roll please!
These guys are going to the International Blues Challenge in Memphis,TN to represent Northern Alberta: Joe Nolan for Solo/Duo category and The Dylan Farrell Band for Band category.
Congratulations! We are proud to have Joe Nolan, Dylan Farrell, Jeff Burwash, Nigel Gale and Eric Doucet represent Northern Alberta at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, TN in January 2018.
In the Best CD Category, the winner is Boogie Patrol's "Man on Fire".
Finals Competition!
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 15th
Finalists compete for the opportunity to represent Northern Alberta in the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, TN in January 2018
Competing in the "Finals" in order of performance
1. Rooster Davis (David Aide) & Dave Babcock
2. Hopus Hand (Ben Sures & Grant Stovel)
3. Joe Nolan
4. Rott'n Dan & Lightnin' Child (Dan Shinnan & Will Ryan)
5. The Dylan Farrell Band
6. The James Band
Join us at the OLD TIMERS CABIN - 9430 SCONA ROAD
Doors at **12:00 PM - Music at 1:00 PM **
Tickets $20 for members and guests available at the door. No advance tickets for this event. Proceeds from this event help defray the travel costs of musicians heading to Memphis.
A huge thank you to Long and McQuade, Tracy Kolenchuk (Tracy O'Camera) and our friends at CJSR and CKUA for promoting Edmonton Blues Society and keeping the blues alive.
Tuesday, September 19, 2017 @ 7:30 pm
- Hopus Hand (Ben Sures & Grant Stovel)
- Glenn Gray
- Joe Nolan
- Nick Samoil
- The Poet Within (Luke Tracey Newmann)
Wednesday, September 20th @ 7:30
- Frank Slide
- Rooster Davis (David Aide) & Dave Babcock
- Rott’n Dan & Lightnin' Child (Dan Shinnan &Will Ryan
Both competitions held at Newcastle Pub & Grill, #145, 8170-50 Street, Edmonton, T6B 1E6
Please come out and show your support to our talented local blues musicians. The winners of this category will advance to finals on October 15th held at the Old Timers Cabin (Log Cabin) We'll announce the winners of the Solo/Duo competition after the qualifying rounds. The band competition will be Tuesday, Sept 26th. Check back for more information.
Tickets $10 - available at the door
Join us for great good and amazing Blues at the Newcastle Pub & Grill at #145, 8170-50 St., Edmonton, T6B 1E6
A huge thank you to Newcastle for generously supporting live music and hosting the EBS Memphis Bound Blues Challenge and to our friends at CJSR and CKUA for promoting and keeping the blues alive
MEMPHIS BOUND BLUES CHALLENGE CONTESTANTS ANNOUNCED:
- Glenn Gray - (Solo)
- Hopus Hand (Ben Sures & Grant Stovel) (Duo)
- Rooster Davis (David Aide) & Dave Babcock (Duo)
- The James Band (Band)
- Joe Nolan (Solo)
- Frank Slide (Blair Brodie) (Solo)
- Rebecca Lappa and the Revelry (Band)
- Slim Dunx (Ross van Eldik) (Solo)
- Dylan Farrel Band (Band)
- Nick Samoil (Solo)
- Rott'n Dan and Lightnin' Child (Dan Shinnan & Will Ryan) (Duo)
- The Poet Within (Luke Tracey Newmann) (Sol)
- James Band
The "solo/duo" qualifying rounds begin on Tuesday, September 19th @ 7:00 and continues on Wednesday, September 20th @7:00. Competition is being held at the Newcastlew Pub & Grill. Tickets at the door $10. No advance ticket sales.
The Band qualifying round will be held on Tuesday, September 26th starting @ 7:00 pm at the Newcastle Pub & Grill. Tickets at the door $10. No advance ticket sales.
Thank you for supporting live music, especially Blues!
Thank you to the great staff at the Newcastle Pub & Grill for hosting our competition. Come out and enjoy some delicious food, a pint of your favourite beverage while listening to some fabulous blues! What can be better?
2017 Memphis Bound Blues Challenge
CALL TO ENTER OPENS AUGUST 16, 2017
ENTRY DEADLINE SEPTEMBER 6, 2017 @ 8:00 PM SHARP
Calling all Blues Musicians
Entries for Solo/Duo and Band performance categories;
Best Self-Produced CD - Blues CDs released by Northern Alberta blues artists released November 1, 2016 to September 7, 2017 and recorded on an independent label are eligible.
* Direct any questions to Doug @ 780-780-232-1122 or Lonnie @ 780-964-7787 *
or email us at : info@EdmontonBluesSociety
EBS follows the same rules and scoring as the Blues Foundation. Read rules and scoring details @ https://blues.org/international-blues-challenge
Edmonton Competition Dates ***
- Sept 19 & 20 7pm showtime - Solo/Duo Qualifying Rounds at Newcastle Pub - Contestants to be announced
- Sept 26 7pm showtime - Band Qualifying Rounds at New Castle Pub - Contestants to be announced
- Oct 15 Solo/Duo & Band Finals @ Old Timers Cabin starting @ Noon
- Top scoring acts from each qualifying round advance to the Finals on Oct 15th
- All dates will be confirmed once entries have closed.
Oct 15 - Final Rounds, very early afternoon start. Doors open at NOON. Winners advance to 34th International Blues Challenge in Memphis, TN representing Northern Alberta and the Edmonton Blues Society.
34th International Blues Challenge in Memphis TN
January 16 - 20, 2018
Musicians representing Northern Alberta and Edmonton Blues Society are asked to arrive in Memphis on or before January 15, 2018. The IBC ends late evening January 20 2018. Please plan accordingly.
* EBS will hold a fundraiser November 4th with proceeds reducing travel costs for this year's winners.
**All acts entering understand EBS partial covers their expenses and that the acts are responsible for their travel, hotel rooms and other expenses exceeding EBS financial assistance while in Memphis.
***In the event that there is insufficient number of entries, EBS reserves the right to modify any schedule or cancel the MBBC entirely.
Edmonton dates subject to change based upon enrolment.
Thank you to our sponsor, Long & McQuade,. Thank you for continued support from our friends at CKUA and CJSR.
Special thank you to Newcastle Pub & Grill for hosting us at their fabulous venue.
The 33rd International Blues Challenge was held
January 31 - February 4, 2017
on historical Beale Street in Memphis TN
Representing Northern Alberta and the Edmonton Blues Society:
Soloist - Jenie Thai
Band - Boogie Patrol
Best Self-Produced CD advancing to the international level:
Sugar Cube by Front Porch Roots Revue
Memphis Results
Band Category
1st Place - Dawn Tyler-Watson (Montreal Blues Society)
2nd Place - Souliz Band featuring Sugar & Spice (Suncoast Blues Society, Florida)
3rd Place - Rae Gordon & the Backseat Drivers (Cascade Blues Society, Oregon)
Solo/Duo Category
1st Place - Al Hill (Nashville Blues Society)
2nd Place - Brody Buster's One-Man Band (Kanas City Blues Society)
Best Instrumentalists
Guitar, Band Category
Ben Racine (Montreal Blues Society)
Guitar, Solo/Duo
Al Hill (Nashville Blues Society)
Harmonica
Brody Buster
Best Self-Produced CD
JW Jones, High Temperature (Ottawa Blues Society)
2016 Memphis Bound Blues Challenge
What a final showdown!
Congratulations to our new Northern Alberta champions
Jenie Thai (solo) and Boogie Patrol (band)
who will represent us at 33rd International Blues Challenge in Memphis TN late January 2017!
Best Self-Produced CD, Sugar Cube by Front Porch Roots Revue is advancing to the international level.
Solo-Duo acts advancing to regional Finals on October 2, 2016 and moving one step closer to Memphis are:
Glenn Gray, Jenie Thai, Kevin John Cook, Bleached Rag.
Edmonton dates
Sept 20 7pm showtime - Solo/Duo Qualifying Rounds at Newcastle Pub Jerry Brown, Glenn Gray, Old DogX, Bleached Rag, Jenie Thai, Kevin John Cook.
Sept 27 7pm showtime - Band Qualifying Rounds at Shaker's Roadhouse. Dylan Farrell Band, Blues Puppy Trio, Van Funk, Boogie Patrol.
Top scoring acts from each qualifying rounds date advance to the Finals on Oct 2
Dates will be confirmed once entries have closed.
Oct 2 - Final Rounds, very early afternoon start. Doors open at NOON. Winners advance to 33rd International Blues Challenge in Memphis TN representing Northern Alberta and the Edmonton Blues Society.
* EBS will hold a fundraiser November 19 with proceeds reducing travel costs for this year's winners.
* All acts entering understand EBS partial covers their expenses and that the acts are responsible for their travel, hotel rooms and other expenses exceeding EBS financial assistance while in Memphis.
* In the event that there is insufficient number of entries, EBS reserves the right to modify any schedule or cancel the MBBC entirely.
Edmonton dates subject to change based upon enrolment.
EBS uses the same scoring system and criteria as Memphis. Read more here
Thank-you to our partners CKUA 94.9, CJSR 88.5, CRUZ 95.7, Edmonton Journal, Global TV News and Waterloo Ford. Your support is greatly appreciated!
8:00pm Entry DEADLINE
Sept 7, 2016
Calling all blues artists!
Entries for Solo/Duo and Band performance categories;
Best Self-Produced CD - Blues CDs released by Northern Alberta blues artists released November 1, 2015 to September 7, 2016 and recorded on an independent label are legible.
Direct any questions to 780-717-7604 or info@EdmontonBluesSociety.net
EBS follows the same rules and scoring as the Blues Foundation. Read rules and scoring details here
33rd International Blues Challenge in Memphis TN
January 31, 2017 - February 4, 2017
Musicians representing Northern Alberta and Edmonton Blues Society are asked to arrive in Memphis on or before January 30, 2017. The IBC ends late evening February 4, 2017. Please plan accordingly.
5th Memphis Bound Blues Challenge (MBBC)
The results are in and the competition WAS fierce!
KUDOS to all the contestants, Youth Showcase acts, audience, volunteers, sound man, judges and sponsors for the part you played in making this year's Memphis Bound Blues Challenge the most exciting one to date! The musical performances were stellar! The competition fierce and the results were hair-splitting close.
Advancing to 32nd International Blues Challenge in Memphis TN are
Best Self Produced CD - "For Saints & Sinners" by Rooster Davis Group
Solo/Duo - Graham Guest
Band - Rooster Davis Group
October 18 - Final and deciding rounds
Old Timers Cabin 9430 Scona Road
Doors - high Noon
Show - 1:00pm
Lemon Grass Grill Food Truck onsite
Schedule
1:00pm - Youth Showcase: King Size Players
Ben Todd & Rob Taylor (Duo)
Strathcona County Conspiracy (Band)
Charlie Jacobson (Solo)
Rooster Davis Group (Band)
Graham Guest (Solo)
Boogaloo (Band)
Best Self Produced CD winner announced
Announcement of who is advancing to Memphis!
Tracks from CDs entered will be played during the changeovers and available for purchase.
Door proceeds help our acts get to Memphis.
Thank-you to our volunteer adjudicators and Emcees for both Qualifying Rounds
Ron Rault, Kennedy Jenson, Stewart MacDougall, Rhea March, Cam Hayden, Alan Kellogg, Steve Boddington and Chris Martin.
Band Qualifiers results from September 29
Advancing to October 18 Final Rounds, in alpha-order are:
Boogaloo
Rooster Davis Group
Strathcona County Conspiracy
Thank-you our host venue, Big Al's House of Blues, sound tech Kenny Skoreyko and Team EBS for a job well done on Sept 29. We greatly appreciate it!
Solo/Duo acts advancing to October 18 Finals
Ben Todd & Rob Taylor (duo)
Charlie Jacobson
Graham Guest
Kudos to ALL the Solo/Duos and Bands who delivered great performances and a wide variety of blues styles. Well done by everyone!
Next: Final Rounds, Solo/Duos and Bands, Sunday October 18 at Old Timers Cabin. Doors at Noon, Competition at 1:00pm. Arrive early!
Entries OPEN for Best Self-Produced Blues CD: for independently recorded/produced Blues CDs released Nov 1, 2014 - Oct 1, 2015.
Open to blues acts residing in Northern Alberta (Red Deer to NWT border)
More details at info@EdmontonBluesSociety.net
Contestants in 2015 MBBC are
Solo/Duo category - Glenn Gray, Rev K, Boyd Davies & KPOD, Charlie Jacobson, Graham Guest, Ben Todd & Rob Taylor.
Band category - Rooster Davis Group, Tony Kaye Trio, Great North Blues Band, Strathcona County Conspiracy, Boogaloo, Blues Puppy Trio
2015 Qualifying Rounds
Sept 22 - Solo/Duo at Newcastle Pub
8170-50 Street NW Edmonton
Doors 6:00pm
Competition 7:00pm
$10 cover - playing order listed above
Sept 29 - Bands at Big Al's House of Blues
15004 Yellowhead Trail, Edmonton
Doors 6:00pm
Competition 7:00pm
$10 cover - playing order listed above
Top 3 scoring acts from each date advances to the Finals.
Oct 18 - Finals both categories
Old Timer's Cabin 9430 Scona Rd
Doors at Noon
Competition 1:00pm
All proceeds help defray musicians travel costs to Memphis.
Winning Solo/Duo and Band advance to the 32nd International Blues Challenge held in downtown Memphis, Tennessee in Beale Street Historic District and must be able to travel freely to USA January 26 - 30, 2016
More details at info@EdmontonBluesSociety.net
EBS uses the same criteria and scoring system as Memphis. Details here
Follow the excitement from Beale Street at the
31st International Blues Challenge in Memphis TN January 20 - 24, 2015
All the best to
Two Blue and Dylan Farrell Band
Do us proud!
UPDATE Jan 23, 2105
Semi Finals are tonight on Beale Street.
Two Blue has advanced to the Semis!
Congratulations to the 8 Canadians in total, 5 Solo/Duos and 3 Bands!
Solo/Duos - Two Blue, John Campbelljohn, Vaudevillian, Tim Williams, Dalannah & Owen
Bands - Bill Stevenson Nine Steps, Michael Schatte, Rae Gordon
Complete Semi Final schedule for Jan 23, 2015 here
Advancing to the 31st International Blues Challenge in Memphis TN:
- Two Blue (Robert Walsh & Karimah), Solo/Duo category
- Dylan Farrell Band, Band category
- Street Corner History by Dan Sinasac, BSPCD
Congratulations to all the Finalists and Youth Showcase acts for a great day of blues music!
Huge "Thank-you" to all the volunteers, adjudicators, Emcee, sound tech and audience for making this event successful.
Help us defray travel costs for our 2014 Champs!
November 15 - MBBC Fundraiser
Double-bill with 2013 MBBC Champs
Boogie Patrol and Jenie Thai
Old Timer's Cabin 9430 Scona Road, Edmonton
Doors - 7:30pm Music - 8:00pm
$20 at the door
All ages.
Arrive early for best seats!
Band AND Solo/Duo Finals
Sunday October 19 at Old Timer's Cabin
Cover $15 2 Bands & 4 Solo/Duos
ALL AGES. Special prices for minors.
Doors open at Noon
Arrive early for best seats.
Smokehouse BBQ food truck on-site
Playing order for October 19
Youth Showcase
Bucket (Sherwood Park)
Static Shift, (Calgary) and winners 2014 Youth Competition, Beaumont Roots & Blues Festival
Memphis Bound Finalists
Andrew Scott & Celeigh Cardinal
Blind Dog Blues Band
Graham Guest
Charlie Jacobson
Dylan Farrell Band
Two Blue
Thank-you to ALL the musicians who provided a day of varied and great blues on September 28 at Big Al's House of Blues:
Marv Gemmell, Glenn Gray & the Blues Cowboys, Andrew Scott & Celeigh Cardinal, Kevin Kulchitsky, Old Jack Tap, Charlie Jacobson, Two Blue, Blind Dog Blues Band, Graham Guest, Dylan Farrell Band.
Solo/Duo Quarter Finals #2 done.
Advancing to the next level on Sept 28 at Big Al's are:
- Marv Gemmell
- Charlie Jacobson
- Kevin Kulchitsky
- Andrew Scott & Celeigh Cardinal
- Graham Guest
- Two Blue (Robert Walsh & Karimah)
Best Self-Produced CD entrants
Blue Moon Marquee - Lonesome Ghosts
Dan Sinasac - Street Corner History
Dr Blu - Dirty Lens
Rita McDade - Train Home
Van Funk - 13
Video about EBS and Memphis Bound Blues Challenge
Edmonton and Area Blues Artists performing in Memphis! Enjoy!
Videos from Memphis
at Blues City Cafe January 23, 2014
at Silky O'Sullivans on January 22, 2014
A taste of what's to come at the Finals Oct 2014
Video about EBS and Memphis Bound Blues Challenge
2014 Semi Finals: a taste of what to hear!
September 28 Semi Finals
Venue changed to: Big Al's House of Blues
4th Memphis Bound Blues Challenge
Entries now CLOSED.
4 Bands and 11 Solo/duo acts have entered this year.
Thank-you to every musician who entered!
One act per category will be representing Northern Alberta at 31st International Blues Challenge!
Solo/Duo Quarter Finals
September 14 and September 21 at Big Al's House of Blues
2 page playing order here All times are approximate. Hear all the acts, arrive early!
Contestants, in alpha order by category, are:
Bands
Blind Dog Blues Band, Dylan Farrell Band, Glenn Gray & the Blues Cowboys, Old Jack Tap
Solo/Duos
80's Dad & the Light'ning Child, Andrew Scott/Celeigh Cardinal, Breezy Brian Gregg, Charlie Jacobson, Graham Guest, Kevin Kulchitsky, Marv Gemmell, Shiv Shanks, Son of Trouble (Ben Sures), Two Blue, Van Funk
Still open: Submissions for BSPCD
Best Self-Produced Blues CD information
Only Cds released November 1, 2013 - October 15, 2014 may be submitted.
Deadline for this category is 8:00pm sharp October 15, 2014.
2014 MBBC dates
August 14 - Entries accepted for 4th Annual Memphis Bound Blues Challenge
September 3 - 8:00pm SHARP! DEADLINE to enter this year's blues challenge
September 14 - Qualifying Rounds Solo/Duo, Big Al's House of Blues
September 21 - Qualifying Rounds Solo/Duo, Big Al's House of Blues
September 28 - Semi Finals, Solo/Duo category; Qualifiers, Bands, Blues on Whyte
October 19 - Final Rounds, both categories, Old Timer's Cabin - ALL ages
EBS uses same criteria, scoring system and guidelines as the International Blues Challenge in Memphis. Info here
2013 Memphis Bound Blues Challenge
Congratulations to the 30th International Blues Challenge Winners!
Two Canadians receive 3 awards in Memphis!
Memphis, TN (January 25, 2014) - The 30th International Blues Challenge (IBC)--the world's largest gathering of blues acts—concluded its five-day run on world famous Beale Street in downtown Memphis with a full day of performances before a full house at the Orpheum Theatre. Narrowed from a record 255 acts from 40 states and 16 countries (and four continents), the 8 solo/ duo and 9 band finalists vied for the top prizes before an esteemed panel of judge . Here are the results:
Band
1st Place: Mr. Sipp - Vicksburg Blues Society
2nd Place: Ghost Town Blues Band - Memphis Blues Society
3rd Place: Billy the Kid & Regulators - Blues Society of Western Pennsylvania
Gibson Guitarist (top guitarist among band finalists): Mr. Sipp Vicksburg Blues Society
Solo/Duo
1st Place: Tim Williams - Calgary Blues Music Association
2nd Place: Lucious Spiller - Ozark Blues Society of Northwest Arkansas Inc.
St. Blues Guitarist (top guitarist among solo/duo finalists): Tim Williams - Calgary Blues Music Association
Lee Oskar Harmonica Player (top harmonica player among semi-finalists): Jerome Godboo (Toronto Blues Society)
Best Self-Produced CD: Account to Me - Hank Mowery (West Michigan Blues Society)
CKUA Blog about 30th IBC
Edmonton Blues Society sends a huge "Thank-you" to ALL Memphis Bound entrants, judges, volunteers, venues, sponsors and blues fans.
Congratulations to everyone who entered and all our representatives!
January 24, 2014
Advancing to the Semi Final Rounds in Memphis TN are
Jenie Thai - Solo/Duo
Boogie Patrol - Band
Stay informed of results here, EBS Facebook page, the Blues Foundation and MusicOnTheCouch
January 18, 2014 view the Global TV Interview
January 18 - 8:00pm Newcastle Pub 8170 - 50 Street Edmonton
Memphis Send Off for Boogie Patrol and Jenie Thai
Their final performance and fundraiser before competing at International Blues Challenge in Memphis starting January 21, 2014. Come out and wish them the best!
Going to Memphis in January 2014 are:
Solo - Jenie Thai
Band - Boogie Patrol
Best Self Produced CD - Baptized by the Mud by Kat Danser advanced in Memphis to Round #2
It was a tight race and the adjudicators had their work cut out for them.
We sincerely thank them for donating their time and expertise.
HUGE thank-you to all the volunteers, adjudicators, sponsors, sound techs, fans,
showcase songwriters and especially all the contestants for a fabulous series of
good blues!
Fall 2013 Dates and venues
October 27 - Finals, both categories, at Old TImer's Cabin 9430 Scona Road
All ages. Cover charge at the door $15/person; $5/child
Doors at 1:00pm; Music at 2:00pm
First come, first get in so arrive early.
Announcements, award presentations and pictures 6:50-7:00pm
Top scoring act from each category will be "Memphis Bound"
Best Self Produced Blues CD announced around 4:30pm
Nominees are:
Ben Sures Son of Trouble; Marshall Lawrence House Call; Natalie B Slipping Away;
Kat Danser Baptized by the Mud; Blind Dog Blues Band Burnin' for You;
Shiv Shanks Bumblebee Straightjacket; Blues Curry Wake Me Up
Winning CD will advance to the International level in Memphis TN.
Approximate playing time for Solo/Duo and Band acts. Times subject to change
2:00pm Youth Showcase
2:30pm Shiv Shanks
3:10pm M64
3:50pm Charlie Jacobson
4:30pm Best Self Produced CD announced
5:00pm Boogie Patrol
5:40pm Graham Guest & the Executives
6:20pm Jenie Thai
6:50-7:00pm Announcements, award presentations and pictures
October 20 - Semi Finals (Bands AND Solo/Duos) at Blues on Whyte
Doors at Noon, Competition 1:00pm
Approximate playing time listed. Times subject to change.
1:00pm Ashley Barlow
1:30pm Overdue Blues Band
4:20pm Jenie Thai
4:50pm Graham Guest & the Executives
5:20pm Charlie Jacobson
5:50pm Boogie Patrol
6:20-6:30pm Announcements & closing remarks
2013 Contestants: All contestants from Edmonton unless otherwise noted.
Listed in playing order for the First Rounds.
Edmonton Blues Society sends their "Thank-you" to ALL contestants!
Best Self Produced CD
Submissions now closed.
Winner will be announced October 27 at Old TImer's Cabin
during Memphis Bound Blues Challenge Finals.
Thank-you to everyone who entered!
Solo/Duo category - September 29 Doors at Noon, Competition 1:00pm
Leigh Friesen
Jenie Thai
Charlie Jacobson, from Red Deer
Sean Stephens
Ashley Barlow
Shiv Shanks, from Red Deer
Breezy Brian & Moses Gregg
Music Worx, from Rocky Mountain House
Band Category - October 6 Doors at Noon, Competition 1:00pm
Approximate playing time listed. Times subject to change.
1:00pm M-64
1:40pm Boogie Patrol
2:15pm Downbeat Daddy
2:50pm Ocean Blue Trio
3:45pm The Overdue Blues Band, from Red Deer
4:20pm Graham Guest & The Executives
4:55pm Banging Out Blue, from Consort, Spruce Grove and Edmonton
5:30pm Barren Blues Band
Watch for more information or contact info@EdmontonBluesSociety.net
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Representing EBS and Northern Alberta at
29th International Blues Challenge in Memphis TN in early 2013:
Band category - Boogie Patrol
Solo/Duo category - Graham Guest - Advanced to Semi Finals held on February 1, 2013 and to Finals February 2, 2013
Boogie Patrol and Graham Guest - you are our stars.
Thank-you for representing us. We are proud of you!
Feb 2, 2013
Advancing to the Finals in Memphis
Graham Guest, Solo/Duo category
Complete Finalist list at www.blues.org
Total number of competitors in Memphis: 80 Solo/Duo; 123 Band
Suzie Vinnick (Toronto Blues Society)
is also advancing to the Solo/Duo Finals
No Canadian bands made it out of the Semi Finals.
Congratulations to ALL Canadian blues acts who competed in Memphis.
You did us proud!
October 2012
All 6 final acts did fabulous performances to a packed house.
Northern Alberta blues fans are proud of you and thank-you for the excellent shows!
We are proud of every musician who entered this year!
Great audiences, great blues acts, great volunteers, esteemed judges, great emcees....makes for a vibrant and exciting blues community.
Kudos to everyone!
October 2012 competition stats
51 competing musicians in 17 acts representing Northern Alberta played 31 competition
performances over 6 dates in 5 venues before 20 judges, 5 Emcees and 5 sound techs
to a total of over 620 blues fans with 30 volunteers filling over 110 volunteer positions.
Wow!
Finals schedule for October 21, competition starts 1:00pm
Solo-Duo category:
Breezy Brian Gregg, Jenie Thai, Graham Guest
Sunday October 21, 2012
Old Timer's Cabin 9430 Scona Road (99 Street)
$15 All ages event. EBS Members and Guests invited to attend
doors 12:30pm (half past Noon), competition starts 1:00pm
We use the exact same scoring system used by Memphis for
the International Blues Challenge that has been running for almost 30 years.
Scoring system explained here
9 Solo/Duo entries and 8 Band entries were received this year!
We will be having Quarter Finals (4 dates in total), Semi Finals and Final rounds throughout October 2012.
Tickets for Oct 21 Final Rounds only. Get yours early!
Available at: Tix on the Square, Myhre's Music, Permanent Records.
All other dates, pay at the door.
Quarter Finals - Solo/Duo category
October 3 - The Haven Club 15120 Stony Plain Road
doors 6:30pm, competition 7:00pm $5 at the door
"Little Joe" Experience - Youth Showcase
TJ Winter
Jenie Thai
Hannah & Hannah
Breezy Brian Gregg
October 4 - Uncle Glenn's Eatery 7666 - 156 Street
doors 6:30pm, competition 7:00pm $5 at the door
Van Funk
Glenn Gray
Geri Harris
Boyd & KPOD
Graham Guest
Quarter Finals - Band category
October 10 - Newcastle Pub 6108 - 90 Avenue
doors 6:30pm, competition 7:30pm $5 at the door
Long Shadows
The Wiremen
Big Hank & A Fist Full of Blues
Jimmy and the Sleepers
October 11 - Newcastle Pub 6108 - 90 Avenue
doors 6:30pm, competiton 7:30pm $5 at the door
Overdue Blues Band
Brendan Kelly
Great North Blues Band
Boogie Patrol
Semi Final rounds, both Solo/Duo and Band categories
October 14 - Blues on Whyte. competition 1:00pm start, $10 at the door
Advancing to the Semi Finals:
Jenie Thai, Breezy Brian Gregg, Graham Guest, Boyd & KPOD
Boogie Patrol, Big Hank & A Fist Full of Blues, Overdue Blues Band, Jimmy & the Sleepers
Final Rounds, both Solo/Duo and Band categories
October 21 - Old Timer's Cabin 9430 Scona Road
doors 12:30pm, competition 1:00pm $15 advance tickets
Tickets at: Tix on the Square, Permanent Records, Myhre's Music
Advancing to the Final Rounds:
Jenie Thai, Breezy Brian Gregg, Graham Guest
Jimmy & the Sleepeers, Overdue Blues Band, Boogie Patrol,
The 29th International Blues Challenge in Memphis, TN is set for January 29, 2012 to February 2, 2013. www.blues.org
We will be holding our 2nd Annual "Memphis Bound" Blues challenge in OCTOBER 2012 to find our regional representatives.
Competition dates, venues and schedules listed above. Tickets available soon!
Final Rounds are Sunday afternoon October 21, 2012 at Old Timers Cabin, 9430 Scona Road, Edmonton, AB.
Acts winning the Final Rounds WILL represent EBS in Memphis, TN. It could be YOU!
Categories
Solo/Duo - one or two members
Band - three or more members
Vocalists count as a musician.
Breezy Brian Gregg thanks everyone who accepted his challenge!
Breezy Bri Challenge
Breezy Brian Gregg has put out a "challenge" to ALL blues Solo/Duo acts
in Northern Alberta (Red Deer north)
"I am going to enter again and try and win here again.
I am quite sure if I do win here I will again not win in Memphis.
I challenge everyone and anyone to enter and try and beat me."
2011/12 Memphis Bound representatives
Solo/Duo - Breezy Brian Gregg
Band - Jimmy and the Sleepers
Fundraising event: September 22, 2012 at Old Timers Cabin, 9430 Scona Road (99 Street)
We are looking for silent auction items.
Please contact info@EdmontonBluesSociety.net to help with this.
Final rounds will be held Sunday October 21, 2012 at Old Timers Cabin 9430 Scona Road (99 Street)
We SOLD OUT for the final rounds held November 2011 so get your tickets as soon as they go on sale!
Thank-you for supporting Edmonton Blues Society and helping to keep blues alive in Edmonton!
* Grant Stovel's Memphis blog on CKUA
The WIRED! Band (Washington Blues Society)
The winner of the Solo/Duo category is:
Ray Bonneville (Ozark Blues Society of Northwest Arkansas)
Band-3rd Place: Paula Harris (The Golden Gate Blues Society)
The Gibson Guitarist Award went to Bart Walker and
The Lee Oskar Top Harmonica Player Award went to Randy McQuay
Memphis Bound !!!
Representing Edmonton and the Edmonton Blues Society
at the 28th International Blues Challenge
held Jan 31 - Feb 4, 2012 in Memphis, TN are:
Breezy Brian Gregg in the Solo/Duo category
Jimmy & the Sleepers in the Band category
Congratulations from the board of the Edmonton Blues Society!
Advancing to the inaugural "Memphis Bound" Finals
on Sunday November 13, 2011 at 1:30pm are...
Solo/Duo category
Breezy Brian Gregg
Dan Sinasac
Band category
Boogie Patrol
Jimmy & the Sleepers
Blues fans, mark this date on your calendars!
Final Rounds held as follows:
November 13, 2011 doors open at 1:30pm
The Yardbird Suite
11 Tommy Banks Way (102 Street & 86 Ave), Edmonton, AB - open to the public and all ages welcome!
Tickets $10 each available NOW at
Tix on the Square, Sound Connection, Myhre's Music, Fusion Music and info@EdmontonBluesSociety.net
The top scoring Solo/Duo act and top scoring Band act from November 13, 2011 final rounds will represent Edmonton and the Edmonton Blues Society in the 28th International Blues Challenge held in Memphis, Tennessee January 31 – February 4, 2012 in their respective categories.
Proceeds from Memphis Bound events will be used to defray travel expenses for the acts representing EBS in Memphis. The Edmonton Blues Society will provide sponsorship of $1000 per musician, to a maximum of $5000 in the band category. This sponsorship is to offset travel expenses to Memphis in February 2012.
Come out and support the musicians who have entered the inaugural year for EBS' Memphis Bound blues challenge.
Memphis Bound Updates:
"Due to scheduling conflicts, we regretfully have to withdraw from this year's Memphis Bound blues challenge. We wish all solo/duos and bands the best of luck with the November 2011 competition!" ......Big Hank and the Boys
"Due to unpreventable circumstances, I will be competing in all rounds of this year's Solo/Duo category as a Solo artist. My partner wishes all entrants the very best of luck and is planning on competing next year!" ......Dan Sinasac
Edmonton Blues Society would like to thank all the great local blues musicians who particpated in the qualifying rounds!
Edmonton's Memphis Bound Blues Challenge date at The Yardbird Suite:
- Final rounds on Sunday, November 13, 2011 1:30pm.
Please address any questions concerning Memphis Bound Blues Challenge to: info@edmontonbluessociety.net
Rosalynn 780-717-7604
