(CAMARILLO, CA) – The 13th Annual Ventura County Blues Festival, Southern California’s longest-running yearly big blues event, returns on Saturday, April 28, to Studio Channel Islands, 2222 E. Ventura Blvd., in Camarillo. This year’s lineup features multiple, former GRAMMY nominee, vocalist Earl Thomas; harpist-vocalist extraordinaire, John Nemeth; SoCal native daughter and longtime festival favorite, Deb Ryder; past International Blues Challenge semi-finalists, Alan Wright Band; Sandy Scott & Blues to The Bone, featuring powerhouse vocalist, Sandy Scott. As per yearly tradition, the Ventura County Blues Society All-Star Jam closes out the festival, with special, unannounced guest performers.

This year’s festival is dedicated to our friend, the late musician and actor, Mickey Jones.

“The Passing of our dear brother and friend Mickey Jones will leave an empty place in our hearts. Anyone who ever had the honor to meet Mickey knows what a very special human being he was. Not just because of the incredible life he lived, but the person he was. He was always there for anyone that needed a helping hand, all you had to do is just ask. He worked as hard on charity events as he did on his long successful career as a professional musician and actor.”

Gates open 10am, music begins at 11am. Tickets $30. (Pre-Sale), $40. (Day of Show). Kids 12 and under, free with paid Adult General Admission. V.I.P. Tickets $125. (online only). Festival proceeds benefits Food Share, Safety Harbor Kids and other local charities (please bring a nonperishable food item to donate to Food Share). Donations welcome.

Festival info: (805) 501-7122 or visit the website