BIGLLOU’S 12TH ANNUAL BLUES HALL OF FAME TRIBUTE FUN-RAISER: “MERCY IN MEMPHIS – A SINNERS SERENADE”
MEMPHIS, TN – GoldenVoice Audio Foundation and Executive Producer BIGLLOU Johnson are proud to announce the return of the most anticipated event of Blues Music Awards week. On May 6th, the 12th Annual Blues Hall of Fame Tribute Fun-Raiser takes place.
2026 THEME
This year’s gala, themed “Mercy in Memphis – A Sinners Serenade,” will take place on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, in the heart of Memphis, Tennessee.
For over a decade, BIGLLOU’S Tribute has brought together legendary performers, industry titans, and devoted fans. All will celebrate the preservation of the Blues. The 2026 theme, “Mercy in Memphis,” draws inspiration from the gritty, soulful aesthetic of the cinematic world of Sinners, creating a hauntingly beautiful backdrop for a night of world-class music and philanthropy.
BMA NOMINEES
The evening is dedicated to honoring the 2026 class of Blues Hall of Fame inductees and current Blues Music Award nominees. Attendees can expect a “Sinners Serenade” featuring a revolving door of elite Blues talent. Artists will deliver the kind of raw, high-energy performances that have made this event a legendary staple of the Memphis music scene.
The evening will be headlined by a series of extraordinary musical moments. This year’s event features a special performance by 2026 Hall of Fame Inductee Kenny Neal & The Neal Family. They bring their legendary Louisiana sound to the Memphis stage. In a poignant tribute to another of this year’s greats, the incomparable Eden Brent will perform a special musical tribute to 2026 Inductee Marcia Ball.
Most Talent-heavy Lineup in the Event’s 12-year History
Joining the night’s festivities are a powerhouse roster of Blues Music Award nominees and fan favorites, including DK Harrell, Ori Naftaly & Tierinii Jackson (of Southern Avenue), the Angelique Francis Band, Sean Macdonald, and Kyle Roland. The celebration will also feature appearances by special guests Kat Riggins, Dawn Tyler Watson, Jim Pugh, Christopher “Kid” Anderson, Matthew Skoller, Annika Chambers and Harrell “Young Rell” Davenport, making this the most talent-heavy lineup in the event’s 12-year history.
“We wanted to do something that felt as deep and soulful as the music itself,” says BIGLLOU, the “Golden Voice” of the Blues. “Memphis is a city of saints and sinners, and this year we’re bringing them all together for a night of ‘Mercy’ and music. It’s about celebrating the legends who paved the way and making sure the foundation they built remains strong for the next generation.”
FUN RAISER
As a “Fun-Raiser,” the event plays a critical role in supporting the mission of The Blues Foundation. Throughout the night, guests will have the opportunity to participate in unique auctions featuring one-of-a-kind memorabilia, including BIGLLOU curated Legendary Swag Bags for VIPS, Signature Blue Shucky Duckies and signed guitars signed by Blues legends, including artists from the film. Proceeds directly benefit the preservation of the history of the Blues and supporting the artists who keep the genre thriving.
Coming Soon: A Chicago Celebration
The “Sinners” spirit doesn’t stop in Memphis. While the “Sanctity in the Second City” lineup remains a closely guarded secret, the event promises to be the premier kickoff for the Chicago Blues Festival. It is scheduled for Wednesday June 3, 2026. This Chicago event benefits the Blues Foundation and local youth music education through nonprofits such as the Fernando Jones Blues Camp.
About GoldenVoice Audio Foundation:
The GoldenVoice Audio Foundation (www.gvaf.org) is a non-profit organization. It is dedicated to celebrating and supporting the Blues music community. Through live events and fundraising, GVAF ensures that the legacy of the Blues continues to inspire and educate audiences worldwide.
PUBLICITY : Nitrice Johnson
Phone 310.890.9678 – email nitrice@gvaf.org
PO Box 661563
Arcadia, CA 91066-1563
