(MEMPHIS, TN) – All around the
globe excitement is mounting for the respective regional blues challenge
winners as many hold sendoff concerts and fundraisers in anticipation and
preparation for their arrival in Memphis to compete in the 35th annual International Blues Challenge. Just arriving in
Memphis as a participant is an instant high. We congratulate the regional
winners of the band, solo/duo and youth divisions and wish them an unforgettable
time on this pilgrimage. The categories to win in include: Band – 1st place;
Solo/Duo – 1st place; Band – 2nd place; Solo/Duo – 2nd place; Band – 3rd place;
Band – Gibson Guitar Award; Solo/Duo – Cigar Box Guitar Award; Lee Oskar
Harmonica Award; and Best Self-Produced CD.
Not only will the streets be teaming with artists and fans but there
will be many other events and workshops held in conjunction. Along with the IBC
cutting contests and showcases held in various clubs, some of the other week’s
highlights include an invitation to a reception with leaders from the Recording
Academy™, photography exhibits, conversation and book signing with Bruce
Iglauer, founder of Alligator Records, a feature-length documentary directed
by Sam Pollard, narrated by Common, and featuring the music
of Gary Clark Jr.; Musician Workshops, 2019 IBC Keynote Panel on “The Blues and Race,” and much
more!
This is also the time the Blues Foundation presents the prestigious
Keeping The Blues Awards to this year’s recipients. A luncheon will honor and
celebrate our 2019 KBA recipients, non-performers who are being recognized for
their years of behind-the-scenes work to share, promote, and bring greater
awareness to the blues genre. The 2019 KBA Recipients are: Atlanta Blues Society,
Blues Alive Festival, Capitol Oyster Bar, Croatian Blues Forces, Hans Ekestang,
Jesse Finkelstein, Sarah French, Jean Guillermo, Tom Hyslop, Don Ottensman, and
Bob Trenchard.
IBC passes and upgrades, official 2019 IBC merchandise, and the
full event week schedule can be found at the website as well. Online ticket
sales will close Monday, January 21. They are no longer mailing tickets. Passes
purchased online will be available at Will Call.