The Blues Foundation presents the International Blues Challenge in Memphis every winter.  Bands from around the world compete for wider recognition and a coveted spot performing on the Legendary Rhythm & Blues Cruise.  2004 IBC winner Zac Harmon said that winning the competition was worth more than $100,000 in publicity.  BLUSD sends a band or solo/duo act each year, and the results thus far have been very impressive.  Nathan James and Ben Hernandez won for best solo/duo act in 2007. Aunt Kizzy’s Boys placed second in the band category in 2006.  Sue Palmer won for best self-produced CD in 2008.

BLUSD’s Regional IBCs for the 2013 Solo/Duo  IBC will be held  on 3 dates starting on October 13, 2012 at Humphrey’s Back Stage Live from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m.  Scheduled to compete are local blues artists Ben Powell, Cadillac Wreckers, Mint & Irv, and Harmonica John.

Our second preliminary round will be held on October 20, 2012 also at Humphrey’s Back Stage Live from 1:00 – 5:00 pm, and will feature local blues artists Missy & Heine Andersen, Gary Kemmer, Robin Henkel & Whitney Shay, and Phil Diiorio.

Two highest-scoring acts from each of our preliminary rounds will advance to the finals which  will take place on  November 4, 2012 at Winstons in Ocean Beach from 1:00 – 5:00 pm.

BLUSD uses the same scoring system as the Blues Foundation which is listed here.

If you have any questions about this event, just send an email to Janine Harty gro.dsulbnull@tnediserp .