International Blues Challenge 2019

"The seven wonders of the world I have seen, And many are the places I have been. Take my advice folks and see Beale Street first." (Louis Armstrong -

Beale Street Blues)

The Blues Foundation produces the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, Tennessee. Affiliated blues societies from across the world send their best solo/duo acts and bands to Beale Street each January. After three days of competition, the finalists face off in the Orpheum Theater. Here's some of my favorite shots from the 2019 IBC.

The finals:

Ms Hy-C & The Fresh Start - St. Louis Blues Society (winner band division)

Cros - Phoenix Blues Society

Ivy Ford Band - Crossroads Blues Society of Illinois

Steve Strongman - Grand River Blues Society (winner best solo/duo guitarist)

Teresa Malenfant and Scott Medford - East Coast Blues Society (runner up solo/duo division)

Lil Red and the Rooster - Cincy Blues Society

Misty Blue - Capital Region Blues Network

The Motion - Orange County Blues Society

Here's a few shots from the competition in the clubs on Beale earlier in the week:

Robert Kimbrough, Sr. Blues Connection - Mississippi Delta Blues Society of Indianola (King Jerry Lawler's)

James Reeser and the Backseat Drivers - Capital Area Blues Society (King Jerry Lawler's)

The International Showcase (Alfred's on Beale)

The International Showcase (King's Palace Cafe)

Mike Tripp - Spa City Blues Society (The Pig on Beale)

The Carly Harvey Band - DC Blues Society (Alfred's on Beale)

Sweet William - North Central Florida Blues Society (Peoples on Beale)

Hope to see you in Memphis next year.

Thanks for stopping by.

- Steve

all photos © 2019 Steve W. Likens