Dear Blues Family,
The countdown begins.
On behalf of The Blues Foundation, we are excited to officially announce the dates for the 43rd International Blues Challenge taking place January 19–23, 2027, in the heart of Memphis, Tennessee.
Each year, musicians, fans, industry professionals, blues societies, and supporters from around the world gather on Beale Street to celebrate the power, passion, and future of blues music. The International Blues Challenge continues to serve as one of the most important platforms for emerging blues artists while honoring the rich culture and legacy of this uniquely American art form.
We are looking forward to another unforgettable week filled with outstanding performances, networking, education, fellowship, and the global spirit of the blues.
Whether you are competing, supporting an artist, representing an affiliated blues society, or simply joining us as a fan of the music, we invite you to begin making plans now to join us in Memphis.
Additional details regarding host hotels, event schedules, ticket information, showcases, and registration timelines will be announced in the coming months.
Thank you for your continued support of the blues and of The Blues Foundation.
We cannot wait to welcome the blues world back to Beale Street in January 2027.
A Blues Hall of Fame moment with a true Louisiana legend!
We were honored to welcome 2026 Blues Hall of Fame inductee Kenny Neal to the Blues Hall of Fame. From his soulful guitar work to his powerful vocals and deep blues roots, Neal’s impact on the genre continues to inspire fans and musicians around the world.
Thank you, Kenny, for stopping by and helping us celebrate the blues in a big way!
We were thrilled to welcome 2026 Blues Hall of Fame inductee Marcia Ball to the Blues Hall of Fame. Known for her signature blend of blues, boogie-woogie, R&B, and Gulf Coast soul, Ball has brought joy, energy, and unforgettable music to audiences for decades.
Congratulations, Marcia, and thank you for visiting the Blues Hall of Fame!
Thank you blues family for showing up, showing love, and helping us celebrate the rich history, culture, and legacy of the blues at the 47th Annual Blues Music Awards.
Your support, energy, and passion made this week in Memphis truly special. From the Blues Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony to an incredible night at the Blues Music Awards, we were honored to celebrate the artists, musicians, industry leaders, and fans who continue to keep this music alive around the world.
Congratulations to all of the winners and nominees. Your talent, dedication, and contributions to the blues genre are appreciated and celebrated.
Thank you to our Board of Directors, staff, volunteers, sponsors, partners, and everyone who helped make these events a success. We are grateful for each of you and look forward to continuing to preserve and advance the blues together.
Safe travels home, and thank you again for being part of the Blues Foundation family.
Kimberly Horton
President & CEO
Stop by for free health screenings and custom made ear plugs on Thursday, May 7 from 10-11:30 AM offered by the Blues Foundation’s HART Fund. Keeping the blues alive and well and supporting musician’s health.
Dear Blues Family,
As we prepare to gather once again in Memphis, I want to personally welcome each of you to what promises to be a powerful and memorable week celebrating the music that connects us all.
We are honored to present both the Blues Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and the Blues Music Awards at the beautiful Cannon Center for the Performing Arts. This year, both events will take place in the same venue, creating a seamless and elevated experience for our community.
The Blues Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will be held on May 6, and the Blues Music Awards will take place on May 7. Doors will open at 5:00 PM for both events, with programs beginning promptly at 6:00 PM.
To read the full message from the President & CEO, Kimberly Horton, check out our newsletter at /2024-welcome-to-memphis-3647466
Get ready for an unforgettable night of blues in Memphis!
Carolyn Wonderland will deliver a special tribute to 2026 Hall of Fame Inductee and BMA Nominee Marcia Ball during the 2026 Blues Music Awards on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at 6 p.m. at the Cannon Center for the Performing Arts in Memphis, TN.
This is a celebration you do not want to miss.
Tickets are still available now at blues.org.
