International Blues Challenge

It is only fitting that the Home of the Blues is also home to the annual International Blues Challenge. Presented by The Blues Foundation, the International Blues Challenge is the world's largest gathering of blues bands. The event began in 1984 and strives to advance the careers of up and coming blues artists by showcasing their talents and bestowing upon them awards that are recognized industry-wide.

Information for the 2009 International Blues Challenge
The Blues Foundation will host the 25th annual International Blues Challenge February 4-7, 2009. This year, more than 160 blues acts from around the world are expected to compete for cash, prizes, and industry recognition. The world's largest gathering of blues acts represents an international search by The Blues Foundation and its affiliated organizations for the Blues Band and Solo/Duo Blues Act ready to perform on a national stage, but just need that extra break. The preliminary round of competition features acts performing in clubs up and down Beale Street. In addition to performances, there will also be seminars and workshops pertaining to the blues.

Some of the blues artists whose careers were launched at the IBC over the years include: Susan Tedeschi, Michelle Wilson, Michael Burks, Tommy Castro, Albert Cummings, Larry Garner, Richard Johnston, Zac Harmon and Matthew Skoller.

Tickets:
Ticket packages for the event start at $75.

Schedule of Events:
Meet and Greet Reception: February 4th, 5:00 p.m.-7:00.m. -- New Daisy Theater
Kick-off Concert: February 4th, 9:00 p.m. -- New Daisy Theater
Semifinals: February 5th and 6th, 5:00 and 6:00 p.m. -- Beale Street club venues
Awards Ceremony: February 7th, 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. -- Tennessee Ballroom
Band Finals: February 7th, 2:00 p.m. -- Orpheum Theater
Solo/Duo Finals: February 7th, 8:30 p.m. -- Orpheum Theater

For more information and to purchase advance tickets, visit www.blues.org or call (901) 527-2583.