Blues Foundation Hosts 23rd International Blues Challenge
The World's Largest Gathering of Blues Bands

February 1-3, 2007
Memphis, TN
USA

/24-7PressRelease/ - MEMPHIS, TN, January 10, 2007 - 157 blues acts from around the world compete for cash, prizes, and industry recognition. The Blues Foundation will host the 23rd International Blues Challenge February 1-3, 2007 in Memphis, TN. 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. Preliminary round of competition features acts performing in clubs up and down Beale Street.

In 2006, 7,500 people attended the event, with competitors representing 33 states and 7 countries. Where else can you hear blues from Israel to Illinois?

Media Sponsors include XM Satellite Radio, House of Blues Radio Hour, Big City Rhythm and Blues, Blues Festival Guide, Blues Revue, BluesWax, Downtowner magazine and Living Blues.

The 23rd International Blues Challenge is sponsored by bandvillage, Blues Revue, Budweiser, Fed Ex, Legendary Rhythm & Blues Cruise, Memphis Convention and Visitors Bureau, sonicbids and XM Satellite Radio.

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

Location:
Semifinals: Thursday, Friday February 1-2: Beale Street club venues

Finals: Saturday, February 3

2:00-7:00pm Band Finals at Orpheum Theater (203 South Main Street), winner announced following competition

8:30pm Solo/Duo Finals New Daisy Theater (330 Beale Street), winner announced following competition

For more information and to purchase advance tickets, visit www.blues.org or call 901.527.2583.

Contact Information
Jay Sieleman, Executive Director
The Blues Foundation
901-527-2583 x 308
Email: jay@blues.org

Press Release Contact Information:

Jay Sieleman
Blues Foundation
Executive Director
49 Union Ave
Memphis, TN
USA 38103
Voice: 901-527-2583
Website: Visit Our Website