International Blues Challenge

This was the most colossal assemblage of talent I've ever seen. Something like 16 acts who all had come through their local competitions, then the Memphis competition, if they made it to the finals they had to be very seriously good. And we got to hear them all in a row one after another all day long. We absolutely loved it.

There is a reason why bands/solos/duos are in the finals for over 200 teams. They are all great and entertaining. It is nice that they allow you to come in and out since the whole part from beginning to end was over 8 hours. That is the only reason it is getting only 4 out of 5 stars!

Great bands! The show was awesome!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

16 great bands or solo/duet performances, 8 of each type. Truly amazing talent on display. Took about 6 hours total. Alcoholic beverages available.

What an amazing array of talented Blues performers!! Next year will have to allot a good 8 hours to enjoy the entire show.

The theater was a bit dark at first until they raised the lights slightly. The formal setting for this contest changed the way most people experience blues music shows. In a less formal setting, the audience would generally cheer and clap more. They would be more lively. This theater setting kept all that to a minimum. It was a completely different way to experience this kind of music performance.

Very good music from across the country and around the world by rising blues musicians. The Orpheum is an excellent venue. The audience was blues savy and very friendly.