Blues Challenge at Cain's Ballroom

Nine bands will compete September 5th at the historic Cain’s Ballroom for the right to represent Tulsa and Northeastern Oklahoma at the International Blues Challenge next January in Memphis, TN.

The Blues Society of Tulsa will hold its 12th Annual Blues Challenge at Cain’s, 423 N. Main, with the doors opening at 4:30 p.m. and the first act taking the stage at 5:30 p.m. Each act will perform 20 minutes, with a 15 minute break between sets.

This year’s show promises to be one of the most exciting and competitive yet,“ said Bill Martin, Blues Society president. “We have a mixture of six acts competing for the first time, with three others making repeat performances.

The winner will be named following the last act, based on scoring of five qualified judges for the event.

Kicking off the show will be a first time appearance by Bethany Grace & Gypsy Soul, a five-piece band from Claremore. Other first time entries will be The Dirtboxwailers (Owasso), The Vox Squadron (Tahlequah), Calvin Youngblood & Cold Front (Tulsa), the Chris Garrett Band (Cleveland), and a nine-piece ensemble, The Patti Taylor Band (Tulsa).

Acts which have competed in at least one previous challenge are Darell Christopher and the Ingredients (Broken Arrow, who placed 2nd last year), Sunday Moan (Claremore), and Black Kat Benders (Tulsa).

In order for a band to compete in the International Blues Challenge they must be sponsored by an affiliate of the international organization, The Blues Foundation.

There is a $7 cover, with kids 12 and under getting in free to the all ages event.

Once again there will be loads of great prizes in the 5 tickets for $5 drawings held between acts.

The Blues Society is a 501 (c) 3 nonprofit dedicated to promoting the blues genre, local acts and live music.

For more info: Contact Bill Martin at: bluessociety@peoplepc.com