Regional International Blues Challenge (IBC)

The International Blues Challenge (IBC) represents the worldwide search for those blues bands and solo/duo blues performers and youth bands who are ready for the international stage, while needing only that extra big break to achieve their goals. Each affiliated chapter of The Blues Foundation has the right to send a youth band, solo/duo musician(s) and a band to represent its organization at the IBC.

For years, the Smoky Mountain Blues Society (SMBS), A Blues Foundation affiliate, has proudly sent blues bands, duos and youth bands to Memphis to compete in this classic event for years. This year we continue that fine tradition.

Participating artists will be evaluated by a panel of judges that will score performances on blues content, originality, vocals, instrumental talent, and stage presence. The Smoky Mountain Blues Society holds its regional competition this time of the year in order for the winning acts have plenty of time to raise much-needed funds and prepare for the excitement of Memphis!

We invite our members and all blues enthusiasts to come to our very own IBC to hear some great music and to cheer on the competitors. It’s a great way to thank local musicians for keeping the blues alive in East Tennessee.

We will have our regional competition at Bluetick Tavern in Maryville on Sunday, August 18th starting at 5 PM. Doors open at 4:00 PM, music starts at 5 PM. Purchase tickets at the door, no advance sales. Proceeds go towards funding the winning bands’ travel to Memphis. Tickets are $5 for SMBS members & $10 for non-members.

2024 International Blues Challengers

YOUTH
Danny Garwood
Silas Caldwell

SOLO/DUO
Blake O’Connor
Sonic 61

BANDS
Low Down Blues Band
Throwin’ Stones
Tedd Graves & The All Star Band

The winning artists in each category of Band and Solo/Duo will represent East Tennessee at the International Blues Challenge to be held on January 7– 11, 2025 on Beale Street in Memphis, Tennessee!

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 take their act to the international stage. See more at: https://blues.org/international-blues-challenge/

In addition to our International Blues Challenge there will also be a Self Produced CD Competition.

Bluetick Tavern is a non-smoking and family-friendly with a delicious menu and beverage service.

Congratulations to our last years Youth Band winner, Danny Garwood: Solo Winner, Foster Meeks and Band Winner, Ray Beltran & BlueMax, they all advanced to IBC in Memphis. Foster Meeks could not attend so our second place winner, Kelle Jolly who represented us.

Regional International Blues Challenge (IBC)

2024 International Blues Challengers

2023 WINNERS