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Date/Time
Date(s) - September 27, 2026
5:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Address
Bluetick Tavern
128 W Broadway Ave
Maryville, TN
37801
United States


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The International Blues Challenge (IBC) represents the worldwide search for those blues bands, 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, solos/duos and youth bands to Memphis to compete in this classic event. This year we continue that fine tradition.
SMBS will have our Regional International Blues Challenge at the Bluetick Tavern in Maryville on Sunday, September 27th. Doors open at 4:00 PM and music starts at 5 PM. Tickets are $10 for members & $15 for non-members.
This is a fund-raiser to help winning musician’s travel fund.


Come root for your favorite blues artist & band…
This year we have:
2 Bands & 2 Solo artists
Low Down Blues Band
Throwin’ Stones

2 Solos
Kirk Fleta
Matt A. Foster
Our panel of 3 judges is Benny Smith from WDVX, Stephen Krempasky President of MASSKUS Productions, and Michael Jordan blues guitarist.
The Smoky Mountain Blues Society holds its regional competition this time of the year in order for the winning acts to have plenty of time to raise much-needed funds and prepare for the excitement of Memphis!

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

The winning artists in each category of Band and Solo/Duo represented East Tennessee at the International Blues Challenge on January 19-23, 2027, on Beale Street in Memphis, Tennessee!

2025 INTERNATIONAL BLUES CHALLENGERS

REGIONAL WINNERS