Date/Time
Date(s) - September 27, 2022
7:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Address
Open Chord Knoxville
8502 Kingston Pike
Knoxville, TN
37919
United States

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), one such 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.

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.

Blues Acts that will be performing on Tuesday, September 27th at Open Chord are:

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 24-28, 2023 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/ 

The cover charge for the competition will be $5.00 for Blues Society members and $10.00 for non-members. Doors open at 6 PM, music starts at 7 PM. Purchase tickets at the door, no advance sales.  Proceeds go towards funding the winning bands’ travel to Memphis.

Open Chord is a non-smoking and family-friendly with a delicious menu and beverage service.   

Mighty Blue performing in Memphis for the IBC

Check out highlights from the 2020  International Blues Challenge!