BREAKING – Every year the talent on stage at the Orpheum is better than the year before! Every year the artists give their all and play their hearts out representing their fans, their countries, and themselves in their quest to be the best in the blues world. Every year the music that these artists gift to Memphis and the world in the course of this quest is as wildly diverse as it is insanely great.

This year,  Ben Hunter and Joe Seamons emerged triumphant in the race for solo/duo while The Delgado Brothers earned the first place band position with their spirited performances. Bing Futch, representing the Orange Blossom Blues Society, secured Best Solo Guitar by showing his fret board some serious love, and also showing his instrument some love was Sam Sheperd who earned the Best Harp Player award.

Congratulations to the winners, and all the participants as well. Thanks to all who shared their music with Memphis, and the world this week.

BAND Division

1st, The Delgado Brothers (Ventura County [California] Blues Society)

2nd, Paul DesLauriers Band (Montreal Blues Society)

3rd, Norman Jackson Band (Land of the Ozarks Blues Society)

Guitarist – Joey Delgado

SOLO/DUO Division

1st, Ben Hunter and Joe Seamons (Washington Blues Society)

2nd, Inner Vision (Columbus Blues Alliance)

Best Solo Guitar
Bing Futch, Orange Blossom Blues Society

Best Self-Produced CD – Central Iowa Blues Society – Rob Lumbard, Blues in a Bottle
InnerVision     Columbus Blues Alliance – HARP

Best Harp Player
Sam Shepherd