The winners of the 35th Blues Music Awards were announced in Memphis, May 8th. A Little Walter tribute album featuring harmonica masters Billy Boy Arnold, Charlie Musselwhite, James Harman, Sugar Ray Norcia, and Mark Hummel received two awards, including album of the year. In various categories, John Németh, Shawn Holt & the Teardrops, Gary Clark Jr., Doug MacLeod, and Trampled Under Foot were all first time winners.  “Soul Queen of New Orleans” Irma Thomas won for best Soul Blues Female Artist and Bobby Rush was awarded Best Soul Blues Album for his recording “Down in Louisiana.” From Chicago, the legendary Buddy Guy took home the B.B. King Entertainer Award.

For a complete list of winners:

The Blues Foundation
http://www.blues.org/2014/05/35th-blues-music-award-winners-announced/

Clarksdale Caravan Music Fest

If you’re still in town and want more blues, check out the nearby
Clarksdale Caravan Music Fest. Now in its eighth year, the free festival is always held right after the Blues Music Awards. The line-up includes Super Chikan, Rip Lee Pryor, Robert “Wolfman” Belfour, Watermelon Slim, and Liz Mandeville.

Clarksdale Caravan Music Fest
http://www.blues2rock.com/Blues2Rock/CCMF.html