The big event happening Downtown this week is the 28th annual International Blues Challenge. Blues musicians from around the world come to Beale Street to compete for awards in various categories, as well as to show record labels what they can do. Last year there were 110 bands and 83 solo/duo acts in the Challenge, and just as many are expected this year.
What does this mean for you? The chance to hear some of the best blues in the world for one low price. Wednesday, Thursday and Friday nights they do wristband night on Beale. You pay for a wristband and have access to over a dozen clubs on and near Beale Street. Wednesday and Thursday are the quarterfinals, and Friday is the semifinals. The finals will be at the Orpheum on Saturday.
More info about the festival here. Which night is the best to go? Any night is good, but Wednesday and Thursday are especially good for locals. Many of the people flying in from out of town will not have arrived yet, and you’ll be able to get up close and personal with the bands.
In the meantime, if you need something to do tonight and tomorrow while you’re waiting on IBC to start, why not hit the FedExForum for a Grizzlies game? We host the Spurs tonight and the Nuggets tomorrow. Both games are at 7 PM.
Thanks to those who have sent me Super Bowl information. I’ve started compiling a list and will post later this week. I am still completely undecided where I will watch the game.
Plans for tonight: Pint Nite at the Saucer at 6, poker at the Goose at 7:30. In other words, the Monday usual. I’ll probably post again after work.