The International Blues Challenge returns to Memphis for its 34th year this week. Bands, duos, and solo artists from all over the world will come to Memphis this week to compete and get noticed by record labels. Things kick off Tuesday with an International Showcase at Clayborn Temple. The quarterfinals happen Wednesday and Thursday on Beale Street, with a wristband getting you access to all the music. Semis are Friday on Beale, and Saturday the finals are at the Orpheum.
Tennessee legislators are considering Sunday liquor sales. They want to align the hours with those which beer can be sold. ‘Bout time Tennessee considers entering the 21st century.
Crosstown Brewing Company has announced its opening date: February 16.
My friend Ryne Hancock has a great series going about 50 things to know if you’re going to Mardi Gras in New Orleans for the first time.
Oishii Japan, a celebration of Japanese home cooking, ramen, dessert and sake, happens at the Memphis Botanic Garden noon to 3 this coming Saturday. $5 to get in and then you can buy $10 or $20 books of tickets to taste food. Note that this is a cash only event, so stop by the ATM on your way there. There will be door prizes donated by local Japanese companies.
This Friday, January 19 from 7 to 9 at Loflin Yard, they will have The Forgotten Martini. They’ve been aging a batch of gin and vermouth since October 2016. Supplies are limited so get there early.
Next time you’re trying to gather courage to go outside of your comfort zone, remember that Dusty Rhodes once came at Andre the Giant with a flying headscissors. pic.twitter.com/HCy8u6V108
— Denny Burkholder (@DennyBurkholder) January 12, 2018
Great day at Blind Bear yesterday. My troll was quite the conversation starter. Apologies for not making it down to Max’s Sports Bar for their 10th anniversary but the sidewalks were just too icy.
That’s it for now. Back tomorrow with more news.