“I miss the mystery and curiosity in discovering how much good music we had from England and U.S.A, with a preference for African-American music, and the rediscovery of great forgotten artists. Today, blues music Is just one way to get some attention, superficiality and vanity are the true godfathers of the scene, to the detriment of culture and knowledge.”…

“I once wrote that McLaughlin’s music sticks out like a jagged rock. To me, there is nobody like him and never will be. I can’t explain the draw of his music to me outside of using a metaphor like Star Trek’s Tractor Beam. I am drawn to his music. I believe it is the same for others. When it comes to McLaughlin’s music, you either get it or you don’t. There is no middle! For me, and I assume for those that remain spellbound, there is a…

“I think the most important aspect is teaching young musicians that blues music is the real foundation of every other kind of music. It will only help them on whatever musical path they choose.”

Matthew Curry: One For The Ride

Matthew Curry, one of…

“The blues is a music with a deep and powerful history, carrying the voices, stories, and emotions of generations. It reminds us where we come from and how people pushed through difficult times, turning their lived experiences into music.”

Harry Blues: I’ll Play The Blues For You…

“If you don’t know the roots, then you don’t know where you come from. All this modern music basically comes from the old blues. It’s important to make that statement, to show that history, and to keep the blues alive. At the same time, the blues must continue to develop — to grow, to spread, to take many different forms. That evolution is necessary for the blues to stay alive and remain relevant. So, I think it’s very important…

“I think one of the biggest similarities is the swing feel. A lot of Indian rhythms are swung which is why Blues and Jazz are accepted. The people can move to it the same way they can to their own folk music. European and Indian classical on the other hand have very straight feel rhythmic patterns. It’s hard to dance to that.”…

“The Blues is a really big umbrella of a genre. The Blues in my mind is already spread pretty far and wide in a wonderful way. I think it's important that we share the music we love to the World because we love it and there are many other people out there that will also love it. By sharing these treasures we build a better connection and community with each other.”

Ben Rice:…

“Blues is the Truth. It is essentially the music that people wrote about their Lives and circumstances ....we need that honesty in music. the Big labels will always copy from it and make it generic but Blues and Roots artists keep the truth front & centre.”

Johnny Max: Rhythm & Blues Friends …

"Expression, it’s just individual expression and what’s wonderful when you get a group of individuals who can actually do that together."

Robben Ford: Shambhala Blues Tantra

Robben Ford is one of the premier electric guitarists today, particularly known for his blues playing, as well as his ability to be comfortable in a variety of…

“When I watch films, I am constantly impressed with the power of the soundtrack. Block your ears during an emotional scene and you will understand that power - and that manipulation. Music affects us deeply and we often don't give that credit. When I travel, I see that it is music that draws a culture together (the Irish pub, the Argentine dance group, etc.) and shouts out their identity when away from home; songs at a…