“Be honest and be yourself. I think that shines through. Following trends or being all about style over substance is lame, and most folks know it. If you're good and can play from your heart, people pick up on that—especially live! Music is universal. Especially the Blues!”

Chris O'Leary:…

“The most important thing I've learned over the years is humility. To respect the "forefathers" of the music. Without them, even the ones I don't particularly like, we wouldn't have this music we love so dearly. As I've gotten older, I've also really embraced the role of mentor.”

Chris Thayer: Nu-Blues…

“I think I miss the authenticity. It seems like so many people are just seeking validation and internet fame instead of focusing on the craft and originality. I'm afraid that people will just plug a few things into the AI machine and then think they did something original. My hope is that the young musicians who are true artists will shine and thrive.”

Chris…

“Music’s role in society is to bring people together through commonality/community, and the way to truly do that (in blues or any other genre), is to get back to basics and tell a solid, relatable story. I often introduce my guitar to the audience as a ‘life story machine,’ and it is. When those stories connect, it’s magic.”

Chris Vincent:…

"I’d imagine, all art forms -- be it dance, music, painting, film -- are essential to the health and well-being of a society. Without the promotion and proliferation of the arts we shrivel up -- or go underground. Those repressive regimes that forbid artistic expression are to us in the free world, terrifying. I would first of all hope for a peaceful future, one in which new ‘golden ages” of the arts flourish."…

"I think to just be yourself and express yourself through honest music making – spreading the “sonic love,” as my friend Matt Wilson calls it."

Chris Bergson: Comforts in New York

Chris Bergson is an internationally acclaimed American born guitarist, singer, and songwriter. Bergson is best known as the leader of the Chris Bergson…

"Don't hold on to your exact vision for the outcome - especially in the journey from writing the song to the finished album. Everybody that I've worked with from Al Kooper to David Bromberg, Coco Brown to Hazel Miller have added to my original idea and taken it to a new place. And if I am open to it ... can see the vision ... it makes it better. Now, sometimes you say, "well that's a great part but not on this track." But for the most part - collaboration…

"I am convinced that there is potential audience for the blues. Both for the older generation but certainly for the young new generation. Many new young blues bands are developing in the Netherlands. The problem is that there are far too few locations for bands to performing live."

Chris Janssen: Blues Over The Years

Chris Janssen is…

"Music for me is a lifelong pursuit. Singing and guitar playing music itself are so deep and vast. You could never learn everything about it. I’m glad I picked something that I can keep learning about for the rest of my life."

Chris Barron: Pocket Full of Chris Tonite

Chris Barron is an accomplished guitar player and Grammy-nominated songwriter…

"Music does so many things it's a form of communication that brings people together, evokes emotions and memories. We use it to relax, and it has been proven to improve physical health."

Chris Hunt: Dr. Feelgood of Rhythm

Chris Hunt is an amazing British drummer, hugely respected. Professional drummer since 1966 has played with many name artists…

"My hope is that younger generations will fall in love with this music much like I did ... My fear is that they’re not being exposed to Americana is big amongst younger audiences in my opinion Blues should be a bigger part of that. When you talk about American Music Blues is woven into, and provides the bedrock for everything Rock country R&B jazz etc. so if you’re talking Americana. What’s more American than Blues."…

"Detroit has a deep and storied musical heritage, with a history deeply rooted in blues, soul, and R&B. The city has been home to legendary musicians like John Lee Hooker, Muddy Waters, and Big Maceo, who helped shape the blues genre. This heritage has created a lasting connection between the people of Detroit and the blues, fostering a strong sense of pride and appreciation for the music."

Chris…

"Music is Devil’s work so we must make a deal and set the controls…"

Voodoo Drummer: Swingin' The Passion 

VOODOO DRUMMER released Erik Satie’s “Gnossienne No 1” in…

"It's pretty simple...be true to yourself. Figure out what you want, what you are capable of and go for it. You have heard this before, but the adversities along the way will break you or make you stronger, hopefully, the latter."

Chris Beard: Nothin' But A Blues Heart

Chris Beard is a modern blues guitarist and singer like no other. His personal…

​"I think this music is timeless, and people will always love it, however, I think the reason blues has been able to generate renewed interest in recent years, is because newer artists are mixing blues with other genres, like rock, soul, pop, even hip hop."

Chris Antonik: Morningstar Blues

Since his nomination for Best New Artist at…

"Undoubtedly, it had a huge impact of bringing people together and transcending the racial problems of the past. There’s something tribal about music that supersedes superficial barometers of judgment. As a musician and songwriter, I want my music to do that indescribable thing that happens when you hear a song you love. To touch people's souls."

Until The Sun: Roomful of Blues…

"When I found blues, I found freedom. Freedom to sing the pain, to wail, to moan, to feel. And with that ability to feel and to release also comes joy and celebration and humor, which you can also find in this music. Freedom to experience the pain and the joy of life. Blues is life."

Avey Grouws Band: Heartbeat Music

With a deep…

"The vibe and tone of the old guitars is truly special! I will never tire of the rawness and in the moment trueness of the early Blues! One take, no digital tools, just the truth in the moment! I think that’s what moves me the most about the old school Blues."

Chris Gill: The Healing Power of Music

Long time Mississippi blues artist Chris Gill has…

"I think the impact of music on the world is understated, undeniable, and incalculable. All peoples find joy from making and listening to music. I want my music to make people happy and deeply think."

Chris St. John: The Soundtrack of Dreams

Over the last quarter century, Long Island singer/songwriter Chris St. John has truly led a diverse and…

"Music, blues or not, is art and culture. Some songs you have written give people a certain feeling and experience and with other songs you try to share the lyrics as well. You always have something to say. With my music I try to contribute to a free and carefree society. A musical ideology that is never finished. But most of all, let people enjoy our music!"

Sweet Bourbon: Born A…