"Today there is far too much imitation and archival creation of the music of the past. All the great jazz artists in the history books had their own unique individual style. It’s important for every musician to manifest their unique musical voice in the same way that every face and every fingerprint are unique!"

John Di Martino: The Poetic Element…

"Basic humility is a big lesson to learn and it's never ending, it's a practice. You have to believe in yourself and what you're doing. At the same time, it's important to be able to listen to advice and know what's good for you. Also, practicing your skills on your instrument, singing, songwriting, etc. is critical and there is no substitute for hard work."

Glen Foster: Unnatural…

"Music can inspire people to change their lives for the better - it can even provide blueprints for that. And of course, it can also ease the pain of existence and provide hope and allow people to think more clearly. I hope that my work can provide insights and clarity, open new pathways not just for hearing but for reflection not just about music and art but about the nature of our existence (and not in a didactic or preachy way, just opening some…

"The blues connects me completely to my past, helps me understand my present, and tells me my future."

Reverend Shawn Amos:

Soul Power, Blues Power, Black Power!

Shawn Ellis Amos (aka Reverend Shawn Amos) is an American songwriter, singer, record producer, web personality and founder…

"I believe if we work hard, do so with passion, integrity, and respect, keep an open door for dialog and constructive feedback, and think outside-the-box we have a recipe for success. The philosophy is treating others well, inspire growth, and ultimately lead the artists’ performances and songs to millions and millions of fans around the world each year."

Jeff DeLia:…

"I think music is a universal language. Like mathematics, it’s a universal method for humans to communicate across language, religion, and cultural barriers. Music is a common denominator and Blues/Rock music has influenced my views on the world, and I hope the music we create does so for others."

Jennifer Lyn: Groove Revival's Journey…

"I want my music to hit people in the heart and soul, and make them think. I’m not interested in making background music. I want to make the world a better place."

Steve Conn: Southern Rootsy Grooves

Steve Conn has played piano, organ or accordion with Bonnie Raitt, Shemekia Copeland, Kris Kristofferson, Dion, Kenny Loggins and a multitude of…

"I think music has grown so much over the past century. Musicianship is at an all time high, and the technology is incredible at enhancing everything one can do. There’s more of literally everything now than there’s ever been, but if I could wax nostalgic about eras now passed, I would say I miss the imperfections."

Jeff Rogers: Blue-eyed Bluesy Soul…

"To me the music was, and it is still the art, and not something to waste my brain with substances or ideology. Perhaps I can be characterized as a progressive lefty, but that's all BS to me."

Leonardo Pavkovic:

The Wonderful (Progessive) Soundtrack of Mr. MoonJune 

Leonardo Pavkovic…

"Music is communication, from one heart to another, and can be a consolation, a reassurance, a kick in the butt. It can be your best friend or really piss you off, but it communicates. As long as we can communicate this world has a chance!"

Burleigh Drummond:

Tin Drum (Talented) Family Band…

"It's interesting to see how the listener reacts to the music and how much they love the music in other parts of the world. It seems to be a universal music that moves people everywhere."

John Clifton: Coast to Coast Blues

As a co-founder (w/ brother Bill Clifton) of Fresno's The MoFo Party Band, John Clifton has solidified himself as one of…

"The popularity of the Blues always goes up and down, but it’ll never die. Right now, there’s a whole new generation of exciting young blues artists emerging who’ll keep the music alive and who’ll keep spreading the news to future generations."

Rick Estrin:

The Nightcats Hits Keep Coming…

"If it wasn't for the blues music rock and roll wouldn't never exist which eventually shook up the world's culture. In today's emotional coldness, the sounds and lyrics of that kind of music provide a direct outlet to real human essence, building a world that is more sensitive and hopeful."

Giotis Kyttaris: Blues, Roots & Black Jug

Athens…

"For those of us who have experienced the magic of that music, it is a worthy pursuit to try to convey that magic to others. It is important that we honor those who created and shaped that music, not just the famous names but also lesser known artists who despite their obscurity have created something profound."

Carl Sonny Leyland: Boogie Woogie Party…

"My travels have confirmed to me that music brings people together in ways that politics, culture or religion never can. I was in Austin, Texas in the early 70s when Willie Nelson brought the hippies and rednecks together. It was amazing. And I was blown away when I first went to Italy to find people who understood no English were huge Townes Van Zandt fans.  As long as music can continue to lead the way to our similarities as opposed to our differences…

"My hope for the future is that the Blues gets more attention than it does, even the Grammy Award for Blues is not considered primetime worthy; to me that’s unfair. My fear is programming is the demise of American Blues Music."

Chris BadNews Barnes: Aristophanes Blues

Recent Nashville transplant Chris BadNews Barnes is a humorist, both by design…

"The impact of blues music on socio-cultural implications is far reaching, touching on themes of emotion, social justice, cultural exchange, community, and artistic expression. It inspires and resonates with people across generations and cultural boundaries."

Ground Zero Blues Club:

Celebrating the Heritage of Blues…

"I miss the honesty of music’s past. I miss great albums, where 8 out of the 10 songs were hits. I miss putting on a record and walking across the room to sit down, because you were invested, and you knew you were in good hands for the next 45 minutes, or so. Nowadays, it seems everyone is chasing that 1 hit. And the album is just the vessel to hold it. I miss really great records."

Cryin’ Out…

"Music moves and inspires me. I think my creative drive comes from the desire to create emotions in others or to inspire others to take action."

Guy Wall: Cardiac Rhythms of New Orleans

Aarythmers is a band that showcases some of the best songwriters and musicians in New Orleans playing songs written by Guy Wall. The group just released…

"Blues represents everyday life. Blues has given me the opportunity to make a living."

Merle Perkins: Everyday I have the Blues

As a teenager Merle played in the Spirit of St. Louis Drum & Bugle Corp. “There is where it all started for me with the drums. If it was not for drum corp., I would not be a drummer today. I owe it all to drum…