Jus’ Blues News • 26th Annual Awards Week Recap

 

Greetings Family,

 

It’s a wrap ~ and what a week it was.

 

The 26th Annual Jus’ Blues Music Awards has officially been added to the history books, and this year’s celebration reminded us once again why our culture, our music, and our community remain so powerful.

 

The Awards Show & Dinner: A Night to Remember.

 

The Awards Show and Dinner delivered unforgettable moments from start to finish. Our honorees and performing artists lit up the stage with passion, authenticity, and soul. Rising talents like Harrell Devenport, Singa B, and Jamiah Rogers gave standout performances that left the audience buzzing. A special highlight was the introduction of a new award named in honor of Benny Turner, created to recognize the Sidemen, the musicians whose mastery and support stand behind every great front artist. This tribute was heartfelt and long overdue.

 

Blues‑Got‑A‑Soul Workshop and Museum Without Walls DebutThe Blues‑Got‑A‑Soul Workshop and luncheon were both well‑attended and deeply inspiring. A major highlight of the afternoon was the debut of the Museum Without Walls digital presentation, featuring powerful photographic contributions from Jim Alexander and Jonathan Mason, showcasing legendary Jus’ Blues honorees and historic performances. The session was moderated by Tufara Waller‑Muhammad, who led a thoughtful conversation with Jus’ Blues founder Charles Mitchell about the origins of Jus’ Blues, the mission behind the movement, and the importance of preserving Blues heritage for future generations. It was a moment filled with reflection, pride, and renewed commitment to the culture we serve.Our Jus’ Blues Awards Show Band, led by Musical Director Dexter Allen, kept the energy high and the music tight all night long. Every performance was special, every moment meaningful.

 

White Linen Party & Fish Fry: The Perfect Finale. We closed out the week with the legendary Jus’ Blues White Linen Party & Fish Fry, and it was nothing short of magical. Zac Harmon headlined the night, backed by his band The Drive, with a powerful appearance from Lady Adrena. The dance floor stayed full, the crowd stayed electric, and the spirit of Blues wrapped around everyone in attendance.A Week of Legacy, Love, and Blues. From the workshops to the awards to the final celebration, this year’s event showcased the very best of our Blues family, the legends, the newcomers, the supporters, and the keepers of the flame. Thank you to everyone who attended, performed, volunteered, supported, and celebrated with us.The 26th Annual Jus’ Blues Music Awards was a triumph.Here’s to the legacy we honor, the culture we protect, and the music that keeps us together.

 

Until next year,

 

One Love!

The Jus’ Blues Music Foundation Family