Our Directors
Charles Mitchell is the Founder and CEO of the Jus’ Blues Music Foundation, Inc., where he also serves as Executive Director. As producer of twenty-five Jus’ Blues Music Awards Shows, he has guided the organization’s growth into a nationally respected cultural institution. Charles and his development team created Blues‑Got‑A‑Soul, the Foundation’s signature educational program that connects young people to the history and cultural significance of the Blues—America’s original music art form. With more than four decades of experience in the music industry, Charles has worked across nearly every facet of the business, including artist management, development, production, record label leadership, event organizing, promotion, studio management, music publishing, and songwriting. He draws on this extensive background to champion social change through the arts, frequently speaking at conferences and symposiums on Blues education, nonprofit leadership, fundraising, and cultural heritage.
Raynette Mitchell studied Business Management at Southern Business College in Orlando, Florida. Currently completing her Bachelor’s Degree in Business at West Georgia Technical College. She brings more than 30 years of leadership experience and a proven track record in delivering exceptional customer service. Raynette previously served on the Board of Directors at Medix Medical Institute while managing a private internal medicine practice in Smyrna, Georgia. Since 1994, she has been with Emory Healthcare, where she has built an extensive career. She currently serves as Clinic Operations Manager for the Department of Cardiology at the Emory Heart & Vascular Center in Atlanta, Georgia. In this role, she oversees 18 direct reports who support more than 20 professors and physicians, ensuring efficient operations and high-quality patient care.
Craten Armmer, Sr. began his studies at Knoxville College, an HBCU in Knoxville, Tennessee, before continuing his education at the University of Memphis (formerly Memphis State University). There, he majored in Communications with a concentration in Radio, Television, and Film Production, earning his Bachelor of Arts degree in 1981. A talented media professional, Mr. Armmer is a two-time Mid-South Regional Emmy Award recipient. In 2009, he joined Memphis City Schools (now Shelby County Schools) as General Manager of the Telecommunications Center. In this role, he oversaw the operations of WQOX 88.5 FM and led the Electronic Media Broadcasting Program, which introduced high school students across the district to fundamental radio and television broadcasting techniques. He also provided advanced training at the Telecommunications Center, helping prepare the next generation of media professionals.
Gregory Harrison, I have served on the board of directors for the “Long Island Blue Society” in New York. That was for one turn. I was also allowed the pleasure of being a IBC judge for the Blues Foundation five different years. Also I have two daughters that I have worked with when they were children they performed in local churches as a singer and piano duet. I'm a musician myself, I love to play my saxophone. I have followed and supported the Jus' Blues Music Foundation for many years. One of my great pleasures in my life is attending Blues festivals and seeing raising stars and legends of the perform. It is my sincere honor to join this organization as a board member and I look forward to helping any way I can.
Jus' Blues Records - Advisory Committee
Jus’ Blues Records is dedicated to empowering Blues artists by providing a trusted home for authentic music creation, production, and distribution. Our mission is to preserve the cultural legacy of African American roots music while equipping artists with the professional tools, guidance, and opportunities they need to record, release, and sustain a successful careers in today’s evolving music industry.
Mission
Chair - Sallie Bengtson
Since founding Nola Blue Records in 2014, my mission has been to amplify artists whose music carries both deep roots and powerful personal narratives. The Blues, its history, its heart, its truth has long lived in my soul, igniting an enduring passion to give back to the artists who give so much through their music. Having witnessed the powerful impact of The Jus’ Blues Music Foundation, I am inspired to contribute my expertise and resources to support the Jus' Blues Records mission and goals.
