Testimony, Past Honoree Betty Padgett
Class of 2026 Jus' Blues Honorees
Receiving the Denise LaSalle Lifetime Achievement Recording Excellence Award is truly a humbling experience. My deepest gratitude goes to the Jus' Blues Music Foundation selection committee for this honor. To be recognized alongside such talented artists is a privilege, and I am thankful for the acknowledgment of my music. This award inspires me to continue sharing my passion. Betty Padgett
KoKo Taylor Queen of the Blues Award
Outstanding contribution to preserving traditional Blues
Queen Iretta Sanders
Queen Iretta Sanders is a blues vocalist born in Tunica, Mississippi, whose career is grounded in the traditions of Mississippi Delta and Chicago blues. Raised in an environment where blues music was a constant presence, she began singing at an early age and developed her performance foundation through continuous live stage work. Her vocal style reflects Delta phrasing, Chicago-influenced structure, and a repertoire that spans traditional blues standards and original compositions.
King of the Blues Awards - A Tribute to B B King
Young Blues Artist preserving traditional Blues heritage
Rell Davenport
A dexterous and inventive guitarist and a fat-toned harmonica phenom, Young Rell is already a commanding vocalist and a poetic and poignant songwriter. Whether he is accompanying himself on guitar while playing harmonica on a rack and singing, or alternating between guitar and harmonica with an ensemble, Young Rell sings his songs with sincerity and without a hint of affectation, working the stage with the poise and charisma of a veteran performer.
Millie Jackson Classy & Sassy Award
Outstanding Female Artistry & Style that keeps it Real in Blues & Soul Music
J'cenae
Jacqueline Cenae Williams, professionally known as J’Cenae, was born on February 6, 1986, to Murindia and the late Clanater Williams in Rolling Fork, Mississippi. From an early age, she showcased her gift for music, singing in her local church and competing in talent shows and pageants. In 2004, she auditioned for American Idol locally and advanced to audition rounds in New Orleans, LA, and later in Denver, CO (2005). Her talent earned her a music scholarship at Alcorn State University, where she performed with the ASU Gospel Choir, t
Bobby Blue Bland Award
Outstanding Blues Vocal Stylist and performer in the Blues arena
Jaye Hammer
Jaye Hammer (born 1981 in Friars Point, Mississippi) is a contemporary Southern Soul-Blues singer and recording artist affiliated with Ecko Records. He began his career around age 18, releasing his debut album Work It On Me in 2002. Known for hits like "Party Mood," he is a prominent figure in modern Mississippi blues
Denise LaSalle Recordings Of Excellence Award
Unique Style & Sound Quality Producing Soul & Blues Music
MZZ REESE
Mzz Reese Born ( Priscilla Thomas) in Jackson Mississippi on May 9th 1963 to the proud parents of Herbert and Bettye Thomas, She was the oldest daughter for them both! Reese been singing all her life since three years of age, she comes from a background of singers Her father in particular, the late Herbert Thomas, who was one of the original Canton spirituals also lead singer.
The "Lucy Award" Tribute to Albert King
Being on Fire, Feeling, Funk Blues & Soul
Rico McFarland
Rico McFarland, born Louis Rico McFarland on March 5, 1960 in Chicago, Illinois, is a highly respected blues, R&B, and soul guitarist and arranger. Known for his smooth tone, precise picking, and ability to adapt to multiple genres, McFarland has spent decades as a first-call sideman in the blues world. For over 40 years, McFarland played guitar for a roster of legendary blues artists, including James Cotton, Lucky Peterson, Albert King, Otis Clay, Syl Johnson and Artie White. He is perhaps best known for his long tenure with Cotton and Peterson, where his work became a hallmark of their sound.
THE HOOKER AWARD
TRIBUTE TO JOHN LEE HOOKER
SINGA B
Born on April 21, 1995, in the vibrant south suburbs of Chicago, Illinois, Jamiah’s musical journey began in a household rich with talent. With a mother whose voice resonated through the air and a father who masterfully wielded the guitar, music was woven into the fabric of his early life. By the age of three, Jamiah was already captivating audiences with his drumming skills, performing at school, church, and alongside his father’s band, The Tony Rogers Band. Jamiah’s love for music knows no bounds
Ruben Hughes Radio Personality Award
Preserving Black Radio Programming
Tracy Bethea
Tracy Bethea began her illustrious radio career in 1987 in the newsroom of the legendary WDIA in Memphis. As she progressed in her career, she became the female voice of Gospel on WDIA and for 10 years. In the late 1990's, Tracy was offered the chance of a lifetime, to help launch a 24 hour AM gospel station that featured a perfect blend of traditional and contemporary Gospel music. She served as the Chief Operator of AM 990 The Light and one of its top radio personalities. Tracy currently serves as the Mid-South Region Brand Coordinator of Gospel for iHeart Media and hosts her On-Air afternoon show from 2-7pm.
William Bell Soul & Blues Award
Outstanding accomplishments as an Artist, Arranger, Writer & Producer
Mose Stovall
Mose Stovall was born and raised in Birmingham, AL in the Housing Projects of the Titusville community, located on the Southside. Mose is a Product of the Birmingham School System where his talent for music was discovered as early as the 3rd grade. Mose is a musician, writer, producer and a soothing vocalist. A natural born entertainer, who Enjoys sharing his gift through music. Mose is a crowd Pleaser! I have been a recording artist since the late 90's.
Benny Latimore "Let's Straighten it out" Award
Preserving Blues & Soul Music Heritage behind the scenes
Robert Terrell
Robert Terrell, Deputy Director at the BB King Museum, shares the profound significance of preserving the legendary musician’s legacy. Opened in 2008, the museum uniquely narrates BB King’s life, from his humble beginnings at the Marxel Cotton Gin to his rise as an iconic figure in music. Terrell highlights a close partnership with BB King’s Club in Memphis, promoting joint events and celebrating the vibrant history of venues like Club Ebony. The museum not only honors BB King’s music but also fosters community connections, showcasing the talents of musicians influenced by his extraordinary journey.
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Jus' Blues Willie Mitchell Artist Award
Outstanding accomplishments as an artist in Blues & Soul
Memphis Gold
Born in Memphis, Tennessee in 1955, Memphis Gold, Chester Chandler was the thirteenth child of fourteen. His father also a musician introduced his son to the guitar at the tender age of 4. By the age of 8, he was a regular on historic Beale Street in Memphis where he played the guitar and danced for pocket change from the crowd. At the age of 12, his guitar skills were honed learning licks at the knee of legendary Delta picker and gospel player Reverend Robert “Tim” Wilkins.
"The Muddy Award" Tribute to Muddy Waters
Outstanding Music Contributions to the Traditional Blues
Roosevelt “Hatter” Purifoy Jr
Roosevelt “Hatter” Purifoy Jr. has performed for decades with a who's who of artists: Buddy Guy, Marvin Gaye, Son Seals, Jimmy Johnson, Willie Clayton; and he appears on dozens and dozens of recordings, likely into the hundreds.
Bobby Rush Blues Entertainers Award
Outstanding Tradition Blues Entertainer
Jamiah Rogers
Born on April 21, 1995, in the vibrant south suburbs of Chicago, Illinois, Jamiah’s musical journey began in a household rich with talent. With a mother whose voice resonated through the air and a father who masterfully wielded the guitar, music was woven into the fabric of his early life. By the age of three, Jamiah was already captivating audiences with his drumming skills, performing at school, church, and alongside his father’s band, The Tony Rogers Band. Jamiah’s love for music knows no bounds