CRBN IBC Challenges to qualify for IBC 2027:

Prizes:

1. Nomination to the International Blues Competition (IBC) in Memphis, January 19th to 23rd, 2027
2. Cash prizes to be used only towards expenses for the trip to Memphis:

• Band - $2,000 cash
• Solo-Duo - $1,000 cash

To Enter:

• Submit your entry to Richard Green: richard@crbn.org
• To enter performers should submit a recording of their material.  Most formats accepted e.g. MP3, YouTube link, SoundCloud link, CD (please ask for mailing address) etc.
• Submit a minimum of 2 but no more than 4 songs (at least one song must be an original composition)
• Submit a brief bio listing the performers and their instruments (and/or vocals)
• The CRBN Board of Directors will select up to 4 contestants to compete

Deadline For Entries:

• Band Challenge Deadline:  July 6th, 2026 (chosen performers will be notified by July 8th). The Band Challenge event will take place on a Sunday afternoon in August at a venue to be determined.

• Solo-Duo Challenge Deadline: August 14th, 2026 (chosen performers will be notified by August 17th). The Solo-Duo Challenge event will take place the afternoon of Saturday, September 19th, 2026 at Caffe Lena in Saratoga, NY.

Eligibility:

• A band is considered to be any combination of 3 or more performers whereas a solo-duo act is one or two performers
• At least one performer must be a current CRBN member. (Go to www.crbn.org/membership)
• Must have at least one original song
• Must play primarily blues music (the definition of what qualifies as “blues” is broad and we do not have a strict definition).
• Must be available for the challenge:
  • The challenge events will be on a Sunday afternoon, approx. 1 – 5 pm.
  • Performers may be required to be at the venue for sound check as early as 11am.
• Must be available to travel to the IBC in Memphis, January 19th to January 23rd.
• Must be prepared to abide by IBC competition rules.
• Must live in the area served by CRBN.
• No performer can have been nominated for a Blues Music or WC Handy Award.