Jeff Kelley has played acoustic guitar since 1964. He mainly plays in the Piedmont and Delta styles as he believes they are the most expressive and exhibit the greatest depth of emotion. Jeff is from Western Pennsylvania where he has lived his entire life. He released a CD called Classic Acoustic Blues that pays tribute to great acoustic blues artists. Caption text and photo by Dusty Scott.

The Nouveaux Honkies imaginative originals are well-conceived interpretations of blues and R&B classics. They have a matchless sound and perform a blistering show with their futuristic approach to music that nevertheless retains an authentic American style. With fluid guitar work, reverent vocals and a haunting violin, this deep rhythm section is a discovery of the year. The Nouveaux Honkies represent the Blues Alliance of the Treasure Coast. Caption text and photo by Dusty Scott.

Jennifer Marriot’s velvety, gritty, growling vocals serve up an original down-home blues sound. Her passionate guitar style accompanied by a rock-solid rhythm section create a recipe for blues crooning. Jennifer represents the Friends of Renitesville Blues. Caption text and photo by Dusty Scott.

Fronted by the hot, soulful vocals of Suze Sims and accompanied by the smoking blues guitar of Teri Anne Wilson (photo), this group features some of the Northwest's finest blues musicians. Innovative song writing and polished standard covers from a tight band with a strong professional sound. They represent the Sound Sound Blues Association. Caption text and photo by Dusty Scott.

Rich Berry is an original in every way and has been playing for music most of his life. He is well-versed in resonator guitar and harp, using a foot box for a low-end resonance that presents a band sound. He gravitates towards blues and R&B and has performed at many blues events including the King Biscuit Blues Festival. Rich represents the Kansas City Blues Society in the solo/duo event. Caption text and photo by Dusty Scott.

Bid Daddy Fox worked with the legendary Willie Banks and has been deeply rooted in gospel and blues for over 40 years. His influences include ‘60s and ‘70s soul and blues masters like Buddy Guy, Jimi Hendrix and Slim Harpo. Big Daddy Fox & the Krewe represent the Mid North Michigan Blues Society. Caption text and photo by Dusty Scott.

Alice Stuart has played with Lightnin' Hopkins, Albert King and Mississippi John Hurt among others. In the ‘60s, Alice recorded with Arhoolie and Fantasy Records while touring nationally and internationally. After a 15-year hiatus, she returned to making music in 1992. Alice is from the Northwest blues scene and represents the Cascade Blues Society. Caption text and photo by Dusty Scott.