New Blues Festival Artists

Albert Trepagnier

Albert is the first and most likely the only drummer to be a Bootlegger Artist. A few musicians that he has played with in studio or gig: Eric Clapton, BB King, John Mayall, SRV and my blues band Bootlegger Blues Band. He is also the 167 recipient of the Living Legend Blues Award. He is originally from New Orleans and grew up play the cool N.O. Jazz. He moved to Los Angeles looking for new opportunities.

Ana Popovic

The award-winning, hard-touring, guitar slinger blends smoking electric funk and slide guitar, jazzy instrumentals and a tight blues groove with soulful, feminine vocals. Add to the mix her incredible stage presence, all of which makes her an irresistible force in the world of contemporary blues music.
Called ‘one helluva a guitar-player’ by Bruce Springsteen and nominated for seven Blues Music Awards, Ana was added as the only female guitar-player to the 2014 -’18 all star Experience Hendrix lineup; a nationwide tour celebrating the music and legacy of Jimi Hendrix with Buddy Guy, Eric Johnson, Jonny Lang, Kenny Wayne Shepherd and many more world renown artists.

Andrew Alvarez

Introducing The Alvarez Band, a Los Angeles-based power trio led by the charismatic Andrew Alvarez, whose commanding stage presence and extraordinary guitar skills pay homage to blues legends like Stevie Ray Vaughn and Johnny Winter. Specializing in BLUESROCK and original compositions, this talented group delivers performances that captivate audiences, backed by a gutsy rhythm section that adds depth and power to their sound.

Angela Morgan

Angela Morgan, founder of the band is no stranger to stages and bright lights. (Stanlee) Angela was named after her father, Stanley Morgan a renowned guitarist who led the world famous quartet, the Ink Spots, spanning 40 years until his death. Angela Morgan is also the sister of the late Alto Saxophone great Frank Morgan. Angela’s candid reflections of her brother and growing up in a family of entertainers are featured in the film “Sound of Redemption: The Frank Morgan Story.” Angela is Vice President of The Houston Blues Society and former board member of The Houston Blues Museum as well as the Director for the Minority Nightclub Owners Association (NCLBA) for over 5 years. 

Bill Grisolia

Bill leads the vanguard of the new blues movement in the U.S. (think Black Keys, White Stripes, Joe Bonamassa and John Mayer). He plays festivals, concerts and top night clubs in the US and internationally. In 2020, he sold out a NYE show with Los Lobos and the first-ever music concert at the new Aquarium of the Pacific concert hall (Bill co-produced the show).

The Blue Henrys

The Blue Henrys were formed in 2003 by guitarist-vocalist, Henry Merenda. Known for putting their own spin on Chicago-style blues, they’ve been a fixture on the High Desert blues scene, performing at numerous festivals including the New Blues Festival in both Long Beach and Adelanto. The long list of greats The Blue Henrys have shared the stage with include Rod Piazza And The Mighty Fliers; Junior Watson, Rick Holmstrom, Philip Sayce, Canned Heat, Taj Mahal, and countless others.

Brick Alley Blues Band

The Brick Alley Band is a 4 piece band that plays a variety of music…Rock, Country, Blues. Dance

Bubba and the Big Bad Blues

Bubba and the Big Bad Blues is a SoCal-based original Blues Rock band influenced by Freddie King, SRV, Allman Bros, Meters & Gov’t Mule. Bubba’s powerful vocals, impressive guitar work, and veteran rhythm section forge an electrifying hybrid of smokin’ Texas Blues, SoCal Blues Rock, and New Orleans R&B funk.

Dennis Jones

Johnny Winter, Buddy Guy, George Thorogood and Tinsley Ellis… after opening for these greats, and touring the US, Canada, and Europe for years, Dennis Jones and his band are now HEADLINING! Sizzling hot guitar solos. Smooth and soulful vocals. High-energy stage performance. Backed by a rhythm section that is second to none, this IS Dennis Jones. Check out a live show, and you’ll instantly agree, this band ROCKS the blues like NO other!

Familiar Faces

Familiar Faces is an alt-rock band from Long Beach, CA, blending psychedelic textures, laid back, funky, or high energy grooves, tight harmonies, soulful vocals, and soaring guitar solos. Led by identical twins Chad and Sean Bierman (both guitar and vocals) and bassist/vocalist/keyboardist Nonso Ikeji, the trio draws from a wide palette — think Tame Impala, The Black Keys, The Killers, The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, and Marvin Gaye.

George Webster

George Webster is a powerhouse in the blues scene, known for his soulful guitar riffs and captivating performances that resonate with audiences of all backgrounds. With roots deeply embedded in the rich musical tapestry of America’s blues heritage, George has an uncanny ability to blend traditional sounds with modern flair, creating a unique auditory experience. His journey through the music world has seen him share the stage with legendary artists, showcasing his remarkable talent and charisma that leave a lasting impact. 

Jessica Kaczmarek

Jessica started her professional music career at the age of 17, playing in bands & performing in recording studios as a teenager. She is a multi instrumentalist & singer who’s main instrument is guitar, but also plays piano, bass, ukulele, and mandolin. She is also a music composer on movie soundtracks for films in Brazil, and most recently a documentary in the U.S. about a Hollywood golden age public relations agent entitled “David Mirisch- The Man Behind The Golden Stars”, that has won several awards on the Film Festival circuit here in America.

JR Lozano

Jason was born into a musical family from East L.A. and has played the drums since the age of five. His father, a professional bass player bought his first used Ludwig kit so he could practice along with him. Growing up at rehearsals, shows and on tour he was surrounded by great musicians immersed in the blues and was baptized into them. J.R. has toured the world backing up legendary Blues artists such as Boz Skaggs, Los Lobos, Phil Alvin from The Blasters, Kim Wilson, James Harman, Kid Ramos, Smokin’ Joe Kubek, John Juke Logan, and the Reverend Horton Heat.

Kid Ramos & the 44’s

If David “Kid” Ramos had gone into the family business with his mother and step-father, he might be a professional opera singer today; to the eternal thanks of blues fans around the world, Kid decided to march to a different drummer (who was probably playing a swinging shuffle), and became one of the most exciting, powerful blues guitarists in the business. After first picking up the guitar at age 8, he began playing professionally in his teens
Just a few years later Kid was recruited by the seasoned blues road warrior James “Icepick” Harman.

Laurie Morvan

Blues Foundation Award winner Laurie Morvan has built a career playing guitar-driven, rocking blues, with a back pocket full of well-warranted swagger, and songs that reflect true craftsmanship. In an era where fewer and fewer artists are truly aware of (and engage) their audience, she is a true entertainer; a musical ringmaster leading her devastatingly tight band through a myriad of twists and turns with a level of finesse and musical intuition that only comes from years of working together.

Lester Lands Gospel Brunch

Lester Lands, a maestro of the blues, is a luminary whose soulful melodies and gritty lyrics resonate with audiences worldwide. Born and bred in the heart of the Mississippi Delta, Lester’s journey through the blues began at an early age, soaking in the rich musical heritage of his surroundings. With his weathered guitar in hand and a voice that carries the weight of generations, Lester embodies the very essence of authentic blues.

Of the Gospelaires

Based out of Mooresville, NC, the Gospelaires originated in 1966 as a female quartet within Fern Hill Baptist Church. From 1966 to 1993, many changes molded this quartet to make it what it is today. Later, the Lord led the group to travel and has truly blessed our efforts to serve Him​.

Redd House

Redd House captivates audiences with their raw energy and soulful melodies, seamlessly blending classic blues with modern influences to create a sound that resonates deeply with fans. Known for their electrifying performances, the band draws listeners into a world where every note tells a story, and every rhythm invites you to dance along. 

Shy but Flyy (Stoney Gurrola)

Shy But Flyy is a Blues, Jazz, and spoken- word artist currently located in Long Beach CA. Shy But Flyy leads her own blues band that plays locally at venues and festivals. Along with her band Shy has graced the stage with artist, like Andre Cymone, singing backup at Paisley Park. With Wild Records Shy has performed internationally at the Rhythm Riot Festival in England and Viva Las Vegas festival.

Teresa James

Teresa James and the Rhythm Tramps are on quite a roll. Her persuasive pipes slathered in honey and soaked in Texas-bred sass, keyboardist Teresa James and her band, the Rhythm Tramps, have long reigned as one of Los Angeles’ leading contemporary blues outfits, even though their uncommonly imaginative repertoire, much of it supplied by Terry Wilson, James’ husband, producer, and bassist, is by no means strictly limited to the 12-bar form. Their 2019 CD Here in Babylon was nominated for a Grammy in the Contemporary Blues Album category.

The Barristers (Brophy & Levenson)

Brophy Dale has gained a widespread respect for his passionate roots-rockin’ guitar and vocals. He’s played all over the world, from Moscow to Melbourne, Anchorage to Zurich. lived in Texas to Africa, but now calls Southern California home. He honed his guitar chops in the Midwest, mostly Ann Arbor/Detriot area in countless Rock, R’n B, Blues, Oldies, and Country bands that set him on a journey and has taken him from local bar guitar hero to an international recognized performer. 

Tim Russ

Tim Russ has been working as an actor, director and musician for the past thirty-five years. His talents encompass a wide spectrum of the performing arts including composing, musical performances, writing, producing, directing, and voice-over.

Trepagnier-Hangan

Elizabeth Hangan comes from a musical family, and has been involved in music since she was a little girl. She currently teaches voice, piano and bass at the Folk Music Center. “My first instrument is my voice,” Hangan says. “Next is my bass, and last is piano. I picked up the bass at 43, which is pretty late; most people start in their teens. My parents made me take piano lessons as a child. I wouldn’t call myself a great piano player, but I do well enough to teach beginning piano and writing.”

Twyan “Bud” Moore

Blues, Jazz, R&B, Gospel, Hip Hop. If it has soul and a sound Tywaun “Bud” Moore has a hand in it. This mulit-faceted and talented musician has used his passion and gifting to make the soul of any artists live in the music. Tywaun has travelled the world following his passion and worked with Local, National, and International artist in as many genres of music as countries that he has performed in.

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