The 2026 Blues Music Awards are here, and the nominees are a testament to the diverse and vibrant world of blues! But who will take home the coveted trophies?
The Blues Foundation has revealed its picks, with the winners to be decided by its esteemed members. The highly anticipated event will grace Memphis, Tennessee, on May 7, 2026, marking the 47th celebration of this prestigious awards ceremony.
Let's dive into the nominations, shall we?
Acoustic Blues Album
- Catfish Keith's 'Sugar for Sugar – Vol. 1 2025 Summer Sessions' is a contender, showcasing his unique style.
- Doug MacLeod's 'Between Somewhere and Goodbye' is a heartfelt journey.
- Erin Harpe pays tribute to Mississippi John Hurt in 'Let The Mermaids Flirt With Me'.
- Hudspeth & Taylor bring energy with 'Kimuziki Live in Des Moines'.
- Johnny Iguana's 'At Delmark' is a must-listen.
Acoustic Blues Artist
This category features the talented Catfish Keith, Doug MacLeod, Eric Bibb, Kevin Burt, and Rhiannon Giddens.
Album of the Year
A hotly debated category! The nominees include collaborations like Blood Brothers Mike Zito & Albert Castiglia's 'Help Yourself' and Bobby Rush & Kenny Wayne Shepherd's 'Young Fashioned Ways', as well as solo efforts from D.K. Harrell, Larry McCray, and Tommy Castro & The Painkillers.
B.B. King Entertainer of the Year
A true legend's award! The nominees are Castro Coleman (Mr. Sipp), Rick Estrin, Ronnie Baker Brooks, Ruthie Foster, and Vanessa Collier.
Band of the Year
Which band will reign supreme? Anthony Paule Soul Orchestra, John Nemeth and the Blue Dreamers, Southern Avenue, Tedeschi Trucks Band, and Vanessa Collier Band are all in the running.
Best Emerging Artist Album
These rising stars have released exceptional albums: Brody Buster's 'Redemption', Allison August's 'August Moon', Sean McDonald's 'Have Mercy!', Robbin Kapsalis' 'THE BLUES IS IN THE HOUSE', and Kyle Rowland's 'NOT HOLDING BACK!'.
Blues Rock Album
Get ready to rock! Blood Brothers Mike Zito & Albert Castiglia, Devon Allman, Kent Burnside, Tom Hambridge, and Walter Trout are all nominated for their electrifying albums.
Blues Rock Artist
A category for the rockin' blues masters! Ana Popovic, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Kirk Fletcher, Tommy Castro, and Walter Trout are the nominees.
Contemporary Blues Album
Celebrating the modern blues sound! Brandon Santini, Carolyn Wonderland, D.K. Harrell, Monster Mike Welch, and Southern Avenue are all recognized for their innovative albums.
Contemporary Blues Female Artist
The ladies are taking over! Carolyn Wonderland, Danielle Nicole, Ruthie Foster, Samantha Fish, and Vanessa Collier are nominated.
Contemporary Blues Male Artist
The gentlemen of contemporary blues! Brandon Santini, Castro Coleman (Mr. Sipp), Chris Cain, Christone ”Kingfish” Ingram, and D.K. Harrell are in the running.
Instrumentalist Awards
The awards also honor the best instrumentalists in various categories, including bass, drums, guitar, harmonica, horn, piano, and vocals. With nominees like Benny Turner, Larry Fulcher, Chris Layton, Chris Cain, Billy Branch, and many more, the competition is fierce!
Song of the Year
The heart and soul of blues music! The nominees include 'Mile After Mile' by Brandon Santini & Jeff Jensen, 'Bye Bye Blues' by Larry McCray & Charlie Walmsley, and more.
Soul Blues Album
Feelin' the soul! Dave Keller, Jimmy Burns & Soul Message Band, Johnny Rawls, Tad Robinson Band, and The Soul of John Black are all nominated for their soulful albums.
Soul Blues Female/Male Artist
Soulful voices galore! The female artist category includes Annika Chambers, Candice Ivory, and Kat Riggins, while the male artist category features Alabama Mike, Curtis Salgado, and John Nemeth.
Traditional Blues Album
Honoring the blues roots! Nominees include collaborations from Bobby Rush & Kenny Wayne Shepherd and Buddy Guy, as well as solo works from Charlie Musselwhite and Maria Muldaur.
Traditional Blues Female/Male Artist
Keeping the blues tradition alive! The female artist category features Diunna Greenleaf, Eden Brent, and Rhiannon Giddens, while the male artist category includes Billy Branch, Jimmie Vaughan, and Rick Estrin.
International Blues Album
Blues knows no borders! Brandon Isaak, Honeybear, the Band, Hubert Dorigatti & Blues harp masters, J.T.Lauritsen & The Buckshot Hunters, and The Angelique Francis Band are all recognized for their global contributions to the blues.
And there you have it! The 2026 Blues Music Awards nominees are a testament to the incredible talent and diversity within the blues community. But who will win? That's for the members of the Blues Foundation to decide. Stay tuned, and let the blues keep you captivated until the big reveal!
