Cruisin’ To Memphis July 5th! Blues on the river, breeze in your hair, bands bound for Beale Street!

Introducing the First-Ever Cruisin’ to Memphis!

This summer, the Waterfront Blues Festival has invited the Cascade Blues Association to set sail with something brand new: the first-ever Cruisin’ to Memphis—a floating blues showcase and competition aboard the Portland Spirit the afternoon of July 5th.

It’s not just a show. It’s a full experience: live blues across three levels, musicians battling for a spot at the 2026 International Blues Challenge, and a summer afternoon spent cruising the Willamette with stunning views, cool drinks, and even cooler tunes.

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Three Levels of Music, River Views & Comfort

MAIN DECK – IBC Legends & Local Powerhouses
Everyone on this stage has competed at the International Blues Challenge—and it shows.
Blues guitar master Jonn Del Toro Richardson was part of Diunna Greenleaf’s band when they won the IBC in 2005. He was named Best Guitarist of the Competition that year, and trust us—he’s only gotten better. Joining him are the J2M Allstars: Timmer Blakely, Dave Fleschner, and Dave Melyan, backed by some of the region’s most respected blues talents: Ty Curtis, Rae Gordon, Brady Goss, Chad Rupp, Johnny Wheels and Fenix. This is an all-star blues revue that brings IBC history and local legacy together for one epic, air-conditioned set.

LOWER DECK – The Kivett Bednar Band followed by the J2M Band Finals
Start your cruise with the Kivett Bednar Band, then witness the Journey to Memphis Band Finals, where Kit’s Bag o’ Cats and the Nikki Jones Band go head-to-head. One band will walk away with a coveted slot to compete in Memphis. You’ll want to be there when the winner is crowned.

TOP DECK – J2M Solo Finals followed by Jason “JT” Thomas
Up top, it’s the Journey to Memphis Solo/Duo Finals, with Lilla and Juliet Sings showing just how much power one performer can pack. When the competition wraps, enjoy a special performance from Jason “JT” Thomas as the river breeze kicks up and the skyline rolls by.

This is the blues bash of the summer—and the only place you’ll want to be.

Cruisin’ to Memphis: Get on board, or get left behind.

Advance: $55 | Day-Of: $60 Buy your tickets on the Waterfront Blues Festival Website  https://waterfrontbluesfest.com/tickets/

You Don’t Want To Miss This! Get Your Tickets Now!