Your Guide to the Journey to Memphis

From Portland to Beale Street — the Pacific Northwest’s blues pipeline to the world

Every year, the Cascade Blues Association (CBA) opens the door to something bigger than a competition. The Journey to Memphis (J2M) is a launchpad — a chance for artists to step onto an international stage, for fans to fuel that journey, and for a community to rally around the music that connects it all.

Whether you’re a musician, a supporter, or someone looking to get involved, here’s how the journey unfolds.

For Competing Artists

Big dreams. Raw talent. Real blues. This is your shot.

Step 1 — Join the CBA

To compete, at least one member of your act must be a Cascade Blues Association member. Membership opens the door to J2M and helps support the artists who ultimately represent our region on an international stage.

Step 2 — Check Your Eligibility

J2M is open to Oregon residents and Washington residents within 250 miles of Portland. There are a few additional guidelines:

• Acts affiliated with Blues Music Award nominees or winners are not eligible
• Artists who have competed in the International Blues Challenge (IBC) for two consecutive years must sit out a year
• Acts may compete in Memphis a maximum of three times
• If you win another blues society’s competition before CBA’s event, you’ll need to withdraw

Step 3 — Submit Your Entry (Early May)

Get in early — spots fill fast and the road to Memphis won’t wait.
Entries typically open May 1 and remain open until capacity is reached. To qualify:

• Complete the entry form (with your CBA member number)
• Submit a high-quality photo (300 dpi JPG)

Keep an eye on the CBA website for exact dates and details.

Step 4 — Know the Format

J2M mirrors the International Blues Challenge structure:

• 20-minute performance sets
• 10-minute changeovers (time limits matter — penalties apply)
• Backline provided for bass and drums
• Bands = 3+ musicians; Solo/Duo = 1–2 performers

Step 5 — Compete in Round One (Early June)

Perform like Memphis is watching — because the road starts here.
The first round showcases the region’s talent, all competing for a chance to advance.

Step 6 — Win the Finals

One stage. One shot. Beale Street or bust.
Finals take place aboard the Cruisin’ to Memphis Blues Cruise during the Waterfront Blues Festival. Bands and solo/duo acts compete on separate decks, and one winner from each category earns the honor of representing the CBA.

Step 7 — Head to Memphis (January)

Winners move on to the International Blues Challenge — the largest gathering of blues musicians in the world. Held on Beale Street, the IBC features performances across 20+ venues, along with workshops, networking events, and showcases that bring the global blues community together.

For Fans & Supporters

You’re not just buying a ticket — you’re helping send a musician to Memphis.

Attend the Competition

Catch the early rounds and discover your new favorite artists. Performances typically begin in the afternoon.

Experience the Finals

The finals cruise is more than a show — it’s an experience. Live blues across multiple decks, a competitive edge in the air, and the Willamette River rolling by as the soundtrack plays on.

Support the Fundraisers

Raffles, live music, and the warm glow of keeping the blues alive.
Every ticket, raffle entry, and auction bid helps cover travel costs for the artists heading to Memphis.

Donate

Can’t attend? You can still contribute directly through the CBA. Donations — including items for raffles and auctions — help make the journey possible.

For Volunteers

The blues runs on heart, hustle, and people like you.

The Cascade Blues Association is powered by volunteers. From writing and social media to event support and logistics, there are countless ways to contribute your time and talent.

For Youth Artists

The future of the blues is in good hands — maybe yours.

Youth musicians have their own path to Memphis through a separate competition held later in the year. Selected acts attend the IBC and perform in the Youth Showcase, representing the next generation of blues artists.

Stay Connected

• Website: cascadeblues.org
• Competition Questions: J2M@cascadeblues.org
• Donations & Volunteering: CBAstaff@cascadeblues.org

This isn’t just a competition.
It’s a year-long journey powered by musicians chasing something bigger, volunteers giving their time, and a community that refuses to let the blues fade quietly into the background.

It starts here. And if you’re paying attention, you can feel it —
that low hum before the first note,
that spark before the spotlight hits.

Memphis is calling.