Journey to Memphis Winners Announced

Kevin Selfe and The Kivett Bednar Band to Represent the Cascade Blues Association at the 2027 International Blues Challenge

After an exciting afternoon of outstanding performances aboard the Cruisin’ to Memphis Blues Cruise during the Waterfront Blues Festival, the Cascade Blues Association is proud to announce the winners of the 2026 Journey to Memphis competition.

Representing the CBA at the 2027 International Blues Challenge in Memphis, Tennessee will be:

Solo/Duo: Kevin Selfe

Band: The Kivett Bednar Band

Both acts earned their place through two rounds of competition, first at Mekong Bistro in June and then in the finals aboard the Portland Spirit on July 3. Their performances showcased the incredible depth of blues talent in the Pacific Northwest, and they’ll carry that tradition to historic Beale Street next January.

The Journey Continues

Winning the competition is only the beginning.

Over the next several months, the Cascade Blues Association, the winners, volunteers, and our blues community will work together to help raise funds for travel, lodging, meals, and other expenses associated with competing in Memphis.

One of the biggest changes this year is how we’re approaching fundraising.

Rather than relying primarily on raffles and auctions held during individual events, we’re expanding our reach with an online silent auction that will allow supporters from anywhere to participate. More details, including how to donate auction items and how to bid, will be announced soon.

Join Us at Our First Fundraiser

Our first Journey to Memphis fundraiser takes place:

Beach Hut Deli

Wednesday, August 12
6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
12436 SW Main St, Tigard, OR 97223

Beach Hut Deli will generously donate 20% of all purchases (5 – 9pm)  to help send this year’s winners to Memphis.

Come enjoy dinner, great music, and help support Kevin Selfe and The Kivett Bednar Band as they prepare to represent the Pacific Northwest on an international stage.

Additional fundraising events will be announced throughout the summer and fall.

Help Send the Winners to Memphis

There are many ways to support the Journey to Memphis:

• Attend upcoming fundraising events
• Donate to the Journey to Memphis fund
• Donate items or experiences for our online silent auction
• Volunteer with the fundraising team
• Share our events and auction with family, friends, and coworkers

Every meal purchased, every auction item donated, every volunteer hour, and every contribution helps move our winners one step closer to Beale Street.

Thank you to everyone who competed, volunteered, attended, donated, and cheered on this year’s artists. Journey to Memphis is possible because of an incredible community that believes in supporting live blues music and the musicians who keep it alive.

We’ll see you along the journey to Memphis.