Quebec to Memphis 2026 — Solo/Duo Registration Now Open


The Montreal Blues Society is now accepting registrations for the Solo/Duo category of its annual "Quebec to Memphis" contest. This fall, the Society will select one act to represent Quebec and the Montreal Blues Society at the 42nd International Blues Challenge (IBC 2026), taking place January 13–17 in Beale Street’s Historic District, Memphis.

The IBC is the largest gathering of blues musicians in the world, with acts sponsored by blues societies from across the globe competing for top honors.


Quebec’s Legacy in Memphis

Quebec artists have consistently made their mark at the IBC. Past highlights include:

  • Semi-finalists: Michael Jerome Browne, Justin Saladino Band
  • Finalists three years in a row:
  • Dawn Tyler Watson & Paul Deslauriers - Finalist in 2012
  • Paul DesLauriers Band – 2nd place in 2016
  • Dawn Tyler Watson & The Ben Racine Band – 1st place in 2017
  • Ben Racine - Guitarist of the Year in  2017
  • Angel Forrest Band – Finalist in 2018
  • Denis Viel & Little Leslie - Finalist 2020
  • Adam Karch – Winner of the Memphis Cigar Box Guitar Award (Best Solo/Duo Guitarist) in 2023


This will be the 11th edition of "Quebec to Memphis" hosted by the Montreal Blues Society.

 Contest Details

  • Category: Solo/Duo only (1 or 2 members, as defined by the IBC)
  • Eligibility: Open to all Quebec-based acts
  • Registration period: August 10 to midnight August 31, 2025
  • Local competition venue: Bistro à Jojo
  • Date: October 7th, 2025
  • Performance time: 20–25 minutes (to be confirmed)
  • Judging: By a panel of independent judges using IBC guidelines
  • Travel dates: January 13–17, 2026 — you must be available and have a valid passport


Travel & Financial Support

The winning act is responsible for covering their own travel, lodging, and expenses in Memphis. The Montreal Blues Society will organize fundraisers to help defray a portion of these costs. Any expenses beyond the financial support provided are the sole responsibility of the winning act.


Questions?

  • For more information or clarification, please contact:
         info@bluesmontreal.com


Quebec to Memphis IBC Logo
Dawn Tyler Watson and Fuel  Junkie
Hey blues buds,

Already that time of year again! The magic of Christmas is almost upon us. Time for dinners, parties, and good times with friends and family. Here’s a great suggestion on where to have one of your gatherings.

Concerto Productions has booked a treat at Le Petit Campus on Saturday, December 7th. The Montreal Blues Society’s 2017 Quebec to Memphis winner, Dawn Tyler Watson, will be heating up the stage with the Ben Racine Band at 8 pm. Belting out songs from her latest album ‘Mad Love’ as well as other goodies, the Queen of the Blues is always a delight to catch live.

Kicking off the evening is none other than the 2019 Quebec to Memphis winner, Fuel Junkie. Come support them as they make their way to Memphis. You can pick up a copy of their new album ‘All Out’ at the show. Makes a great stocking stuffer! 

These two acts on the same bill is a Christmas present in itself. Come and support local talent and help share their holiday spirit. 

December 7th, 2019 at 20:00 (doors open at 19:00)

Petit Campus
57 Prince Arthur Est
Montréal, QC 
H2X 1B4ph