BLUES People, 2023 and 2024 North Jersey Blues Society (NJBS) International Blues Challenge (IBC) Winners, and 2024 IBC Semifinalists in Memphis, headline a NJBS concert and fundraiser taking place at Crossroads in Garwood, 78 North Ave., Sunday, October 13. 4pm-7pm. Tickets: $10. Info: (908) 232-5666 or visit linktr.ee/xxroads. Also performing: Ed Alstrom, NJBS IBC Winner in the Solo/Duo category. BLUES People are Kelton Cooper (vocals/guitar), Mike Griot (bass), Ron Thompson, (keyboards) and Gene Lake (drums). The New Jersey/New York-bound has been compared Meters, Luther Allison, Keb Mo’ and Buddy Guy, flattering comparisons the band doesn’t take lightly.
BLUES People released two well-received promotional singles in 2022 (“The Skin I’m In” and “Troubled Times”), and this year, released its 2024 album The Skin I’m In — nominated by the Blues Blast 2024 Music Awards for “Best New Artist Debut Album” and widely praised by music critics. “They are the real deal…loved their set and love this album” writes Blues Blast. “(BLUES People) is what I think New York City blues sounds like today,” states Big City Rhythm & Blues Magazine, while NJArts.net asserts, “one of the most notable new bands on the New Jersey/New York blues scene in recent years.”
Each BLUES People member is a seasoned veteran who have paid their dues; as individual side men, they have supported a who’s-who of touring “A-Listers”, including Sue Foley, Josh Smith, Kool & the Gang, Ruf Records Blues Caravan, Joanne Shaw Taylor, Bo Diddley, Jr. and Michael Hill’s Blues Mob.
“I’m extremely blessed and honored to make great Blues music with (not only) BLUES People, but those I’ve worked with in the past,” shares Mike Griot, BP bandleader, career bassist, and successful festival producer (Griot produces approximately eight events per year). “I’m really looking forward to my return to the global blues family at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis.” Griot is also civically active, as a Curator and Event Producer at SOPAC (South Orange Performing Arts Center).
**BLUES People 2024 Fall-Winter Shows/Special Events**
Oct 13 (Sun) NJBS/IBC FUNDRAISER@CROSSROADS Garwood NJ
Oct 26 (Sat) LIZZIE ROSE MUSIC ROOM Tuckerton NJ
Dec 22 (Sun) MONTCLAIR BREWERY Montclair NJ
Jan 7-12 INTERNATIONAL BLUES CHALLENGE Memphis TN
(Garwood NJ) – dougdeutschPR