Blues is folk music - it's music that comes from US, the folk, rather than THEM, the corporate suppliers of 'entertainment' - and the real enemy is the idea that music is no longer something that we DO, but something that we BUY.

In 2004 I saw on a national blues magazine website a statement that they do not list live gigs because they felt that their efforts would be better spent elsewhere. This site was established in opposition to that idea. The most important thing we do here is list gigs and encourage the live playing of blues music.

London has a wealth of all shades of blues talent and is uniquely placed to be a worldwide center of blues. That it is not, and that many international blues artists will tour all over Europe and not come to London, is something we need to change. The change will come not by banging on about how great it was round at Alexis Korners house in 1962 (even if it was), but by celebrating and nurturing the blues scene here and now.

If you play blues then get involved and help us to help you by telling us what you're up to. If you just love blues, then get out and support your local musicians and venues. Try going outside your comfort zone now and again too - you might find something unexpected that'll change your life for the better.

Looking forward to seeing you at a gig soon.

Cheers,

Rick Webb, Editor of Blues In London

Saturday 11th February 2012

Kings Head Theatre Pub

115, Upper Street

Islington

London N1 1QN

FREE ADMISSION - 10pm to 01.00am

020 7226 4443

Visit their website

Wednesday 22nd February 2012

Dover Street Restaurant and Bar

8 - 10 Dover Street

Mayfair

London W1S 4LQ

10pm -Free before 10pm

02074917509

Visit their website

Saturday 25th February 2012

Ye Olde Monken Holt

193, High Street

Barnet

EN5 5SU

FREE ADMISSION 9.30pm start

020 8449 4280

Visit their website

Click here for a full listing.