The ‘1st UK Blues Challenge’ was organised by Pete Feenstra (RealMusicLive) in conjunction with Thomas Ruf (European Blues Union) and pre-dates the formation of the UKBlues Federation. It was held at the Boom Boom Club, Sutton, Surrey on 11 December 2014.
Contestants
Henry’s Funeral Shoe
Henry’s Funeral Shoe was formed by two brothers from South Wales, inspired and influenced by many of the albums that singer/guitarist Aled Clifford had looted from his father’s vinyl collection when he was growing up. The Who, CCR, Peter Green, Robert Johnson and the Beatles were favourites, and Aled quickly became a gifted guitar player, aided and taught by Ned Edwards, a long time collaborator of Van Morrison.
https://henrysfuneralshoe.com/
Red Butler
With a burning desire to entertain and pursue a serious music career, at the age of 18 Alex Butler from Uckfield, East Sussex decided to form a band. The blues/rock outfit Red Butler emerged in April 2012, with the line up consisting of Alex Butler (guitar), Charlie Simpson (drums), Jane Pearce (vocals) and Mike Topp (bass). Drawing upon influences from SRV, Etta James, Joe Bonamassa, Gary Moore, Free, King King, Santana and Derek Trucks the band have developed their own style of writing and have begun producing thoughtful, light hearted and melodic compositions.
https://www.facebook.com/redbutlermusic
Laurence Jones
Laurence Jones, who was born in Liverpool but grew up in Warwickshire, is a blues rock guitarist, and singer-songwriter. He has released four solo albums and has won four British Blues Awards, including ‘Young Artist of the Year’ for three consecutive years.
https://www.laurencejonesmusic.com/
Judges
Coming soon.
Winners
The Judges’ verdict was Laurence Jones.
Winners’ Opportunities
Coming soon.
Photo Galleries
Coming soon.
Reviews & Interviews
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Comments and Feedback
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Other
If any reader has memorabilia of the event please email alan@earlyblues.com