The annual International Blues Challenge crowned its winners Saturday night at Downtown Memphis’ Orpheum Theatre, capping the 38th edition of the event.
The Houston, Texas, combo led and named after 20-year-old guitar phenom Mathias Lattin took home the title in the band category, while Sydney, Australia, singer-guitarist Frank Sultana earned the top prize in the solo/duo category.
Staged by the Memphis-based Blues Foundation, the 2023 IBC featured performances from more than 145 competing acts from 40 states and 12 countries playing in and around Beale Street. The event — which began in 1984 and has grown exponentially over the decades — has become one of the blues world’s most important gatherings.
