On Thursday April 30th 2026 the Ottawa Blues Society (OBS) will bring Ottawa's best blues bands to the stage for the Road to Memphis Challenge. Bands made up of three or more musicians—will perform 20–25 minute sets, judged using the official International Blues Challenge criteria: Blues Content, Originality, Vocals, Instrumental Talent, and Stage Presence. Open to artists from across Eastern Ontario and the National Capital Region of Quebec, the competition showcases the depth of blues talent in the Ottawa area. The winners receive support from the OBS to get you down to Memphis to have the time of your life whilst networking with the biggest Canadian festival bookers.

The winning act will represent the Ottawa Blues Society at The International Blues Challenge and perform alongside hundreds of the best blues musicians from around the globe. One stage. One night. One band headed to Memphis! Join us at the Hard Rock Cafe Thursday April 30th 7pm to 10pm and listen to Ottawa's best blues bands LIVE!