Sometimes when one writes an article, blog or even a Facebook post on a niche subject (i.e. the Blues) you’re occasionally in for a good case of writer’s block, at least this is the case for your humble scribe here. So I thought I would list some sites where I find inspiration, info, new music, etc. While I am aware that in the so-called business world you would never promote your competition, I personally don’t care, I am trying to get the best “product” out there that I can. If that means pointing out good sites, FB groups, then so be it. Please check the links at the end of this article. Therefore, I get to mention mine first, ha! I have a FB group, North Texas Blues Musicians and Fans. I try to promote local gatherings, happenings, concerts, local bands occurring in the North Texas area, now you don’t have to live here to join, just know I going to be concerned with primarily this area of the country. I have the occasional album review. I used to have one each week, but life got in the way. I also like to throw in some musician humor. I have a YouTube as well, concert videos, guitar show vids/pics, etc. I am working on a new channel that will be revealed soon, that should be a lot of fun. Alright, enough about me, let’s look at some of the others I happen to like.
Texoma Blues Society, Monica Muil admin, this is a great FB group primarily focused on the Texoma (obviously), Sherman/Denison area with some southeastern OK thrown in for good measure. They feature monthly Blues events in Denison. Show reviews, lots of “who’s playing where” listings. Join the FB group, join the TBS proper (I believe its $30 for membership). These folks do a great job of keeping you up to date on what’s happening in their neck of the woods. Check them out.
Trinity River Blues Society, Angela Buffington, admin. This is a very extensive FB group focusing on the N Texas blues scene, plus other areas. For instance, they have bang-up coverage on Las Vegas’ Big Blues Bender right now, I would have loved to have gone. TRBS has show reviews, gobs of club shows, concert listings. They also feature festival listings, I really appreciate these, as I will go thru those lists to find new music and I have found a bunch of gems. Join the FB, join the TRBS proper, wear the t-shirt proudly.
Texas Blues Scene, CT Davis admin, this great site for local blues jams, info, club shows, etc. Plus it keeps you informed when/where CT’s patented Powerhouse blues jams are, and who his special guest of the week will be. I really need to make it out for one of these, looks like a bunch of fun, life just keeps getting in the way.
Blues Blast Magazine, not sure how I magically appeared on their email list but I am exceedingly glad I did. BBM reminds me of the old Dallas music mag, “Buddy”. Great articles, reviews, festival listings. I have discovered a bunch of new music from these guys. I have never checked if you could get a hard-copy version or if it’s only online, I read them online as they come out.
Alright here are the links, you been waiting so patiently for, join one, join all 4, you will certainly be welcomed warmly.
North Texas Blues Musicians and Fans – https://www.facebook.com/groups/591924381326172
Texoma Blues Society – https://www.facebook.com/groups/1789158801377242
Trinity River Blues Society – https://www.facebook.com/groups/NorthTexasBlues
Texas Blues Scene – https://www.facebook.com/groups/2313439832210566
as always Make a Joyful Noise
Dave
Ntblues.com – https://ntblues.com/
North Texas Blues Musicians and Fans FB – https://www.facebook.com/groups/591924381326172
YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCv_gzM_WqLx77t9ijI8YcMA