The winners of these competitions go on to the finals, which were held this past year at The Cactus Moon Nite Club in Humble on November 12th. The owner, Thomas Gardner has been an ardent supporter of live blues and HBS's Regional Competition since it's onset three years ago. The Houston Blues Society has officially been in existence since 1993. It's primary mission is the education and preservation of the rich heritage of blues music synonymous with the Houston Gulf Coast area. This years competition boasts of 53 bands from all over the world.
Some bands come from as far away as Japan, France, Ireland and so on.
Prizes for winners include studio recording time, national club and festival bookings, a trophy as well as a generous cash prize. Another prize category is the prestigious Albert King award for the most promising blues guitarist. The winner of the international competition will perform on May 24th , at the W.C. Handy award ceremony also being held in Memphis. This years Houston winners are Gary Clark and the Blazers. Gary Clark Jr. is the 16 year old guitarist and lead vocalist from Austin.