Previous events

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY TO BLUE MOON!!! A weekend of bands and food....all FREE... featuring a "special appearance set" on SUNDAY 4/221@6pm by 2023 North Jersey Blues Society/IBC Champions and 2024 International Blues Challenge/Memphis Semifinalists BLUES People!!

"POST-PANDEMIC" BLUES...

“New York Blues” can be described like the global phenomenon that it is: edgy, honest and one-of-a-kind. From Lionel Hampton to Ruth Brown …from Michael Hill to King Solomon Hicks — New York can claim its own unique blues experience.

BLUES PEOPLE is a NY/NJ blues band featuring...KELTON COOPER (vocals/guitar), MIKE GRIOT (bass), RON THOMPSON (keys) and GENE LAKE (drums). Early comparisons to the Meters, Luther Allison, Keb Mo' and Buddy Guy are starting to roll in!

Having released two promotional singles in 2022 ("The Skin I'm In" and "Troubled Times"), the band has independently released its 2024 debut album "The Skin I'm In".

These seasoned veterans have certainly paid their dues; as individual side men, they have supported a who’s-who of touring “A-listers”, including Sue Foley, Josh Smith, Kool & the Gang, Ruf’s Blues Caravan Bo Diddley, Jr. and Michael Hill’s Blues Mob… just to name a few.

Blues People musically explores the effects of the blues on modern American culture on many universal levels... and is a modern chronicle of four "real-life blues brothers" living in THIS time in America... while surviving the NY/NJ-Metro urban landscape.

BLUES PEOPLE WINS THE NJBS/INTERNATIONAL BLUES CHALLENGE!! ​ BLUES PEOPLE was born during the pandemic… but the band members have authentically lived their truths - as lifelong working musicians, producers and recording artists for over 30 years.

After taking the NY-metro area by storm for 3 years with their incredible shows and musicianship, the band recently won the North Jersey Blues Society International Blues Challenge… and (in their very first attempt) made the SEMIFINALS in the 2024 Memphis International Blues Challenge!

"POST-PANDEMIC" BLUES...

“New York Blues” can be described like the global phenomenon that it is: edgy, honest and one-of-a-kind.

From Lionel Hampton to Ruth Brown …from Michael Hill to King Solomon Hicks — New York can claim its own unique blues experience.

BLUES PEOPLE is a NY/NJ blues band featuring...KELTON COOPER (vocals/guitar), MIKE GRIOT (bass), RON THOMPSON (keys) and GENE LAKE (drums). Early comparisons to the Meters, Luther Allison, Keb Mo' and Buddy Guy are starting to roll in!

Having released two promotional singles in 2022 ("The Skin I'm In" and "Troubled Times"), the band has independently released its 2024 debut album "The Skin I'm In".

These seasoned veterans have certainly paid their dues; as individual side men, they have supported a who’s-who of touring “A-listers”, including Sue Foley, Josh Smith, Kool & the Gang, Ruf’s Blues Caravan Bo Diddley, Jr. and Michael Hill’s Blues Mob… just to name a few.

Blues People musically explores the effects of the blues on modern American culture on many universal levels... and is a modern chronicle of four "real-life blues brothers" living in THIS time in America... while surviving the NY/NJ-Metro urban landscape.

BLUES PEOPLE WINS THE NJBS/INTERNATIONAL BLUES CHALLENGE!! ​ BLUES PEOPLE was born during the pandemic… but the band members have authentically lived their truths - as lifelong working musicians, producers and recording artists for over 30 years.

After taking the NY-metro area by storm for 3 years with their incredible shows and musicianship, the band recently won the North Jersey Blues Society International Blues Challenge… and (in their very first attempt) made the SEMIFINALS in the 2024 Memphis International Blues Challenge!

These amazing musicians will play two sets at 7:00 and 9:15, seating times are 6:15 and 8:45 for each performance, respectively. No music charge, $40 food & drink minimum per person. Reservations strongly recommended. 973.822.2899

"POST-PANDEMIC" BLUES...

“New York Blues” can be described like the global phenomenon that it is: edgy, honest and one-of-a-kind. From Lionel Hampton to Ruth Brown …from Michael Hill to King Solomon Hicks — New York can claim its own unique blues experience.

BLUES PEOPLE is a NY/NJ blues band featuring...KELTON COOPER (vocals/guitar), MIKE GRIOT (bass), RON THOMPSON (keys) and GENE LAKE (drums). Early comparisons to the Meters, Luther Allison, Keb Mo' and Buddy Guy are starting to roll in!

Having released two promotional singles in 2022 ("The Skin I'm In" and "Troubled Times"), the band has independently released its 2024 debut album "The Skin I'm In".

These seasoned veterans have certainly paid their dues; as individual side men, they have supported a who’s-who of touring “A-listers”, including Sue Foley, Josh Smith, Kool & the Gang, Ruf’s Blues Caravan Bo Diddley, Jr. and Michael Hill’s Blues Mob… just to name a few.

Blues People musically explores the effects of the blues on modern American culture on many universal levels... and is a modern chronicle of four "real-life blues brothers" living in THIS time in America... while surviving the NY/NJ-Metro urban landscape.

BLUES PEOPLE WINS THE NJBS/INTERNATIONAL BLUES CHALLENGE!! ​ BLUES PEOPLE was born during the pandemic… but the band members have authentically lived their truths - as lifelong working musicians, producers and recording artists for over 30 years.

After taking the NY-metro area by storm for 3 years with their incredible shows and musicianship, the band recently won the North Jersey Blues Society International Blues Challenge… and (in their very first attempt) made the SEMIFINALS in the 2024 Memphis International Blues Challenge!

Come join us at South Valley BBQ and Lounge for an unforgettable live music Brunch in the Blue Room. Every Sunday, Gregory Burrus Productions in concert with South Valley BBQ will bring the best local and regional live music bands to the SVBBQ Blue Room.

Experience soulful live music, indulge in mouthwatering Sunday Brunches, and delight in delicious drinks, including the South Valley BBQ and Lounge signature Blue Room Mimosa.

We want to provide you with a delectable, wonderful Sunday Brunch and an incredible, engaging live music experience. From Jazz to RnB to Blues to Country and more, we will have something for everyone’s musical taste. Theses live music concerts will be full blown concerts not just background elevator music. Prepare to join us for full blown live music concerts.

"POST-PANDEMIC" BLUES... “New York Blues” can be described like the global phenomenon that it is: edgy, honest and one-of-a-kind.

From Lionel Hampton to Ruth Brown …from Michael Hill to King Solomon Hicks — New York can claim its own unique blues experience.

BLUES PEOPLE is a NY/NJ blues band featuring...KELTON COOPER (vocals/guitar), MIKE GRIOT (bass), RON THOMPSON (keys) and GENE LAKE (drums). Early comparisons to the Meters, Luther Allison, Keb Mo' and Buddy Guy are starting to roll in!

Having released two promotional singles in 2022 ("The Skin I'm In" and "Troubled Times"), the band has independently released its 2024 debut album "The Skin I'm In".

These seasoned veterans have certainly paid their dues; as individual side men, they have supported a who’s-who of touring “A-listers”, including Sue Foley, Josh Smith, Kool & the Gang, Ruf’s Blues Caravan Bo Diddley, Jr. and Michael Hill’s Blues Mob… just to name a few.

Blues People musically explores the effects of the blues on modern American culture on many universal levels... and is a modern chronicle of four "real-life blues brothers" living in THIS time in America... while surviving the NY/NJ-Metro urban landscape.

BLUES PEOPLE WINS THE NJBS/INTERNATIONAL BLUES CHALLENGE!! ​ BLUES PEOPLE was born during the pandemic… but the band members have authentically lived their truths - as lifelong working musicians, producers and recording artists for over 30 years.

After taking the NY-metro area by storm for 3 years with their incredible shows and musicianship, the band recently won the North Jersey Blues Society International Blues Challenge… and (in their very first attempt) made the SEMIFINALS in the 2024 Memphis International Blues Challenge!

"The New Sound of NYC/North Jersey Blues"

“New York Blues” can be described like the global phenomenon that it is: edgy, honest and one-of-a-kind. From Lionel Hampton to Ruth Brown …from Michael Hill to King Solomon Hicks — New York can claim its own unique blues experience.

BLUES PEOPLE is a NY/NJ blues band featuring...KELTON COOPER (vocals/guitar), MIKE GRIOT (bass), RON THOMPSON (keys) and GENE LAKE (drums). Early comparisons to the Meters, Luther Allison, Keb Mo' and Buddy Guy are starting to roll in!

Having released two promotional singles in 2022 ("The Skin I'm In" and "Troubled Times"), the band has independently released its 2024 debut album "The Skin I'm In".

These seasoned veterans have certainly paid their dues; as individual side men, they have supported a who’s-who of touring “A-listers”, including Sue Foley, Josh Smith, Kool & the Gang, Ruf’s Blues Caravan Bo Diddley, Jr. and Michael Hill’s Blues Mob… just to name a few.

Blues People musically explores the effects of the blues on modern American culture on many universal levels... and is a modern chronicle of four "real-life blues brothers" living in THIS time in America... while surviving the NY/NJ-Metro urban landscape.

BLUES PEOPLE WINS THE NJBS/INTERNATIONAL BLUES CHALLENGE!! ​ BLUES PEOPLE was born during the pandemic… but the band members have authentically lived their truths - as lifelong working musicians, producers and recording artists for over 30 years.

After taking the NY-metro area by storm for 3 years with their incredible shows and musicianship, the band recently won the North Jersey Blues Society International Blues Challenge… and (in their very first attempt) made the SEMIFINALS in the 2024 Memphis International Blues Challenge!

Admission: $20.00 JSJBF Members: $15.00 Presented by The Jersey Shore Jazz & Blues Foundation All donations go toward JSJBF Scholarship Funds

"POST-PANDEMIC" BLUES...

“New York Blues” can be described like the global phenomenon that it is: edgy, honest and one-of-a-kind. From Lionel Hampton to Ruth Brown …from Michael Hill to King Solomon Hicks — New York can claim its own unique blues experience.

BLUES PEOPLE is a NY/NJ blues band featuring...KELTON COOPER (vocals/guitar), MIKE GRIOT (bass), RON THOMPSON (keys) and GENE LAKE (drums). Early comparisons to the Meters, Luther Allison, Keb Mo' and Buddy Guy are starting to roll in!

Having released two promotional singles in 2022 ("The Skin I'm In" and "Troubled Times"), the band has independently released its 2024 debut album "The Skin I'm In".

These seasoned veterans have certainly paid their dues; as individual side men, they have supported a who’s-who of touring “A-listers”, including Sue Foley, Josh Smith, Kool & the Gang, Ruf’s Blues Caravan Bo Diddley, Jr. and Michael Hill’s Blues Mob… just to name a few.

Blues People musically explores the effects of the blues on modern American culture on many universal levels... and is a modern chronicle of four "real-life blues brothers" living in THIS time in America... while surviving the NY/NJ-Metro urban landscape.

BLUES PEOPLE WINS THE NJBS/INTERNATIONAL BLUES CHALLENGE!! ​ BLUES PEOPLE was born during the pandemic… but the band members have authentically lived their truths - as lifelong working musicians, producers and recording artists for over 30 years.

After taking the NY-metro area by storm for 3 years with their incredible shows and musicianship, the band recently won the North Jersey Blues Society International Blues Challenge… and (in their very first attempt) made the SEMIFINALS in the 2024 Memphis International Blues Challenge!

“New York Blues” can be described like the global phenomenon that it is: edgy, honest and one-of-a-kind. From Lionel Hampton to Ruth Brown …from Michael Hill to King Solomon Hicks — New York can claim its own unique blues experience.

BLUES PEOPLE is a NY/NJ blues band featuring...KELTON COOPER (vocals/guitar), MIKE GRIOT (bass), RON THOMPSON (keys) and GENE LAKE (drums). Early comparisons to the Meters, Luther Allison, Keb Mo' and Buddy Guy are starting to roll in!

Having released two promotional singles in 2022 ("The Skin I'm In" and "Troubled Times"), the band has independently released its 2024 debut album "The Skin I'm In".

These seasoned veterans have certainly paid their dues; as individual side men, they have supported a who’s-who of touring “A-listers”, including Sue Foley, Josh Smith, Kool & the Gang, Ruf’s Blues Caravan Bo Diddley, Jr. and Michael Hill’s Blues Mob… just to name a few.

Blues People musically explores the effects of the blues on modern American culture on many universal levels... and is a modern chronicle of four "real-life blues brothers" living in THIS time in America... while surviving the NY/NJ-Metro urban landscape.

BLUES PEOPLE WINS THE NJBS/INTERNATIONAL BLUES CHALLENGE!! ​ BLUES PEOPLE was born during the pandemic… but the band members have authentically lived their truths - as lifelong working musicians, producers and recording artists for over 30 years.

After taking the NY-metro area by storm for 3 years with their incredible shows and musicianship, the band recently won the North Jersey Blues Society International Blues Challenge… and (in their very first attempt) made the SEMIFINALS in the 2024 Memphis International Blues Challenge!

"The New Sound of NYC/North Jersey Blues" -- VALENTINE'S DAY SHOW!

“New York Blues” can be described like the global phenomenon that it is: edgy, honest and one-of-a-kind. From Lionel Hampton to Ruth Brown …from Michael Hill to King Solomon Hicks — New York can claim its own unique blues experience.

BLUES PEOPLE is a NY/NJ blues band featuring...KELTON COOPER (vocals/guitar), MIKE GRIOT (bass), RON THOMPSON (keys) and GENE LAKE (drums). Early comparisons to the Meters, Luther Allison, Keb Mo' and Buddy Guy are starting to roll in!

Having released two promotional singles in 2022 ("The Skin I'm In" and "Troubled Times"), the band has independently released its 2024 debut album "The Skin I'm In".

These seasoned veterans have certainly paid their dues; as individual side men, they have supported a who’s-who of touring “A-listers”, including Sue Foley, Josh Smith, Kool & the Gang, Ruf’s Blues Caravan Bo Diddley, Jr. and Michael Hill’s Blues Mob… just to name a few.

Blues People musically explores the effects of the blues on modern American culture on many universal levels... and is a modern chronicle of four "real-life blues brothers" living in THIS time in America... while surviving the NY/NJ-Metro urban landscape.

BLUES PEOPLE WINS THE NJBS/INTERNATIONAL BLUES CHALLENGE!! ​ BLUES PEOPLE was born during the pandemic… but the band members have authentically lived their truths - as lifelong working musicians, producers and recording artists for over 30 years.

After taking the NY-metro area by storm for 3 years with their incredible shows and musicianship, the band recently won the North Jersey Blues Society International Blues Challenge… and (in their very first attempt) made the SEMIFINALS in the 2024 Memphis International Blues Challenge!

These amazing musicians will play two sets at 7:00 and 9:15, seating times are 6:15 and 8:45 for each performance, respectively. No music charge, $40 food & drink minimum per person. Reservations strongly recommended. 973.822.2899

"The New Sound of NYC/North Jersey Blues"

“New York Blues” can be described like the global phenomenon that it is: edgy, honest and one-of-a-kind. From Lionel Hampton to Ruth Brown …from Michael Hill to King Solomon Hicks — New York can claim its own unique blues experience.

BLUES PEOPLE is a NY/NJ blues band featuring...KELTON COOPER (vocals/guitar), MIKE GRIOT (bass), RON THOMPSON (keys) and GENE LAKE (drums). Early comparisons to the Meters, Luther Allison, Keb Mo' and Buddy Guy are starting to roll in!

Having released two promotional singles in 2022 ("The Skin I'm In" and "Troubled Times"), the band has independently released its 2024 debut album "The Skin I'm In".

These seasoned veterans have certainly paid their dues; as individual side men, they have supported a who’s-who of touring “A-listers”, including Sue Foley, Josh Smith, Kool & the Gang, Ruf’s Blues Caravan Bo Diddley, Jr. and Michael Hill’s Blues Mob… just to name a few.

Blues People musically explores the effects of the blues on modern American culture on many universal levels... and is a modern chronicle of four "real-life blues brothers" living in THIS time in America... while surviving the NY/NJ-Metro urban landscape.

BLUES PEOPLE WINS THE NJBS/INTERNATIONAL BLUES CHALLENGE!! ​ BLUES PEOPLE was born during the pandemic… but the band members have authentically lived their truths - as lifelong working musicians, producers and recording artists for over 30 years.

After taking the NY-metro area by storm for 3 years with their incredible shows and musicianship, the band recently won the North Jersey Blues Society International Blues Challenge… and (in their very first attempt) made the SEMIFINALS in the 2024 Memphis International Blues Challenge!

NEW VENUE ALERT!! Come share a stylish "Blues Brunch" with one of the HOTTEST NY-Blues bands in the country!

THIS IS THE 'MUST GO" EVENT OF THE WINTER IN 2024!! [SOIBF -- Revisited!!]

New York City-based Blues guitarist Popa Chubby joins forces with Asbury Park Music Awards winner Billy Hector and North Jersey’s 2023 International Blues Challenge winners Blues People for three hours of Blues on the SOPAC Mainstage.

Throughout his almost 30-year career, Popa Chubby has developed a unique style that he describes as “the Stooges meets Buddy Guy, Motorhead meets Muddy Waters, and Jimi Hendrix meets Robert Johnson.” Billy Hector has 14 albums to his name and has been praised as “A New Jersey state treasure” by New Jersey Stage. Blues People, led by SOPAC Creative Community Brain Trust Music member Mike Griot, is a SOMA staple perfecting the New York Blues’ edgy, honest, and one-of-a-kind sound.

Don’t miss this historic reunion concert featuring the best of Mike Griot’s legendary South Orange International Blues Festival at SOPAC!

The South Orange International Blues Festival has attracted tens of thousands of music lovers for a decade... and has featured the very best regional and international blues performers — to the thrill of appreciative audiences every year. It has been our pleasure an honor to showcase “America’s Classical Music: THE BLUES”, and all of the talented artists who dedicate themselves to its legacy and preservation. We are commemorating this legendary event by supporting the return of the bluesfest to its South Orange roots!

SOPAC will host a full afternoon and evening of great live blues... old friends... and great memories we've all shared over the years! Dig up your favorite SOIBF T-shirt (any year)... and SAVE THE DATE for this unforgettable Blues Reunion!

Congratulations to BLUES PEOPLE for winning the 2023-2024 INTERNATIONAL BLUES CHALLENGE (Northern NJ)... and their upcoming appearance at the IBC International competition in Memphis!

BLUES PEOPLE are the IINTERNATIONAL BLUES CHALLENGE CHAMPIONS from North Jersey!! The IBC will be held January 16 – 20, 2024 on Beale Street in Memphis, Tennessee!
https://blues.org/ibc-lodging/

Congratulations to BLUES PEOPLE for winning the 2023-2024 INTERNATIONAL BLUES CHALLENGE (Northern NJ)... and their upcoming appearance at the IBC International competition in Memphis!

"POST-PANDEMIC" BLUES

“New York Blues” can be described like the global phenomenon that it is: edgy, honest and one-of-a-kind. From Lionel Hampton to Ruth Brown …from Michael Hill to King Solomon Hicks — New York can claim its own unique blues experience.

BLUES PEOPLE is a NY/NJ blues band featuring...KELTON COOPER (vocals/guitar), MIKE GRIOT (bass), RON THOMPSON (keys) and GENE LAKE (drums). Early comparisons to the Meters, Luther Allison, Keb Mo' and Buddy Guy are starting to roll in!

Having released two promotional singles in 2022 ("The Skin I'm In" and "Troubled Times"), the band is busy in the studio finishing up their much-anticipated 2023 debut album "Troubled Times".

These seasoned veterans have certainly paid their dues; as individual side men, they have supported a who’s-who of touring “A-listers”, including Sue Foley, Josh Smith, Kool & the Gang, Ruf’s Blues Caravan and Michael Hill’s Blues Mob… just to name a few.

Blues People musically explores the effects of the blues on modern American culture on many universal levels... and is a modern chronicle of four "real-life blues brothers" living in THIS time in America... while surviving the NY/NJ-Metro urban landscape.

Hotel and Ticket information will be available on October 1, 2023

The International Blues Challenge represents the worldwide search for blues bands and solo/duo blues performers ready for the international stage, yet just needing that extra big break. The world’s largest gathering of blues musicians will take place on Beale Street, with over 20 clubs hosting the challengers and fans. In addition to featuring these final rounds of the prestigious blues music competition, the IBC event week will offer seminars, showcases, master classes, film screenings, networking events, book signings, and receptions for blues societies, fans, and professionals.

IBC/MEMPHIS-PREVIEW SHOW!! “...This music is what I think NYC Blues sounds like TODAY...” - JOURNALIST/GUITARIST DAVE FIELDS : BIG CITY RHYTHMN & BLUES MAGAZINE

BLUES PEOPLE was born during the pandemic… but the band members have authentically lived their truths - as lifelong working musicians, producers and recording artists for over 30 years. After taking the NY-metro area by storm for 3 years with their incredible shows and musicianship, the band recently won the North Jersey Blues Society International Blues Challenge… and are now heading to Memphis in January to showcase alongside some of the best blues bands from around the world!

BLUES PEOPLE is a NY/NJ blues band featuring...KELTON COOPER (vocals/guitar), MIKE GRIOT (bass), RON THOMPSON (keys) and GENE LAKE (drums). Early comparisons to the Meters, Luther Allison, Keb Mo' and Buddy Guy are starting to roll in!Having released two promotional singles in 2022 ("The Skin I'm In" and "Troubled Times"), the band is busy in the studio finishing up their much-anticipated 2023 debut album "Troubled Times".

These seasoned veterans have certainly paid their dues; as individual side men, they have supported a who’s-who of touring “A-listers”, including Sue Foley, Josh Smith, Kool & the Gang, Ruf’s Blues Caravan and Michael Hill’s Blues Mob… just to name a few.

Blues People musically explores the effects of the blues on modern American culture on many universal levels... and is a modern chronicle of four "real-life blues brothers" living in THIS time in America... while surviving the NY/NJ-Metro urban landscape.

Congratulations to BLUES PEOPLE for winning the 2023-2024 INTERNATIONAL BLUES CHALLENGE (Northern NJ)... and their upcoming appearance at the INC International competition in Memphis!

"POST-PANDEMIC" BLUES

“New York Blues” can be described like the global phenomenon that it is: edgy, honest and one-of-a-kind. From Lionel Hampton to Ruth Brown …from Michael Hill to King Solomon Hicks — New York can claim its own unique blues experience.

BLUES PEOPLE is a NY/NJ blues band featuring...KELTON COOPER (vocals/guitar), MIKE GRIOT (bass), RON THOMPSON (keys) and GENE LAKE (drums). Early comparisons to the Meters, Luther Allison, Keb Mo' and Buddy Guy are starting to roll in!

Having released two promotional singles in 2022 ("The Skin I'm In" and "Troubled Times"), the band is busy in the studio finishing up their much-anticipated 2023 debut album "Troubled Times".

These seasoned veterans have certainly paid their dues; as individual side men, they have supported a who’s-who of touring “A-listers”, including Sue Foley, Josh Smith, Kool & the Gang, Ruf’s Blues Caravan and Michael Hill’s Blues Mob… just to name a few.

Blues People musically explores the effects of the blues on modern American culture on many universal levels... and is a modern chronicle of four "real-life blues brothers" living in THIS time in America... while surviving the NY/NJ-Metro urban landscape.

PRIVATE PARTY*********

Congratulations to BLUES PEOPLE for winning the 2023-2024 INTERNATIONAL BLUES CHALLENGE (Northern NJ)... and their upcoming appearance at the IBC International competition in Memphis!

"POST-PANDEMIC" BLUES

“New York Blues” can be described like the global phenomenon that it is: edgey, honest and one-of-a-kind. From Lionel Hampton to Ruth Brown …from Michael Hill to King Solomon Hicks — New York can claim its own unique blues experience.

BLUES PEOPLE is a NY/NJ blues band featuring...KELTON COOPER (vocals/guitar), MIKE GRIOT (bass), RON THOMPSON (keys) and GENE LAKE (drums). Early comparisons to the Meters, Luther Allison, Keb Mo' and Buddy Guy are starting to roll in!

Having released two promotional singles in 2022 ("The Skin I'm In" and "Troubled Times"), the band just released their much-anticipated 2023 debut album "The Skin I'm In".

These seasoned veterans have certainly paid their dues; as individual side men, they have supported a who’s-who of touring “A-listers”, including Sue Foley, Josh Smith, Kool & the Gang, Ruf’s Blues Caravan and Michael Hill’s Blues Mob… just to name a few.

Blues People musically explores the effects of the blues on modern American culture on many universal levels... and is a modern chronicle of four "real-life blues brothers" living in THIS time in America... while surviving the NY/NJ-Metro urban landscape.

2023-2024 IBC Champions BLUES PEOPLE perform at the North Jersey Blues Society annual fundraiser concert! Congratulations to BLUES PEOPLE for winning the 2023-2024 INTERNATIONAL BLUES CHALLENGE (Northern NJ)... and their upcoming appearance at the IBC International competition in Memphis!

"POST-PANDEMIC" BLUES

“New York Blues” can be described like the global phenomenon that it is: edgey, honest and one-of-a-kind. From Lionel Hampton to Ruth Brown …from Michael Hill to King Solomon Hicks — New York can claim its own unique blues experience.

BLUES PEOPLE is a NY/NJ blues band featuring...KELTON COOPER (vocals/guitar), MIKE GRIOT (bass), RON THOMPSON (keys) and GENE LAKE (drums). Early comparisons to the Meters, Luther Allison, Keb Mo' and Buddy Guy are starting to roll in!

Having released two promotional singles in 2022 ("The Skin I'm In" and "Troubled Times"), the band is busy in the studio finishing up their much-anticipated 2023 debut album "Troubled Times".

These seasoned veterans have certainly paid their dues; as individual side men, they have supported a who’s-who of touring “A-listers”, including Sue Foley, Josh Smith, Kool & the Gang, Ruf’s Blues Caravan and Michael Hill’s Blues Mob… just to name a few.

Blues People musically explores the effects of the blues on modern American culture on many universal levels... and is a modern chronicle of four "real-life blues brothers" living in THIS time in America... while surviving the NY/NJ-Metro urban landscape.

Congratulations to BLUES PEOPLE for winning the 2023-2024 INTERNATIONAL BLUES CHALLENGE (Northern NJ)... and their upcoming appearance at the IBC International competition in Memphis!

"POST-PANDEMIC" BLUES

“New York Blues” can be described like the global phenomenon that it is: edgey, honest and one-of-a-kind. From Lionel Hampton to Ruth Brown …from Michael Hill to King Solomon Hicks — New York can claim its own unique blues experience.

BLUES PEOPLE is a NY/NJ blues band featuring...KELTON COOPER (vocals/guitar), MIKE GRIOT (bass), RON THOMPSON (keys) and GENE LAKE (drums). Early comparisons to the Meters, Luther Allison, Keb Mo' and Buddy Guy are starting to roll in!

Having released two promotional singles in 2022 ("The Skin I'm In" and "Troubled Times"), the band is busy in the studio finishing up their much-anticipated 2023 debut album "Troubled Times".

These seasoned veterans have certainly paid their dues; as individual side men, they have supported a who’s-who of touring “A-listers”, including Sue Foley, Josh Smith, Kool & the Gang, Ruf’s Blues Caravan and Michael Hill’s Blues Mob… just to name a few.

Blues People musically explores the effects of the blues on modern American culture on many universal levels... and is a modern chronicle of four "real-life blues brothers" living in THIS time in America... while surviving the NY/NJ-Metro urban landscape.

“New York Blues” can be described like the global phenomenon that it is: edgy, honest and one-of-a-kind. From Lionel Hampton to Ruth Brown …from Michael Hill to King Solomon Hicks — New York can claim its own unique blues experience.

BLUES PEOPLE is a NY/NJ blues band featuring...KELTON COOPER (vocals/guitar), MIKE GRIOT (bass), RON THOMPSON (keys) and GENE LAKE (drums). Early comparisons to the Meters, Luther Allison, Keb Mo' and Buddy Guy are starting to roll in!

Having released two promotional singles in 2022 ("The Skin I'm In" and "Troubled Times"), the band is busy in the studio finishing up their much-anticipated 2023 debut album "The Skin I'm In". ​

These seasoned veterans have certainly paid their dues; as individual side men, they have supported a who’s-who of touring “A-listers”, including Sue Foley, Josh Smith, Kool & the Gang, Ruf’s Blues Caravan and Michael Hill’s Blues Mob… just to name a few.

Blues People musically explores the effects of the blues on modern American culture on many universal levels... and is a modern chronicle of four "real-life blues brothers" living in THIS time in America... while surviving the NY/NJ-Metro urban landscape.

BLUES PEOPLE WINS THE NJBS/INTERNATIONAL BLUES CHALLENGE!! BLUES PEOPLE was born during the pandemic… but the band members have authentically lived their truths - as lifelong working musicians, producers and recording artists for over 30 years.

After taking the NY-metro area by storm for 3 years with their incredible shows and musicianship, the band recently won the North Jersey Blues Society International Blues Challenge… and are now heading to Memphis in January to showcase alongside some of the best blues bands from around the world!

Celebrate the debut of the 2023-2024 season with Mike Griot, Blues People and Special Guest Artists as we present "BLUES, ROOTS and BBQ in the LOFT"!

Bring your friends and family together in The Loft at SOPAC for an intimate evening of world-class Blues and Roots music. With the doors opening an hour before showtime for a BBQ dinner in The Loft, each performance in this series will take audiences on a journey through the evolution of Blues music. The first evening in this brand new series features the “King of the Keys” and three-time Blues Music Award nominee David Keyes, and North Jersey’s 2023 International Blues Challenge winner Blues People.

Congratulations to BLUES PEOPLE for winning the 2023-2024 INTERNATIONAL BLUES CHALLENGE (Northern NJ)... and their upcoming appearance at the IBC International competition in Memphis!

"POST-PANDEMIC" BLUES

“New York Blues” can be described like the global phenomenon that it is: edgey, honest and one-of-a-kind. From Lionel Hampton to Ruth Brown …from Michael Hill to King Solomon Hicks — New York can claim its own unique blues experience.

BLUES PEOPLE is a NY/NJ blues band featuring...KELTON COOPER (vocals/guitar), MIKE GRIOT (bass), RON THOMPSON (keys) and GENE LAKE (drums). Early comparisons to the Meters, Luther Allison, Keb Mo' and Buddy Guy are starting to roll in!

Having released two promotional singles in 2022 ("The Skin I'm In" and "Troubled Times"), the band is busy in the studio finishing up their much-anticipated 2023 debut album "Troubled Times".

These seasoned veterans have certainly paid their dues; as individual side men, they have supported a who’s-who of touring “A-listers”, including Sue Foley, Josh Smith, Kool & the Gang, Ruf’s Blues Caravan and Michael Hill’s Blues Mob… just to name a few.

Blues People musically explores the effects of the blues on modern American culture on many universal levels... and is a modern chronicle of four "real-life blues brothers" living in THIS time in America... while surviving the NY/NJ-Metro urban landscape.