GA-20 has been leading the revival of traditional Blues since 2018, blending raw electric Blues with Rock ‘n’ Roll and Country influences. Founded by guitarist Matthew Stubbs (a longtime sideman of Charlie Musselwhite), the Boston-based trio—featuring guitarist/vocalist Cody Nilsen and drummer Josh Kiggans—channels the gritty spirit of legends like Hound Dog Taylor, Howlin’ Wolf, and Otis Rush. Known for their vintage gear, live-off-the-floor recording style, and relentless touring, GA-20 delivers a sound that’s both timeless and fresh. The band has topped the Billboard Blues Chart three times, earned multiple Blues Music Award nominations, and won four Boston Music Awards.

Black Joe Lewis and his band, the Honeybears, burst onto the national scene over a decade ago with raw, unfiltered soul, blues, and garage rock. Critics questioned whether they’d paid their dues—Joe proved them wrong. With explosive live shows channeling the spirit of James Brown, Lightnin’ Hopkins, and the MC5, Joe honed a gritty, deeply American sound that defies hype or trend.