Check Them Out…Great On Video But You’ll See Them Live Up Close And Personal In January In Mexico.
In Winter Rock ‘n Blues Paradise. That’s Tequila Rock ‘n Blues Explosions Festival January 19-27, 2024. Events in Zihuatanejo, in Ixtapa and in Troncones. Also at Playa Linda, near Ixtapa on January 21 in the afternoon. Tickets on sale now here on this site.
The Videos (Shorts-1 Minute)
Part 1:
Part 2:
Full Length Videos (Approx. 6 minutes):
Part 1;
Part 2:
We Get Better And Better For 2024!
Please Note The English Full Text Version Follows The PDF Downloads Below. Spanish version available below.
English Version y Espanol September 13, 2023 Release-Communica de Prensa For Download
Media Release
September 13, 2023, Our Contact Info (Social Media At End)
Contact: Bob Rempel, Managing Chairperson. Residence & Office Address: Ixtapa-Zihua, Mexico.
Phone/W.A:+52 755 101 5989 Emails: tequilabluesfest@gmail.com & bobrempel@gmail.com
Website: https://tequilabluesrock.com FB: https://www.facebook.com/tequilabluesfests/
Summary Overview (And Yes We Do Bury The Lead😃 A Mortal Sin)
The Paraiso Society Ixtapa & Zihuatanejo & Region presents the Tequila Rock ‘n Blues Explosions Festival and our new Generations Unite theme in Zihuatanejo and Ixtapa and region on January 19-28, 2024.
We Just Got “Better and Better”, Our Key Words For 2024.
Announcing 5 Additional Performers, In Addition To Our July 6 Announcement Of Performers And The First Weekend Dates And Locations. (See Poster Image For First Weekend At End)
Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo Tourists, Visitors and Local Folks Who Want To Put Some Or A Lot Of Rockin’ and Bluesin Into Their Magical Experiences In Paraiso, Will Benefit Even More.
Today We Announce:
A Full Creedence/CCR/John Fogerty Concert And Full Fest Participation By The Lead Vocalist of Canada’s Most Successful CCR Tribute Band, Gil Gaidola, (mystichighwayband.com) and
Our First (of many more in the future) International Blues-Rock Recording Artist Performer, Bex Marshall of London, England, Starts Her “Bex Is Back” USA Tour In Mexico With Us, To Promote Her New Album, Which Will Be Released In Late 2023 (bexmarshall.com),
We’re Also Adding One Of Mexico’s Best Young Pop Rock and Blues Voices, Steffie Beltt, from Mexico City with four albums to her credit already, (steffiebeltt.com or F.B. @steffiebelttoficial) plus
Norbert Aguilar of Morelia, Mexico, an outstanding classic rock voice that we first briefly heard in 2023, returns with concept sets involving AC-DC music and The Beatles at Shea Stadium 1965.
That’s Just The Icing On The “Better and Better” Fest Cake. Drum Roll Now Please!
Today We Are Very Pleased To Announce That Our Second, World-Class, World Renowned Blues and Rock Guitarist Chris Duarte, of Austin, Texas, USA, Will Join Us To Headline Our Second Weekend Of Events. He will join us starting January 22. (duarterocks.com) Similarly to Joanna Connor, he brings his great talent on the guitar and vocals, and his Big Heart to support our Fundraising Causes and have fun in the sun with old and new fans.
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Austin-based guitarist, songwriter, and singer Chris Duarte has often been compared with the late Stevie Ray Vaughan. It’s heady stuff for the musician, who plays a rhythmic style of Texas blues-rock that is at times reminiscent of Vaughan’s sound, and at other times reminiscent of Johnny Winter. The truth is, Duarte has his own sound that draws on elements of jazz, blues, and rock & roll. Duarte is a six-time Blues Music Award nominee and has released 15 albums over the course of his career. His latest album, “Ain’t Giving Up,” was released in April 2023 and has been met with critical acclaim. The album features a mix of blues, rock, and soul, and showcases Duarte’s virtuosic guitar playing and expressive vocals.
Here’s “Nobody But You” official music video from his latest album. Great rockabilly sound showing the versatility that we will see on stage. From Jimi Hendrix to Stevie Ray to Eddie Van Halen to uniquely Chris, it’s all there in one package.
Here’s “Big Legged Woman” one of Chris’s most popular original songs, at the Dallas International Guitar Festival earlier this year. https://youtu.be/mH_-23DyWlE?si=YWSWPP88Kocqdlm5
Our Other World Renowned Blues and Rock Guitarist and Vocalist Joanna Connor Is Coming To Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo to be with us from opening night January 19 through the 22nd. She also has 15 recorded albums to her credit, the most recent being “Best of Me” from earlier in 2023
She has earlier agreed with us to take time out of her busy regular gig schedule to be a Big Heart Performer leader in helping us launch our “Better and Better” 3-year plan and major new fundraising campaign for a Multi-Purpose Facility for the communities and region that would house a street animal rescue facility with a focus on senior animals, a music training for talented disadvantaged youth plus a performance stage and films theatre. (See below) for artist renditions of the new Facility for Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo and region that we hope to have all necessary funds in place after our 2026 Events.)
An Artist’s Rendition Of A Possible Future Facility With Offices, Film Theatre, And Shelter In Front, Performance Venue In Back.
All our other great talented performers for 2024 are also coming with equal intensity to support our 2024-2026 campaign and help us build Better and Better Fests that can help make more positive contributions to the community.
Big Heart Performers, Great Talent you can only see once or a few times, and Tequila Rock ‘n Blues Explosions in sunny Mexico near the beaches in cold January everywhere else…a perfect combination we feel.
Our Full List Of Big Talent, Big-Hearted Performers For 2024:
Announced Today:
Chris Duarte, Austin, Texas (https://duarterocks.com) Bex Marshall, London, England (https://bexmarshall.com), Steffie Beltt, Mexico City, Mx (https://www.facebook.com/SteffieBelttOficial/) Gil Gaidola, Hamilton, Canada (https://mystichighwayband.com), Norbert Aguilar, Morelia, Mexico (https://www.facebook.com/NorbertBones)
Gallery and videos and additional linkages below and on our website.
Previously announced on July 6 were:
Joanna Connor, Chicago, USA, (https://joannaconnorwreckingcrew.com) Reggie King Sears, Fort Lauderdale, USA (https://www.reggiekingsears.com/) Marianna Gajma, Mexico City (https://marianagajma.com/), Trebor Villa (https://www.instagram.com/treborvilla/), America Hernandez (https://www.facebook.com/america.hernandez.96780), and Kristel Rodriguez (https://www.instagram.com/kristellrodriguezbajista/) all of Morelia, Mexico.
Event Dates Are Now Set As Well. Tickets With Table Reservation Privileges (selection of table seating in order of purchase) for the January 22 to 27 Dates Are Now On Sale. https://tequilabluesrock.com/festivaltickets/
More announcements and final details on all events are planned for October 11, four weeks from today.
January 22, La Grande Fundraising Dinner/Cena and Concert (see also full website post…we’ll find a better name soon, we promise) at Madana Bar and Restaurant in Zihuatanejo. Black and White Themed Dress Up Suggested But Not Required. Special 1.5 Concert Style show by Gil Gaidola presenting the music of John Fogerty and Creedence Clearwater Revival. Special one-night-only collaborations by Joanna Connor and Chris Duarte. Only on the 22 when Chris joins us. Other collaborations with Bex Marshall and Reggie King Sears and many others.
Plus A Magic Bus ride in the afternoon to go “Happy Hour Sunsettin” at La Mexicana in Troncones with Live Music by Fest Performers, then return for the private Evening Dinner and Concert. Price Includes Bus, Full Chef Jonathon supervised special dinner with wine-2 main course options, fest merch swag bag, tequila mezcal samplers in abundance, and great fun music starting from the moment the Bus hits the highway until the end of the night Bring your drinks of choice for the bus trip.
Note: All Fundraising Dinner Purchasers (VIP or Reserved Packages) Will Be Recognized With Permanent Legacy Signage At The New Facility We Are Raising Funds For, Special Front Rows Seating, And Event Recognition, As Our Guests For The Opening Ceremonies’ And First Event At The New Facility)
January 24, Meet and Greet Festival Performers Week 2, and Happy Hour Live Music Acoustic…featuring Gil Gaidola, Canada, with the music of Gordon Lightfoot, Jimmy Buffett in loving memory, plus many others, as well as other Fest. Performers (Free with donations and tips requested please. Food and drink purchases required if seated at a venue table) Venue To Be Announced Shortly.
January 25, Troncones, La Mexicana venue. Our new regional Venue partner. Second weekend opening night. A special Bob Dylan music opening set by Trebor Villa of Morelia only in Troncones. Plus much more. Approximately 4.5-5 hours of live music. All Festival Performers. Chris Duarte and Trebor Villa will also present a special set of Jimi Hendrix music among other highlights. Hear Chris on Jimi Hendrix’s Hey Joe: https://fb.watch/m_IbtkeXzE/ A Special Fund Will Be Created From Ticket Sales (100 pesos per ticket sold) And 50-50 Draws or Auctions Of Donated Prizes That Will Stay In The Community To Support Local Causes Including Animal Rescue Work And More.
January 26, Zihuatanejo, Madana Bar and Restaurant, Zihua Centro, All second-weekend performers. Featuring Gil Gaidola twice. An opening live electro-acoustic plus another set of full CCR/John Fogerty music from their full catalogue. An extended set. Plus Many Special Collaborations.
January 27, Ixtapa, Ricardo’s Restaurant at Villas Paraiso Hotel. Features Bex Marshall’s “Songs Of My Life”…Music That Inspired Me In London, England” Set plus Steffie Beltt, with her “Long Cool Woman In A Black Dress” set with the music of the 50s through to Today’s Hits, as part of our Generations Unite theme.
Other Events Are In The Planning Stage With Details To Be Announced on October 11:
Guitar Clinic for Youth and New Guitarists lead by Joanna Connor and Bex Marshall and others, and Guitar Clinic by Chris Duarte and Bex Marshall, Twice.
Writers Workshop and Rockin’ Your Kitchen and up close and personal Bex Marshall unplugged accompanied by Jonathon Ramsay, presenting material from their successful workshops in England. (See also the website: https://bexmarshall.com)
The Moments with Chris Duarte or Joanna Connor Experience. For a single donation of $100 USD or Peso Equivalent, (which includes 1 VIP front section ticket for the show) guitarists of all ages and experience can get up on stage at one of our nightly or afternoon shows and get 10 minutes on stage going back and forth with guitar licks and jams. The video recordings for family and friends and online sharing will be priceless.
Chef Jonathon: Professional London, England Chef Supervised Fundraising Dinner plus all venues will benefit from his oversight and assistance to the excellent local staff to ensure the Festival food is the best it can be for our fan members.
Run Through The Jungle…Run, Walk, Bike, Just Do It! Not The CCR Song But Related. To Playa Linda and Back…Or Just A Small Part Of It. Without Or Without Your Pets.
3 On 3 Basketball and Foul Shot Shooting…Preview Our New 2025 Events
Show Us What You’ve Got Stage Setting Up The Front Of House Stage At Madana Bar and Restaurant Zihuatanejo. For Local Groups To Perform For The Public. Developing Youth Groups or Performers From Our Region Given Priority.
For The Other September 13-15 News Releases With More Details And Videos On Our Other New Performers, And More Information On Our January 22 Special Fundraising Dinner and Concert And “Magic We’re Going Sunsettin’ Bus” Experience Please Visit Our Website: https://tequilabluesrock.com
For The July 6 News Release Announcing Our First Weekend Please Follow This Link: https://tequilabluesrock.com/announcing-2024-the-performers-the-better-better-fests-plan-the-news-release-to-all-media-and-fans-everywhere-its-go-mexico-go-ixtapa-zihuatanejo-time-once-again-soon/
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Images:
Events Logo
Additional Performance Video Links:
Joanna Connor: “Shake Your Money Maker” – Joanna Connor and The Wrecking Crew – Live from The Fallout Shelter Reggie King Sears: Reggie King Sears- All The Kings Horses Marianna Gajma: Mariana Gajma – Warm (CDMX, Gato Fest 2022 – May 15, 2022) Trebor Villa: Trebor Villa Of Morelia, Mexico With The Music Of The Early Bob Dylan Bex Marshall: Bex Marshall – The House of Mercy Steffie Beltt: Steffie Beltt – La Raíz (Mi Generación) Steffie Beltt – Te Dedico Este Blues Gil Gaidola/Mystic Highway Band: https://youtu.be/Q8bScW9CtrY?si=fd_R1Jzvy4nAQX4V
The CCR-Fogerty Song List (Which Ones Will You Be Requesting?)
Backgrounder:
The Vision and Action Plan (download on the website) also outlines other changes and improvements that are scheduled to be made in 2025 and 2026.
Tequila Rock ‘n Blues Explosions Festival presents classic rock ‘n blues ‘n rockabilly ‘n boogie woogie music from the 50s, 60s, 70s and 80s primarily, the Music of our Lives we call it, on the last two weekends of January, for visitors to Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo Mexico from everywhere. The first Fest was held in 2018 and has been held every year in Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo since, except for Covid caused shutdowns in 2021 and 2022. All events have been fundraising events organized by volunteers. All events have operated with cash flow only from ticket sales and the help of local partners. No other subsidies or support said Rempel. “It’s the true test of events like this…Do they want it, If you build it will they come” For the community impact of events to date, search “community” on our website https://tequilabluesrock.com. “We were not satisfied that we have done enough for the community, so with “Better and Better Vision and Plan” you see our commitment to creating a new significant impact on this community in the next 3 years and beyond,” stated Rempel.
The new Generations Unite Festival…The Festival for Peace, Love, Understanding, Kindness and Mother Earth (short name: Generations Unite Fest) will offer a wider selection of music that will appeal to a wide variety of folks, including folk-rock, country rock, country, reggae, jazz-rock, pop and more, but always with a fun atmosphere that visitors and locals love for a night or afternoon out.
The Paraiso Society is a small ad hoc group of volunteers from Canada, the USA, and Mexico who love the still-too-hidden paradise of Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo and the region whose mission is to create fun, destination-worthy events with entertainment and entertainers from Mexico, Canada, USA and the U.K., that are unique to the area, while supporting local causes such as street animal rescue, youth development, and creating a lasting legacy. The Society has also organized other events in Mexico City in the past, and will continue to be open to establishing similar events in other tourism-focused communities where the right partnerships are available.
For Online Tickets To All Events and Reserved Tables (up to 7:30 pm or by special arrangement) Selection In Order Of Purchase please go to our Festival Tickets page on our Website. https://tequilabluesrock.com/festivaltickets/ (Please Note First Weekend Reservation Privileges Ends September 12 at Midnight, Second Week Events Reservation Privileges End October 10 Midnight)
For media or partnership inquiries, please contact Bob Rempel, Organizing Committee Chairperson, with contact details on top.
Social Media: Facebook, (Fan Page) Twitter Youtube Channel Spotify 2024 Music Coming Soon.
What Fans Say:
2024 It’s Winter Rock and Blues Paradise Again
Artistic Representation of Future Facility 1
Artistic Representation of Future Facility 2
Additional Performer Photos:
Gil Gaidola:
Bex Marshall:
Steffie Beltt:
Norbert Aguilar:
Chris Duarte
You don’t have to go to Romania to see bada** Reggie…he’ll be rockin’ our Mexico stages in January when it’s Tequila Rock ‘n Blues Explosions Fest time again. Check out this new just published video from Romania just published.
Wow! Just Wow! So glad we’ve got him in our Lineup for you.
That’s January 19-22, 2023 in Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, Mexico. Bada** Performer on stage. Great guy up close and personal. Making new fans and friends everywhere he goes around the world. We’re Tequila Rock ‘n Blues Explosions Fest 2024. The “Better and Better” Fests For The Causes!
Tickets Now With Table Reservation Privileges at Festival Tickets here on this Site.
See Joanna Connor live in Mexico. Truly world-class blues rock guitar and vocals. Big Heart!
Yes, our plans are to create the first such Senior-aged animal-focused Shelter in Mexico. Maybe worldwide. Plus it will serve as a multi-purpose centre serving the community in several ways. Our vision is to include a School of Rock-Blues-Jazz and support for talented disadvantaged youth, a Performance Stage that can house intimate to medium-sized events of all types throughout the year, and a Film/Movies Theatre for future Film Festivals. Click on the Yellow image to the top right of this page to get more details of all of our Vision and Future Plans for 2024-2026.
Check Out All 9 On Our Website here, or our Facebook Page (like the Page to follow new Posts) or our Youtube Channel (Subscribe and you’ll be notified when new ones are posted).
Guess The Song And The Performer From The Opening Riff. Test Your Rock Knowledge. Check If You Like the Kind Of Music You’ll Hear Live In Mexico, in the warmth, by the beaches, Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo and Region on January 18-28, 2024, when it’s cold almost everywhere else in the world.
Here’s The Latest Name That Tune:
WHAT THEY SAY ABOUT REGGIE
“This young man is one bad motherf***er (on stage)” Buddy Guy
“One of the top guitarists in the world.” G. Love, G. Love and Special Sauce
“Reggie is the future. If my prayers are answered, I will see him be a big star.” Solomon Burke
“Reggie Sears in the real deal. He has been around long before me and is truly the real deal. Check him out he is amazing.” Christone “Kingfish” Ingram
“A great talent.” Roland Orzabal, Tears For Fears
Reggie at Buddy Guy’s Legend Blues Club in Chicago
Reggie Bio (from the official website: reggiekingsears.com)
Former child prodigy Soul-Blues guitarist, singer-songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist REGGIE KING SEARS is back in 2023 with a new album aptly titled “Back In The Game” that expands on his signature down-home Blues, Rhythm & Blues and Southern Soul sound with deeper Funk and Neo-Soul grooves that will satisfy his fan-base while reaching a larger and younger crowd.
Sears, now 31, has spent most of his life as a professional musician, became a mainstay on the Blues festival circuit and has received praise and earned respect from legends and contemporaries alike.
Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame inductee Blues legend Buddy Guy called him a “bad motherf*cker”; Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame Inductee Solomon Burke called him “the future” and dubbed him the new “King of Rock’n’Soul”; Noodles (lead guitarist and founding member of 40x platinum band The Offspring) said Reggie is “one of the best Blues guitarists of his generation”; G. Love (G. Love and Special Sauce) has named Sears “one of the top guitarists in the world”; Roland Orzabal (lead singer of multi-million selling Tears For Fears) called Sears a “great talent”; and Christone “Kingfish” Ingram simply called Sears “the real deal”.
Hailing from Fort Lauderdale, FL, Sears is the son of an African American/Native American mother and a Caucasian father and is an example of the melting pot of culture that is South Florida. Raised in a low-income area in Fort Lauderdale’s inner-city has no-doubt informed his tough, soulful Funky Blues sound.
Shortly after playing his first gig on his 12th birthday, Sears met and befriended legendary guitarist Hubert Sumlin who taught and mentored him. Further encouragement from B.B. King who told the young man to “Keep on picking young man and keep this music alive” confirmed that he was on the right track.
Sears paid his dues by touring the South’s so-called Chittlin’ Circuit of ghetto bars, juke joints, and blues festivals Sears became a bona-fide entertainer, capable of dazzling audiences with his guitar skills, exciting them with his soulful vocals, engaging them with his natural stage presence and amazing them with his showmanship.
In 2005 at age 14 he released his debut album Transitions to rave reviews and began his first of many national tours. In 2006 he became an honorary member of The James Brown Band when he was only 15, becoming the youngest to do so.
By age 20 he had released 4 albums, racking up three top-charting #1 radio hits on the Southern Soul and Blues charts, multiple top 20 radio hits, winning multiple music awards, playing with a who’s who of legends and stars and racking up thousands of miles on the road.
Sears has racked up three #1 Southern Soul radio hits with “Dip My Dipper”(2007), “You Betrayed Me”(2009) and Dirty Dancer (2010), won multiple music awards and shared the stage with a who’s who of legends and stars such as Buddy Guy, Solomon Burke, Pinetop Perkins, The Temptations, G. Love and Special Sauce, Christone “Kingfish” Ingram and many more.
Sears’ enormous talents and ability to effortless blend multiple styles of Blues, Southern Soul, Funk, Neo-Soul and Hip Hop and weave them into a Rhythm and Blues fusion that ensures that he will continue to grow his fan-base and bring in a new, younger audience while pleasing traditional Blues fans.
Get Tickets To See Reggie and all our other Great Headliners and Performers For Our First Weekend, January 18-22, 2024 Now. Ticket Purchase Link On This Site Here. A Very Special U.K. Headliner That We Have Just Been Able To Confirm Is Still To Be Announced. Some Performers Will Continue With Us Through To January 28, 2024. And New Ones Will Join Us. Great Live Music Always We Promise!
Reggie at Ground Zero Blues Club, New York City
Only For Those Ready To Get Wise At Or Near The Beach In The Warmth With Great Live Music By Top Shelf Performers. Advance Tickets with Reserved Table Privileges In Order Of Purchase (Until September 27 When We Make Our Final Announcements And Add Performers) Available Right Here On Site: https://tequilabluesrock.com/festivaltickets/
Tickets For Opening Weekend, With Reserved Tables Reservation Privileges Selling Fast. Buy Festival Tickets Here Online On Our Website: (Link to) Festival Tickets. Tickets for January 22 through January 28 go on sale September 27 after we announce the Performers and Schedule.
The Kind Of Music We Love At Our Fest…We Promise The Upbeat, The Uptempo, The Dance Music, The Fun…Oh And Tequila & Mezcal Sampling Too! Just Two Playlists That Feature Many Of The Songs You May Hear When You Come To Mexico, To Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo And Region And Join The Party, Join The Fiesta. All For A Great Cause. Our Big Fundraising Project Detailed Elsewhere On This Site.
Uptempo Blues and Blues Rock
Old Time Rock ‘n Roll ‘n Blues Rock 50’s, 60’s, 70’s & 80’s…Even A Little 90’s & 2000 Decades.
Like The Music, Like To Have Fun When You’re At The Beach Enjoying The Warmth. Tickets And Table Reservations (Selection In Order Of Purchase) On Sale Now Here On This Site: Go To Festival Tickets. (Link) 3 Events On Sale Now. 2nd Weekend And A Big Fundraising Night Show Will Go On Sale By October 1 At The Same Time We Announce Additional Performers. Follow Us On Our Facebook Fan Page Or Here On This Site For All Details
It will be daily on our Social Media Fan Page and in weekly format here on our website. Starting end of Summer when all thoughts turn to how we’re going to rock our winter. Months away for you or just a great week or two of sun and beach. We’ve got the answer for you here in Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, Mexico during the last two weeks of January. We’re back January 18-29, 2024.
Also a good example of a customized Social Media campaign we offer and provide our 2024-2026 Fest Partners, in English or Spanish. Among other benefits for a great partnership.
Perfect For Sharing and Saving. This Is Top Flight Big Stage A Grade Talent Folks. Guitars, Vocals, Performance, and More. Maybe The Best We’ve Ever Had At Our Fest. And We’ve Got More We Can Add Soon. You Don’t Have To Take Our Word For It. Check Out Their Performance Videos Here On Our Site And On YouTube. Tickets With Table Reservation Privileges On Sale Now. Table Reservations On A First Come First To Choose Basis.
Or here’s something a little more generic that will look great on some merch.
Please Note: Text Version in English and Spanish After PDF Downloads
Download PDF. The July 6, 2023 Release For 2024 In English
Descargar en Español PDF
Full Text News Release July 6, 2023 for January 18-28, 2024-Texto completo en español a continuación
The Paraiso Society presents the Tequila Rock ‘n Blues Explosions Festival and our new Generations Unite Fest on January 18-28, 2024.
World Renowned Blues and Rock Guitarist and Vocalist Joanna Connor Coming To Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo To Help Launch The Group’s “Better and Better” 3 Year Plan And Major New Fundraising Campaign For A Music Training For Youth And Animal Rescue Multi-Purpose Facility For The Region.
July 6, 2023 Our Contact Info (Social Media At End)
Contact: Bob Rempel, Managing Chairperson. Residence & Office Address: Ixtapa-Zihua, Mexico.
Phone/W.A:+52 755 101 5989 Emails: tequilabluesfest@gmail.com & bobrempel@gmail.com
Website: https://tequilabluesrock.com FB: https://www.facebook.com/tequilabluesfests/
(July 6: Ixtapa Zihuatanejo, Mexico) Live rock and blues music events are returning to Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, in Mexico, after a strong 2023 relaunch with sold-out shows. The organizing committee has a new 3-year “Better and Better” plan for the Fests, which will see the events raising funds for a major new facility in the Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo community or nearby region, for street animals, musical education for youth, and live music performances.
Advance Tickets and Table Reservations for 2024 are now on sale at the Fest’s website:
The all-volunteer Paraiso Society organizing group is thrilled to announce the new 2024 version of our unique Festival, which will be an important destination event for the Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo region for tourism from everywhere at that time of year. “It’s cold everywhere else, ”we say in our marketing, “you need to be in Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo for some warm weather live music fun with highly regarded performers from around the world, that you won’t see anywhere else in Mexico.”
The always rockin’,’ Always a fun event features rock, blues, and boogie-woogie music and more, world-class guitars and vocals, fun and lots of dancing, and now new support for a great New Cause and Project for the community.
1-Minute Promo Video Headliners With Music On YouTube 2024/ Direct Link: Our YouTube Channel:
Headlining the 2024 Performers will be Joanna Connor of Chicago, USA, https://www.joannaconnorwreckingcrew.com acknowledged by all as the Queen of Blues-Rock Guitar and Vocals who performs at all the top Festivals;’ four in July 2023 alone- 2 USA and 2 Europe ,(full Joanna Connor bio also on our website) and
Reggie “King” Sears, of Fort Lauderdale, USA, https://www.reggiekingsears.com/ a child prodigy, now a world-class blues and rock guitarist and vocals. He is performing at both USA and European Festivals as well in 2023.
Mexico will be well represented. with vibrant vocalist Mariana Gajma of Mexico City https://marianagajma.com/ and Morelia performers being announced today. Trebor Villa, @treborvilla Instagram, rock and folk rock guitarist and vocalist will present the music of Jimi Hendrix and the folk-rock music of Bob Dylan, and be part of the “All-Star” Band from Morelia that will present Classic Rock favorites. The band also includes Kristel Rodriguez on bass guitar and vocals (@krisroad3 Facebook) and America Hernandez on drums (@america.hernandez.96780 Facebook). All three from Morelia were at our 2023 Fest and were crowd favorites.
All evening events are 5 hours of almost nonstop live music.
“This just gets us started, so you know the high talent quality level of the performers for 2024,” said Bob Rempel, the event chairperson. We’ll have more great complementary performers to announce for January 2024 from about September 15-October 1. A special headline performer just for a big Fundraising Dinner and Show on January 22 will also be announced.
In addition, showing our strong commitment to building a stronger viable event that will attract more and more visitors to the region, we are now announcing excellent internationally known performers that have agreed to perform at our 2025 event during the last two weekends of January. These include Steve Marriner of Canada, lead singer, guitarist, and harmonica of Monkey Junk, an internationally well-known blues-rock group, and a solo performer. Couldn’t perform in 2024 because of a co-headlining tour with fellow Canadian Colin James in the USA, so we’re very pleased to have him come and perform for us in 2025. From Mexico City, a blues rock band, formed 14 years ago, Ensamble Ardiente, will be performing. Younger, up-and-coming performers that you see first are always a priority of our programming, so In addition, 21-year-old blues-rock guitar and vocalist Trey Vanwig of Sarasota, Florida, and 21-year-old Dylan Triplett, blues and soul vocalist from St. Louis, Missouri. More will be announced for 2025 next July 2024.
Steve Marriner
After a very successful relaunch of the events in 2023, the Paraiso Society organizers decided to commit seriously to “Better and Better Festivals and Events” and create an important Community Legacy. Our detailed “Better and Better” Vision and Action Plan for 2024-2026 for the Paraiso Society’s Rockin’ Fun Festivals (available to all for download at (https://tequilabluesrock.com) includes a major new commitment to raising funds to build or renovate a facility for Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo and region, with a target of completion by 2026 end of the year, that will:
1) create a unique Animal Rescue shelter for the entire region with a special focus on senior dogs and cats and providing them treatment, care, and the quality of life they deserve too;
2) create a special music education program, a “School of Rock and Blues” it could be called, with facilities and equipment and training, and special support for disadvantaged youth and;
3) a Performance Stage with all the necessities that could hold events by the Youth Performers or even our own Festival Events. Meetings rooms and a Film Theatre for our future Film Festival are also in the plans.
The vision and action plan also states that we are committed to building our local and national Partnerships over the next 3 years. We are pleased to announce today our first 3-year partnership agreement with the new luxury Luana Suites of Playa la Ropa, Zihuatanejo https://luana.mx This will involve their generous donation of a prize(s) for fundraising, accommodations for future performers, and additional Festival events at their location such as this year’s Meet and Greet-Open House at their location on Friday afternoon January 19.
Partnerships in transportation, accommodations, food and beverage, and tourism both local and national are of particular interest to us so we can support and offer more options to the growing number of tourists and performers that will attend our Events, said Rempel the chairperson. “Let’s Talk and help build the region, help build your business and image and help us build better events that will attract more tourists and locals to you and us”, he said.
Music is truly a major part of the Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo experience for visitors and locals as the Washington Post article said a year or so ago, Bob Rempel stated.
“Taking place from January 18-28, 2024, and the last two weekends of future years, the unofficial Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo Rocks Week with both the Tequila Rock and Blues Explosion Festival and the new Generations Unite Festival (Generations United for Peace, Love, Understanding, Kindness, and Mother Earth) will help further transform Ixtapa-Zihuataenjo into a vibrant hub of cultural immersion, artistic expression, and joyful festivities.” “With its rich history and diverse community, and now “Magical” tourist status Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo and region serve as an ideal backdrop for this one-of-a-kind event that embraces the spirit of fun in paradise, with flavors of Mexico everywhere and hearts open widely to do more for the community at the same time”, Rempel stated.
Throughout the festival, attendees will have the opportunity to indulge in a wide array of related unforgettable experiences and moments we call them. The Better and Better Vision and Action Plan 2024-2026 also highlights several improvements and changes for 2024 Events. Here are some highlights of what’s new for 2024-2026!
Dates and Venues: (As of July 5, 2023)
-January 19 afternoon: Meet and Greet and Live Music from Fest Performers. At Fest Partner, Luana Suites, Playa La Ropa Zihuatanejo.
-January 19 Festival Opening Night (Canada Night Theme) at Madana Bar and Restaurant, Zihuatanejo, 6;00 pm. Reserved Table program in effect.
-January 20 Festival at Ricardo’s Restaurante and Bar, Ixtapa (USA Night Theme) 6:00 pm start. New Music, New Sets. Reserved Table program in effect
-January 21 (Mexico Afternoon Theme) at Coco Ixtapa Beach Club at Playa Linda, Spanish and English Rock and Blues. Reserved Table program in effect
-January 22 Special Fundraising Dress Up-Dress Down Dinner, Show and Dance- With Special New Performer Guest Plus Fest Performers. (Location To Be Announced)
January 23-28: 2-3 More Events as part of our spin-off Fest: Generations Unite…The Festival for Peace, Love, Understanding and Mother Earth
The Vision and Action Plan (download on website) also outlines other changes and improvements that are scheduled to be made in 2025 and 2026.
Tequila Rock ‘n Blues Explosions Festival presents classic rock ‘n blues ‘n rockabilly ‘n boogie woogie music from the 50s, 60s, 70s, and 80s primarily, the Music of our Lives we call it, on the last two weekends of January, for visitors to Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo Mexico from everywhere. The first Fest was held in 2018 and has been held every year in Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo since except for Covid caused shutdowns in 2021 and 2022. All events have been fundraising events organized by volunteers. All events have operated with cash flow only from ticket sales and the help of local partners. No other subsidies or support said Rempel. “It’s the true test of events like this…Do they want it, If you build it will they come” For the community impact of events to date, search “community” on our website https://tequilabluesrock.com. “We were not satisfied that we have done enough for the community, so with “Better and Better Vision and Plan” you see our commitment to creating a new significant impact on this community in the next 3 years and beyond,” stated Rempel.
The new Generations Unite Festival…The Festival for Peace, Love, Understanding, Kindness and Mother Earth (short name: Generations Unite Fest) will offer a wider selection of music that will appeal to a wide variety of folks, including folk-rock, country rock, country, reggae, jazz-rock, pop and more, but always with a fun atmosphere that visitors and locals love for a night or afternoon out.
The Paraiso Society is a small ad hoc group of volunteers from Canada, the USA, and Mexico who love the still-too-hidden paradise of Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo and the region whose mission is to create fun, destination-worthy events with entertainment and entertainers from Mexico, Canada, USA, and the U.K., that are unique to the area, while supporting local causes such as street animal rescue, youth development, and creating a lasting legacy. The Society has also organized other events in Mexico City in the past and will continue to be open to establishing similar events in other tourism-focused communities where the right partnerships are available.
For Online Tickets To All Events and Reserved Tables (up to 7:30 pm or by special arrangement) Selection In Order Of Purchase please go to our Festival Tickets page on our Website. https://tequilabluesrock.com/festivaltickets/
For media or partnership inquiries, please contact Bob Rempel, Organizing Committee Chairperson, with contact details on top.
Social Media: Facebook, (Fan Page) Twitter Youtube Channel Spotify 2024 Music Coming Soon.
Logo & More Images Below:
(More Below)
Espanol-In Spanish:
La Sociedad Paraíso presenta el Festival de Explosiones de Tequila Rock ‘n Bluesy nuestro nuevoFestival de unión de generaciones del 18 al 28 de enero de 2024.
Guitarrista y vocalista de blues y rock de renombre mundialJuana ConnorLlegando a Ixtapa y Zihuatanejo para ayudar a lanzar el plan de 3 años “Cada vez mejor” del grupo y una nueva e importante campaña de recaudación de fondos para un entrenamiento musical para jóvenes y un centro de usos múltiples para el rescate de animales en la región.
6 de julio, 2023Nuestra información de contacto (redes sociales al final)
Contacto: Bob Rempel, Presidente Ejecutivo. Dirección de Residencia y Oficina: Ixtapa-Zihua, México.
Teléfono/W.A:+52 755 101 5989 Correos electrónicos:tequilabluesfest@gmail.com &bobrempel@gmail.com
Sitio web:https://tequilabluesrock.com PENSIÓN COMPLETA:https://www.facebook.com/tequilabluesfests/
(6 de julio: Ixtapa Zihuatanejo, México) Los eventos de música rock y blues en vivo regresan a Ixtapa y Zihuatanejo, en México, después de un fuerte relanzamiento en 2023 con espectáculos con entradas agotadas. El comité organizador tiene un nuevo mandato de 3 años.“Mejor y mejor”plan para los Fests, que verá los eventos recaudando fondos para una nueva e importante instalación en la comunidad de Ixtapa y Zihuatanejo o región cercana, para animales callejeros, educación musical para jóvenes y presentaciones de música en vivo.
Las Entradas Anticipadas y Reservas de Mesas para 2024 ya están a la venta en la web del Fest:
Eltotalmente voluntario El grupo organizador de Paraiso Society se complace en anunciar la nueva versión 2024 de nuestro exclusivoFestival, el cual será un evento de destino importante para la región de Ixtapa y Zihuatanejo para el turismo de todas partes en esa época del año. “Hace frío en cualquier otro lugar”, decimos en nuestro marketing, “tienes que estar en Ixtapa y Zihuatanejo para disfrutar de música en vivo en un clima cálido con artistas de renombre de todo el mundo, que no verás en ningún otro lugar de México”.
el siemprerockeando, ‘Siempre un evento divertido que presenta música rock, blues y boogie-woogie y más, guitarras y voces de clase mundial, diversión y mucho baile, y ahora nuevo apoyo para una gran Nueva Causa y Proyecto para la comunidad.
1 minuto Cabezas de cartel de video promocional con música en YouTube 2024/ Enlace directo: Nuestro canal de YouTube:
Los artistas principales de 2024 seránJoanna Connor de Chicago, EE. UU.,https://www.joannaconnorwreckingcrew.com reconocido por todos como elReina del Blues-Rock Guitarra y Vozque se presenta en todos los festivales principales; cuatro en julio de 2023 solo: 2 en EE. UU. y 2 en Europa (la biografía completa de Joanna Connor también está en nuestro sitio web) y
Reggie “King” Sears, de Fort Lauderdale, EE. UU.,https://www.reggiekingsears.com/ un niño prodigio, ahora un guitarrista y vocalista de blues y rock de clase mundial. Actuará en festivales de EE. UU. y Europa también en 2023.
México estará bien representado. con vibrante vocalista Mariana Gajma de la Ciudad de México https://marianagajma.com/ y los artistas de Morelia se anunciarán hoy.Villa Trevor, guitarrista y vocalista de rock y folk rock presentará la música de Jimi Hendrix y la música folk-rock de Bob Dylan, y formará parte de la Banda “All-Star” de Morelia que presentará los favoritos del Rock Clásico. La banda también incluyeKristel Rodriguez en el bajo y la voz yAmerica Hernandezen tambores Los tres de Morelia estuvieron en nuestro Fest 2023 y fueron los favoritos del público.
Todos los eventos nocturnos son 5 horas de música en vivo casi sin parar.
Joanna Connor (below)
“Esto solo nos sirve para comenzar, para que conozcan el alto nivel de calidad de talento de los artistas para 2024”, dijo Bob Rempel, presidente del evento. Tendremos más grandes artistas complementarios para anunciar para enero de 2024 desde aproximadamente el 15 de septiembre hasta el 1 de octubre. También se anunciará un artista principal especial solo para una gran cena y espectáculo de recaudación de fondos el 22 de enero.
Además, mostrando nuestro fuerte compromiso de construir un evento más sólido y viable que atraiga a más y más visitantes a la región, ahora anunciamos excelentes artistas de renombre internacional que aceptaron actuar en nuestro evento 2025 durante los dos últimos fines de semana de enero. Éstas incluyenSteve Marriner de Canadá, cantante principal, guitarrista y armónica de Monkey Junk, un grupo de blues-rock de renombre internacional, y solista. No pudo presentarse en 2024 debido a una gira conjunta con su compatriota canadiense Colin James en los EE. hace años que,Ensamble Ardiente, estará actuando. Los artistas más jóvenes y prometedores que ves primero son siempre una prioridad de nuestra programación, por lo que además, el guitarrista y vocalista de blues-rock de 21 añostrey vanwig de Sarasota, Florida, y de 21 añosDylan Triplet, vocalista de blues y soul de St. Louis, Missouri. Se anunciarán más para 2025 el próximo julio de 2024.
Steve Marriner
Luego de un relanzamiento muy exitoso de los eventos en 2023, los organizadores de Paraiso Society decidieron comprometerse seriamente con “Better and Better Festivals and Events” y crear una importanteClegado de la comunidad. Nuestro detalladoVisión y Plan de Acción “Cada vez mejor” para 2024-2026para los festivales Rockin’ Fun de Paraiso Society (disponible para descargar en (https://tequilabluesrock.com) incluye un nuevo compromiso importante para recaudar fondos para construir o renovar una instalación para Ixtapa y Zihuatanejo y la región, con un objetivo de finalización para fines de año en 2026, que:
1) crear un refugio de rescate de animales único para toda la región con un enfoque especial en perros y gatos mayores y brindarles el tratamiento, la atención y la calidad de vida que también merecen;
2) crear un programa especial de educación musical, una “Escuela de Rock y Blues” podría llamarse, con instalaciones y equipamiento y formación, y apoyo especial para jóvenes desfavorecidos y;
3) un Escenario de Actuación con todas las necesidades que podrían albergar eventos de los Jóvenes Intérpretes o incluso nuestros propios Eventos del Festival. También están en proyecto salas de reuniones y una Sala de Cine para nuestro futuro Festival de Cine.
La visión y el plan de acción también establece que estamos comprometidos a construir nuestra comunidad local y nacional.Asociaciones durante los próximos 3 años. Nos complace anunciar hoy nuestro primer acuerdo de asociación de 3 años con el nuevo lujoLuana Suites of Playa la Ropa, Zihuatanejo https://luana.mx Esto implicará su generosa donación de premio(s) para la recaudación de fondos, alojamiento para futuros artistas y eventos adicionales del Festival en su ubicación, como el de este año.Meet and Greet-Open House en su ubicación el viernes 19 de enero por la tarde.
Las alianzas en transporte, alojamiento, alimentos y bebidas, y turismo tanto local como nacional son de particular interés para nosotros para que podamos apoyar y ofrecer más opciones al creciente número de turistas y artistas que asistirán a nuestros Eventos, dijo el presidente de Rempel. “Hablemos y ayudemos a construir la región, ayude a construir su negocio e imagen y ayúdenos a construir mejores eventos que atraigan a más turistas y lugareños hacia usted y hacia nosotros”, dijo.
La música es verdaderamente una parte importante de la experiencia de Ixtapa y Zihuatanejo para visitantes y lugareños, ya que laArtículo del Washington Postdijo hace aproximadamente un año, dijo Bob Rempel.
“Del 18 al 28 de enero de 2024 y los dos últimos fines de semana de años futuros, el evento no oficialIxtapa and Zihuatanejo Rocks Week con el Tequila Rock and Blues Explosion Festival y el nuevo Generations Unite Festival (Generaciones Unidas por la Paz, el Amor, la Comprensión, la Bondad y la Madre Tierra) ayudarán a transformar aún más a Ixtapa-Zihuataenjo en un centro vibrante de inmersión cultural, expresión artística y festividades alegres.” “Con su rica historia y comunidad diversa, y ahora estatus turístico “Mágico” Ixtapa y Zihuatanejo y regiónatender como telón de fondo ideal para este evento único que abraza el espíritu de diversión en el paraíso, con sabores de Méxicoen todos lados y los corazones se abren ampliamente para hacer más por la comunidad al mismo tiempo”, afirmó Rempel.
A lo largo del festival, los asistentes tendrán la oportunidad de disfrutar de una amplia gama de experiencias y momentos inolvidables relacionados, como los llamamos.La mejor y mejor visión y plan de acción 2024-2026también destaca varias mejoras y cambios para los eventos de 2024. ¡Aquí hay algunos aspectos destacados de las novedades para 2024-2026!
Fechas y lugares: (a partir del 5 de julio de 2023)
-19 de enero por la tarde: Meet and Greet y Live Music de Fest Performers. En Fest Partner, Luana Suites, Playa La Ropa Zihuatanejo.
-19 de enero Noche de Apertura del Festival (Tema de la Noche de Canadá) en Madana Bar and Restaurant, Zihuatanejo, 6:00 pm. Programa Mesa Reservada vigente.
-20 de enero Festival en Ricardo’s Restaurante and Bar, Ixtapa (Noche Temática USA) 6:00 pm inicio. Nueva música, nuevos conjuntos. Programa Mesa Reservada vigente
-21 de enero (Tema Tarde México) en Coco Ixtapa Beach Club en Playa Linda, Rock and Blues en español e inglés. Programa Mesa Reservada vigente
-22 de enero Especial para recaudar fondos: Cena formal, espectáculo y baile para recaudar fondos – Con invitados especiales para nuevos artistas e intérpretes del festival. (Ubicación por anunciar)
23-28 de enero: 2-3 eventos más como parte de nuestro Festival derivado: Generations Unite… El Festival por la Paz, el Amor, la Comprensión y la Madre Tierra
La Visión y el Plan de acción (descarga en el sitio web) también describe otros cambios y mejoras que están programados para realizarse en 2025 y 2026.
Festival de Explosiones de Tequila Rock ‘n Blues presenta rock ‘n blues’ n rockabilly ‘n boogie woogie clásicomúsica desde elaños 50,años 60,años 70 yaños 80 principalmente, la Música de Nuestras Vidas la llamamos, los dos últimos fines de semana de enero, para los visitantes de Ixtapa y Zihuatanejo México de todas partes. El primer Fest se llevó a cabo en 2018 y se ha llevado a cabo todos los años en Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo desde entonces, excepto por el cierre causado por Covid en 2021 y 2022. Todos los eventos han sidorecaudación de fondos eventos organizados por voluntarios. Todos los eventos han operado con flujo de efectivo solo de la venta de boletos y la ayuda de socios locales. Ninguna otrasubsidios o apoyar dicho Rempel. “Es la verdadera prueba de eventos como este… ¿Lo quieren? Si lo construyes, ellos vendrán” Para conocer el impacto de los eventos en la comunidad hasta la fecha, busque “comunidad” en nuestro sitio webhttps://tequilabluesrock.com. “Nosotros no estábamos allísatisfecho que hemos hecho lo suficiente por la comunidad, por lo que con “Mejor y mejor visión y plan” ven nuestracompromiso para crear un nuevo impacto significativo en esta comunidad en los próximos 3 años y más allá”, afirmó Rempel.
El nuevo Festival Generations Unite… El Festival por la Paz, el Amor, la Comprensión, la Bondad y la Madre Tierra (nombre corto: Generations Unite Fest)oferta una selección más amplia de música que atraerá aagran variedad de gente, incluyendo folk-rock, country rock, country, reggae,jazz-rock, pop y más, pero siempre con un ambiente divertido que a los visitantes y locales les encanta para una noche o una tarde de fiesta.
La Sociedad Paraíso es un pequeño grupo ad hoc de voluntarios de Canadá, EE. UU. y México que aman el paraíso aún demasiado escondido de Ixtapa y Zihuatanejo y la región cuya misión es crear eventos divertidos y dignos de destino con entretenimiento y animadores. de México, Canadá, EE. UU. y el Reino Unido, que son únicos en el área, mientras apoyan causas locales como el rescate de animales callejeros, el desarrollo de la juventud y la creación de un legado duradero. La Sociedad también ha organizado otros eventos en la Ciudad de México en el pasado y seguirá abierta a establecer eventos similares en otroscentrado en el turismo comunidades donde las asociaciones adecuadas están disponibles.
Para boletos en línea para todos los eventos y mesas reservadas (hasta las 7:30 p. m. o por acuerdo especial) Selección en orden de compra, visite nuestra página de boletos para festivales en nuestro sitio web.https://tequilabluesrock.com/festivaltickets/
Para consultas de medios o asociaciones, comuníquese con Bob Rempel, presidente del comité organizador,condetalles de contacto en la parte superior.
Medios de comunicación social:Facebook, (Página de fans)Gorjeo Canal de Youtube Spotify 2024 Música próximamente.
Logotipo y más imágenes a continuación:
(Más abajo)
A light bulb clicked somewhere this off-season, and we said Why Are We Doing All This If Not To Leave An Strong Lasting Legacy In Every Way?
So “Better and Better”, the 2024-2026 Mission and Action Statement Was Born. See It In Detail Here.
The Powerpoint Slide Version.
The Powerpoint Slide Version Espanol
A Video Version English Language You Can Stop And Start As You Wish
In It You Will Read About Turning Our Dream Project Into Reality Over The Next Years. A Target Of 2026 For Construction To Start:
A Street Animal Rescue And Treatment Centre For Senior Aged Animals…the Most Vulnerable, The Most Unwanted….With A “School Of Rock and Blues” Style Music Education Centre For All Interested Kids, Plus Financial Support For Disadvantaged Kids With Talent….And…Of Course, We Need A Performance Stage And Equipment For Our “School Of Rock and Blues Events” And Our Own Tequila Rock ‘n Blues and “Generations Unite” Events. Yes, We Are Big Dreamers, We Know…Plead Guilty…But Why Try For Less Why Accept Less, Both From Community Resources And Music.
It’s A Living Document. Version 1.0. We’d Love Your Feedback As We Move Toward Versions 2.0 and 3.0 Final Before January 2024.
She is the most talented musical performer you’ll see in Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo region in 2024. Maybe the best guitarist you’ll ever see in Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo. No fear in saying that. (We don’t sell used cars here friends)
We welcome Joanna to Mexico in January 2024. A true musician Big Heart who supports our big Street Animal Rescue Shelter and Musical Education for Disadvantaged Kids projects, who wants to come and have some fun together with us at our Fest. “Tell my fans, old and new, tell future musicians, to come and join in on the great blues rock fun in Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, Mexico”
Bio Summary
Joanna Connor is widely regarded as one of the most talented blues rock guitarists and vocalists in the music industry. She has been praised by fellow performers and fans alike for her incredible musicianship, stage presence, and unique style.
Performance Video: Please Make Sure You Go To About 2 Minutes In To See The Amazing Joanna Connor playing guitar.
Many musicians have expressed their admiration for Joanna Connor’s talents. For example, Joe Bonamassa, a well-known blues rock guitarist, has said that Connor is “a great player and a great singer” and that he is “a big fan.” Buddy Guy, a legendary blues musician, has also praised Connor, saying, “Joanna’s got it all. She can play, she can sing, and she can write.”
Fans of Joanna Connor are equally enthusiastic about her music. On social media platforms such as Twitter and Instagram, fans frequently share videos of her performances and rave about her guitar playing and vocal abilities. Many describe her as a “hidden gem” and express their amazement that she is not more widely recognized in the music industry.
Overall, Joanna Connor is widely respected and admired for her talent and her contributions to the blues rock genre. Whether performing live or recording in the studio, she continues to impress audiences and fellow musicians with her incredible skills and musical vision.
“Music chose me. I vividly recall trying to sing Louis Armstrong’s ‘Hello Dolly’ in our Brooklyn apartment. It came on the radio often. I knew I was small, but when I researched what year this version was on the charts, I was floored by the realization that I was two years old!”
And so, Joanna Connor’s musical odyssey began. The soundtrack of her childhood in her adopted hometown of Worcester, Massachusetts was diverse and bounteous. The Blues was part of the lexicon. Joanna’s favorite record as a child was Taj Mahal’s “Take A Giant Step/ The Old Folks At Home”.
National and International accolades in the press and radio media resulted in a decade of world tours, a dozen recordings on Ruf Records, MC Records, and others, a documentary on Germany’s WDR Television, and a multitude of TV appearances and radio features.
Joanna and the band shared stages with Blues, Rock and Jazz greats, including Luther Allison, BB King, Screaming Jay Hawkins, Robben Ford, Danny Gatton, Robert Cray, Jimmy Page, ZZ Top, Joe Cocker, Etta James, and others.
With a current band of young virtuoso musicians, she dubbed the Wrecking Crew 23′, and fires were started worldwide on stages everywhere. Joanna reached out to one of her most beloved musicians, Mike Zito, and Gulf Coast Records In hopes that this tsunami of musical energy and passion could be unleashed on a record. Joanna Connor and The Wrecking Crew 23′ have found a musical home and place to launch their new record containing all original music. This highly anticipated album was released in the spring of 2023.
Website:
https://www.joannaconnorwreckingcrew.com/
Facebook Fan Page https://www.facebook.com/joannaconnorband/
Feature Article on Joanna from Guitar Player Magazine:
Feature Article on Joanna from Forbes Magazine
More Bio: from Spotify….click link for her music)
Since releasing the aptly titled Believe It! for Blind Pig in 1989, Chicago-based guitarist and singer/songwriter Joanna Connor has revealed herself as a virtuoso stylist in modern electric blues, R&B, and blues-rock. Her take-no-prisoners playing style joins fiery single-string runs to dazzling, rough-and-ready slide guitar pyrotechnics in an approach at once incendiary and deeply soulful. Connor is also an accomplished vocalist and songwriter. 1996’s Big Girl Blues drew accolades for its raw, house-rocking approach. Despite situating her blues approach firmly in the Chicago tradition, Connor is well-versed in the genre’s long history, amply revealed on 1998’s Slidetime. 2002’s Joanna Connor Band moved toward soulful blues-funk. After 2003’s Mercury Blues, she took a 12-year break from studio recording to raise children. In 2016 Connor returned with the globally acclaimed Six String Stories. The funky, horn-drenched soul blues of Rise followed in 2019. In early 2021 she issued the Joe Bonamassa-produced 4801 South Indiana Avenue.
Connor was born in Brooklyn, New York, but at age four her mother moved to Worcester, Massachusetts. She benefitted from her mother’s huge collection of blues and jazz recordings and was taken to see musicians like Taj Mahal, Bonnie Raitt, Ry Cooder, and Buddy Guy in concert. She got her first guitar at age seven and devoted herself to blues and roots rock. At 16, she began singing in Worcester-area bands and formed the Pino/Connor Band with guitarist Ken Pino; they performed at clubs and colleges across New England. In 1984, at age 22, she boarded a Greyhound bus with a one-way ticket to Chicago. She spent her first three weeks in the Windy City haunting clubs and sitting in wherever she could. She approached Lonnie Brooks one evening, and he referred her to his rhythm guitarist Dion Payton. He invited her up to play and she left quite an impression; she was asked to replace Payton after he left. After joining the combo of slide guitar great Johnny Littlejohn a bit later, Payton invited Connor to join his popular 43rd Street Blues Band. Payton, a big draw locally, showcased her talents in prime city clubs such as Kingston Mines, B.L.U.E.S., and the Checkerboard Lounge. Connor set the town’s hallowed blues bars on fire with her slashing lead guitar work, her passionate slide solos, and soul-drenched vocals. With Payton, Connor was regularly featured alongside Chicago legends including James Cotton, Junior Wells, Buddy Guy, and A.C. Reed. She performed with Payton at the 1987 Chicago Blues Festival. Later that year, she was ready to put her own band together.
Her 1989 debut for the Blind Pig label, Believe It! got her out of Chicago clubs and into clubs and festivals around the U.S., Canada, and Europe. From the beginning, Connor proved herself a road warrior, touring on her own, in package revues, and as a hired gun with other artists. 1992’s Fight registered on the blues charts in several countries. 1993’s Living on the Road and Rock and Roll Gypsy (1995) were cross-licensed by Germany’s Ruf Records label; they cemented her reputation as a headliner and radio staple across the continent. 1996’s Big Girl Blues charted in Europe and established her as a formidable singer as well as a guitarist. 1998’s Slidetime showcased her love of R&B and early blues. Nothing But the Blues, was a live recording of a 1999 show in Germany that appeared to rave reviews on the German In-Akustik label in 2001.
After playing in Deborah Coleman‘s bands for I Can’t Lose and Where Blue Begins, Connor left Blind Pig and signed to small indie label M.C. Records in 2002. Her debut, The Joanna Connor Band, found Connor expanding her sound to reflect her many musical interests that included funk, jazz, and soul. She issued Mercury Blues in 2003, a collaborative covers outing with Europe’s Mercury Ensemble, a cross-disciplinary chamber orchestra. Among its most notable selections were readings of Blind Faith‘s Can’t Find My Way Home,” Jimi Hendrix‘s “Manic Depression,” Aretha Franklin‘s “I Never Loved a Man,” and the Beatles, “Within You, Without You.”
Connor played locally while raising her children. She issued the live Unplugged at Carterco with Lance Lewis and appeared with mentor Luther Allison & Friends on Pay It Forward. Other than the self-released Live 24 cut at a Kingston Mines gig (when off the road, she continued to perform there three nights a week), she remained close to home, playing locally and on the summer festival circuit. In 2014, a fan’s live video captured an incendiary portion of her performance at the North Atlantic Blues Festival; it went viral on YouTube. Based on its success, M.C. Records coaxed her back into the studio for 2016’s Six String Stories. The set contained sophisticated originals co-written with longtime bandmate Lance Lewis as well as covers of Jill Scott‘s “Golden” and Elmore James‘ “The Sky Is Crying.” Connor even ventured into soul-gospel with “Heaven,” featuring the Lewis Family on backing vocals.
With her daughter at Indiana University on a basketball scholarship and her son making his way as a musician in the world, Connor hit the road, playing in Asia, Europe, Canada, and the U.S. She returned to M.C. Records for 2019’s Rise. Showcasing a new band, she embraced the stylistic restlessness of Joanna Connor Band and Six String Stories in a program of funky jazz, hard rock, modern blues, and R&B, with a couple of acoustic tracks added for good measure. Among its highlights were “Bad Hand” with Mike Zito, an instrumental cover of Sly Stone’s If You Want Me to Stay,” and the swinging jump jazz of “Joanna in A.” In 2020, Connor signed to Joe Bonamassa‘s Keeping the Blues Alive (KTBA) label. With guitarists Bonamassa and Josh Smith co-producing, Connor entered the Ocean’s Way Studio in Nashville as part of a three-guitar front line with an all-star cast of players who also included keyboardist Reese Wynans and bassist Calvin Turner, and a horn section. The goal was to cut a personal homage to the school of Chicago blues that nurtured her. To that end, she titled the set 4801 South Indiana Avenue — the address of legendary blues club Theresa’s Lounge that existed from 1951 to 1987 on the City’s South Side and was home to the city’s founding blues fathers. The set was announced in January with the issue of the single and video “I Feel So Good.” The ten-song full-length was released in February of 2021. The album debuted at number one on the blues charts.
The Joanna Connor Story (Youtube Video)
2023 Was Great As We Successfully Relaunched With Excellent High Energy Music Over 2 Weekends. It Would Be Hard To Improve On The Talent On Display But We Think We Have.
Here’s Our Present Lineup Of Performers For The First Weekend Of Events-January 18-22, 2024. With Performance Videos. Some Of The Same Performers Will Also Be Performing On The January 24-28 Period. We’ll Announce Additional First Weekend Performers And The Full 2nd Weekend Lineup By October 1.
Joanna Connor: Our 2024 Featured Performer
All The Great Performers We’re Announcing In Phase 1
Performance Videos:
Joanna Connor: Make Sure You Get To About 2 Minutes In If You Want To See What We Mean About Guitar Play
Joanna Connor:
Reggie King Sears-Jammin’ with Christone “Kingfish” Ingram
Reggie King Sears:
Mariana Gajma, now solo performer, and the former lead vocalist of Merian
Trebor Villa: Plays Hendrix, Sings Dylan Too.
Watch For Details About Our January 22, Special Fundraising Dinner & Concert With Festival Performers (Special Headlining Guest(s) For 22 Only) To Be Announced Before October 1.
Our January 2025 Performers Booked To Date: Steve Marriner Canada, Trey Wanvig USA, Ensamble Ardiente, Mexico, Dylan Triplett USA. More Details To Come Of Course By July 2024, But Now You Have A Very Good Idea Of The High Talent Level Set For 2025. That’s What We Mean About Our “Better and Better” Mission and Plan.
Check out Steve Marriner on his recent single release
A possible shirt design and marketing message Inspired by something I heard again recently in the truly enjoyable 2014 music-themed movie “Begin Again”.
Rockstars For Street Animals Hungry and Hurting
Rockstars For Disadvantaged Kids With Great Potential
Rockstars For Peace, Love, Understanding, And Kindness
Rockstars For A Better World
Rockstars For Mother Earth
Rockstars For Family, Friends And Lots of Fun Together In The Sun
Rockstars For Tequila, Mezcal And Mexico…Free Beer Too…if we can get it
They Are Truly “Born To Play”. 2024 & 2025 We’ll Tell You Their Names on July 6 And Kickoff Ticket Sales, Fundraising, and Partnerships.
We Are The January Guitar Festival…And So Much More!
January 18-28, 2024, Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo and Region.
Details Here And On Our Social Accounts:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tequilabluesfests/
Youtube: https://youtube.com@tequilabluesrock
Twitter: https://twitter.com/mxbluesrockfest
We at the Paraiso Society, our ad hoc organizing group, are preparing for 2024 and our marketing campaigns after our Kick Off Announcements. It’s easy when your two best marketing messages for “Why Should I Join You” continue to be the same year after year. You just have to change the dates.
This is Paraiso, Paradise…when it’s cold everywhere else. Hidden maybe, but ready for full discovery. And we bring the Fun, the Rockin’ to Paradise. “Join the Paradise Club” and “You in Winter Rock ‘n Blues Paradise”.
Plus we do have the Best Beaches, many, many in the region. Soft sand, long stretches of open sand, even a few very dog friendly. “Come For The Music, Stay For The Beach” has been with us since we started in 2918
And here they are. See you in Paradise. We’ll bring the Rockin ‘n a Bluesin. With our Big Hearted Big Stage Experienced Performers of course.
See You January 18-28, 2024. Watch for announcements about our 2024 Fest and Events starting July 6, 2023. Finished 2023 with five “one amazing night” 5+ hour shows. Most were sold out. Now aiming to make 2024 even better. We are!
This Is New
So Are These:
Note: Added a 7th Page on May 16, 2023 and More on June 2, 2023
We’ve Begun The Process Of Counting Everyone Down To Early July When We Announce The First Wave Of Festival Performers for 2024. July 6, 2023, To Be Exact.
Our Way Of Getting To July 2023, Is To Develop A Presentation Deck That Tells Everyone: Past Fans, Future Fans, Sponsors, Business Partners, Advertisers, And Everyone Interested What Our Vision And Plans Are For Years 2024-2026. Our Manifesto For Fun In Paradise.
We Plan To Release Pages From The Deck Over The Next 2 Months Until We Get To The Biggest Question All Fans And Supporters Have…Who Is Going To Rock And Blues-Rock Me In 2024 In Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo and Region? That’s Mexico Baby!
So Let’s Get Started. Here are Some Details We Hope You Love Them. Of Course, We Are Open To All Suggestions and Comments. This Is What Is Called A “Living” Presentation Deck About Our 2024-2026 Vision And Detailed Plans. We Will Keep Modifying It As We Move Forward.
You’ll See More Many More Soon. We’d Love To Hear What You Think.
January 18-28, 2024 Will Be Here Before You Can Say “Wanna Wang Dang Doodle All Night Long” or “Old Time Rock ‘n Roll Gonna Soothe Your Soul”…It Will…Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo, Mexico Baby! We Ended On A High Note In 2023. Four Amazing NIghts And One Amazing Afternoon…In The “One Amazing Night” Series of Fest Events.
We’ll Start Now With An Ongoing Info Series That Will Get You Ready To Rock ‘n Blues Rock And Create Magical Amazing Nights Again in 2024.
New Merch Styles Coming 2024 And Shirts Like “I Came To Dance” And “Where’s The Tequila” That Were Very Popular In 2023 Will Return.
