It would be a mistake to oversimplify the blues by defining the genre as nothing more than “songs about sad stuff.” Surely, like certain religions that tell us all life is suffering (and yes, that is also an oversimplification), the blues are rooted in humankind’s universal, lizard-brain responses triggered by heartache, loss, and lowered expectations. Oh, and then we get a guitar solo, or maybe some bitchin’ organ crescendos to take us to church. The blues, oversimplified.

In honor of three decades of blues excellence, Ruf Records is thrilled to announce a special 30th Anniversary Tour featuring an extraordinary lineup of artists who have shaped the label's legacy. The tour launches on Thursday, November 7, at the Carnegie of Homestead Music Hall, located at 510 E. 20th Ave. Doors open at 7:00 PM, and the show begins at 8:00 PM. Tickets range from $49.75 to $79.75 and are available at librarymusichall.com.

Samantha Fish, the genre-defying blues-rock powerhouse, proudly announces the return of her Shake 'Em On Down Tour for its second annual edition. Fish will again headline an electrifying lineup showcasing the best in modern blues. This year's tour features Grammy-nominated Cedric Burnside, a North Mississippi Hill Country Blues torchbearer, and the return of blues-punk legend Jon Spencer.

Samantha Fish, the genre-defying blues-rock powerhouse, has released her electrifying rendition of the Screamin' Jay Hawkins classic "I Put A Spell on You." Known for her fiery guitar playing and soulful vocals, Fish breathes new life into the iconic track, infusing it with her signature edge and raw emotion. "I've always loved how intense and theatrical this song is," Fish shares.

Samantha Fish is unstoppable in 2024, unveiling “Crowd Control” (Alternate Version), a dynamic three-song E.P. that reimagines her electrifying tracks "Faster," "Crowd Control," and "Better Be Lonely." Known for her commanding stage presence, Fish amplifies these fan favourites with the raw, untamed energy that defines her. At the core of this release is a bold self-exploration—one of empowerment, vulnerability, and facing inner demons.

In celebration of its 30th anniversary, Ruf Records is proud to announce a monumental tour that will showcase the legacy of one of the most influential labels in modern blues history. Since its founding in 1994 by Thomas Ruf, Ruf Records has been a cornerstone of the blues genre, nurturing some of the most renowned and respected artists in the world. The 30th Anniversary Tour is not just a celebration of the label's past but a testament to its ongoing commitment to preserving and advancing the blues tradition.

Samantha Fish is gearing up to release new live performance recordings on Rounder Records, starting with a powerful rendition of “Better Be Lonely” on August 23rd. The single is available on all streaming platforms HERE. Watch the music video on YouTube HERE.

On Saturday, July 13th, the Rolling Stones performed at Sofi Stadium in Inglewood, California. While the octogenarians rocked the stage, Slash brought his S.E.R.P.E.N.T. festival to the Greek Theatre across town in the heart of Hollywood. The show featured many talented young musicians paying homage to the roots of all hard rock: the Blues genre.

The S.E.R.P.E.N.T. Festival Tour, featuring Slash and many of his musical friends, is a celebration of blues music. Slash was introduced to the blues early in life by his grandmother, who played him B.B. King and Albert King records. The blues genre has always resonated with Slash, incorporating its sound and feeling into his rock and roll musical style.

In celebration of his forthcoming new album Orgy of the Damned out May 17 on Gibson Records, SLASH the iconic, GRAMMY®-winning guitarist and songwriter has curated an all-star Blues lineup for the S.E.R.P.E.N.T. Blues Festival touring North America this summer. SLASH formed the S.E.R.P.E.N.T.