The word “MAMA” – especially when it is in all caps – invokes dedication, sacrifice, and support. And all that tracks for Melissa McKinney, who fronts the 2025 Triangle Blues Challenge-winning band MAMA. Even without her inspiring backstory, McKinney’s recent accomplishments alone would make for impressive album liner notes: By Barry Shuster Melissa McKinney will not need directions to Memphis when she and her new band MAMA hit the road in mid-January to perform at the 2026

Let's celebrate ... you! The Triangle Blues Society's Member Appreciation Party is set for Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, from 4-7 p.m. at Blue Note Grill. Our host band, Fabulous Nite-Life Boogie, will get you groovin’ – and there will be complimentary food! Please bring an unwrapped toy for our Toys for Tots box. TOYS FOR TOTS: Deliver hope to children this holiday season! Triangle Blues Society and Blue Note Grill are once again inviting everyone in the area to help us fill the To

The 2025 Triangle Blues Challenge winners were MAMA featuring Melissa McKinney (band) and Charlley Ward and Joel Keel (solo/duo). They'll now represent the area at the Blues Foundation's 41st International Blues Challenge. Among the other great local talents competing this year at the Triangle Blues Challenge, held on Nov. 2, 2025, at the Blue Note Grill in Durham, N.C.: Caitlin Krisko and the Broadcast, Lightning Kate and the Derm Dregs, Big Jim Kohler and BluzHammer. Solo/

We have an exciting lineup of bands and solo/duo competitors for the Triangle Blues Society's 2025 Triangle Blues Challenge! Band performers at 1PM on Sunday, Nov. 2, 2025, at the Blue Note Grill in Durham will be Caitlin Krisko and the Broadcast, Lightning Kate and the Derm Dregs, Big Jim Kohler and BluzHammer. Solo/duos include Melissa McKinney, T.C. Mirc, Charlley Ward, John Shearer and Blue Plate Special! The Triangle Blues Society’s annual Triangle Blues Challenge is a