3rd annual houston bluesfest tickets now on sale!

Hamilton Loomis, hailing from Galveston, Texas, grew up immersed in the rich traditions of blues, rock, and soul—thanks to his musician parents and their vast record collection. By his early teens, he was already a multi-instrumentalist, mastering guitar, piano, drums, harmonica, and even trombone, while performing with his family’s doo-wop group. Guided early on by legends such as Joe "Guitar" Hughes, Johnny Copeland, Clarence "Gatemouth" Brown, and Albert Collins, Loomis emerged as a bridge between generations, carrying forward the torch of electric blues.

A genuine protégé of Bo Diddley, young Hamilton's first chance to jam with the legend came backstage in Houston at just 16—a moment that blossomed into a lifelong mentorship, collaboration, and even a gift of a red guitar from Diddley himself. Since then, he has forged his own sound, landing in the “center” of the blues-soul-rock triangle, as Guitar Player magazine once described it. His 2007 album Ain’t Just Temporary climbed to No. 7 on the Billboard Top Blues Albums chart. Loomis has released eight albums to date, showcasing his versatility as a guitarist, singer, songwriter, and producer, while redefining modern blues with soulful riffs and funky grooves.

On stage, Loomis is pure energy—described by Blues Blast Magazine as “a non-stop turbo of power,” he invites the audience into the performance with dynamic showmanship that often becomes interactive and unforgettable. Whether at the Houston Bluesfest or other events where blues festival tickets are sold, he connects deeply with fans, turning newcomers into lifelong followers. Beyond the stage, he’s also known for paying it forward—his album Give It Back highlights his commitment to mentoring younger musicians, carrying on the generous spirit of his early mentors while keeping the essence of live music in Houston alive.

Jonn Del Toro Richardson is a Houston-born blues guitarist and vocalist whose music embodies the rich tapestry of his cultural heritage. Raised in a family steeped in Latin music traditions, with relatives performing in touring mariachi bands, Jonn was immersed in a diverse musical environment from a young age. His early exposure to country, Motown, R&B, and the blues that resonated from neighboring homes shaped his unique sound—a fusion of Tex-Mex rhythms and soulful blues.

A two-time Blues Music Award winner, Jonn's accolades include the Best New Artist Debut Award for his album Tengo Blues. He also contributed guitar work to Pinetop Perkins' Last of the Mississippi Blues Men, which earned a Grammy for Best Traditional Blues Album. His dynamic performances have graced stages worldwide, including the Waterfront Blues Festival in Portland, where he led the J2M Allstars, a collective of top-tier blues musicians.

At the Houston Bluesfest, Jonn Del Toro Richardson serves as both performer and host, bringing together an array of musical talents for a one-of-a-kind collaborative experience. His sets, celebrated for their spontaneous energy and seamless blending of diverse influences, make each performance a highlight of this sought-after event. For those keen to experience live music in Houston, securing your blues festival tickets to witness Jonn's magic ensures an unforgettable evening, turning the stage into a celebration of blues and beyond.

Born in Galveston and raised amidst the musical landscapes of Lubbock and Brownwood, Van Wilks made his mark in the Austin scene beginning in the early 1970s. His band, Fools, quickly established his reputation for heavy, guitar-driven blues-rock that resonated with fans hungry for raw Texas grit. In 1979, Wilks struck his first major chord by signing with Mercury Records and releasing his debut album, Bombay Tears, in 1980. Since then, he has released multiple solo records, delivered globe-spanning tours, and carved a legacy rooted in Texas-blues authenticity.

Wilks’ career has intertwined with rock and blues royalty. Sharing stages with legendary acts like ZZ Top, Heart, Van Halen, Journey, and Aerosmith, he has electrified audiences from Texas to Moscow and beyond. Notably, he appears on ZZ Top's Live at Montreux Jazz Festival DVD and co-wrote “Drive By Lover” with Billy Gibbons—a tune featured on ZZ Top’s La Futura and later reimagined on Wilks’ album, 21st Century Blues. This album, his first in a decade, pulses with Texas-sized guitar riffs and storytelling, including guest performances from Christopher Cross and Malford Milligan.

Beyond his blazing guitar chops, Van Wilks is a legend of Austin’s music awards circuit—he’s been repeatedly named Best Electric and Acoustic Guitarist and Best Blues-Rock Band in the Austin Chronicle Readers’ Poll, inducted into the Texas Music Hall of Fame, and recognized by the Austin Music Awards. His phenomenal live shows blend soulful storytelling, blistering fretwork, and a magnetic stage presence that turns casual listeners into fans. At the upcoming Houston Bluesfest, where we all eagerly anticipate the thrilling atmosphere, Van Wilks promises a performance that captures the fiery spirit and unbridled energy of Texas blues. Don't miss the chance to grab your blues festival tickets and experience live music in Houston at its finest.

Born Lee Audrey Nelms in Houston’s Fifth Ward in 1947, Trudy Lynn is a powerhouse of electric blues and soul. She began her musical journey in the mid-1960s, singing with blues icons like Albert Collins and Clarence Green, later opening for legendary acts such as Ike & Tina Turner. Over her enduring career, she has released twelve studio albums, one live recording, and four compilations, earning acclaim for her raw and emotional vocal style, often likened to blues greats like Koko Taylor and Etta James. Her 2014 album Royal Oaks Blues Café reached No. 1 on the Billboard Top Blues Albums chart, marking a highlight in her illustrious discography. 

The new documentary When Houston Had the Blues celebrates Houston’s rich and often underappreciated blues heritage, featuring a segment that highlights “The Ladies of Houston Blues,” including Trudy Lynn alongside Big Mama Thornton, Jewel Brown, and Katie Webster. This film sheds light on how Houston's vibrant Third and Fifth Wards became hotbeds for musical innovation, combining blues with influences from Tejano, Zydeco, R&B, and jazz.

On stage, Trudy Lynn embodies the soul of Houston blues—fiery, soulful, and deeply compelling. In her performances, she doesn’t just sing; she embodies the music’s history, emotion, and grit. Whether delivering shouts, warbles, or tender testimony, she brings the blues to life, captivating audiences with every note. As featured in When Houston Had the Blues, she stands as a vital cultural link to the city’s musical roots and a standout live performer, making her an unforgettable highlight for the Houston Bluesfest lineup. Fans eager to experience her potent talent can find blues festival tickets in advance, ensuring they don't miss this incredible live music Houston has to offer.

Leonard “Lowdown” Brown — Featured Guest at Houston Bluesfest

Houston’s own Leonard “Lowdown” Brown is a master of soul-blues guitar and vocals, renowned for his effortless fingerpicking and commanding stage presence. Over four decades, he has become a cornerstone of the Houston music scene, captivating audiences with his raw talent and dedication to the craft. Influenced by legends like B.B. King, R.L. Burnside, and T-Bone Walker, Brown's sound is a blend of deep blues and soulful grooves.

In 2023, at the age of 70, Brown released his debut album, Blues Is Calling Me, through the Music Maker Foundation. The album showcases his rich vocals and masterful guitar work, earning praise for its smooth grooves and heartfelt lyrics. Tracks like “Find a Bridge” and “Juke Joint” reflect his life experiences and musical journey.

His music has garnered attention beyond the local scene; his performance of “America Hymn” was featured in the Disney+ / National Geographic series America The Beautiful, narrated by Michael B. Jordan. He has also graced stages at renowned festivals such as the Telluride Blues & Brews Festival and the Baton Rouge Blues Festival.

As a featured guest at the Houston Bluesfest, Leonard “Lowdown” Brown brings decades of musical mastery and soulful storytelling to the stage. Music lovers seeking blues festival tickets will not want to miss his performance, which is a testament to the enduring spirit of blues and its power to unite and uplift audiences. Don't miss the chance to experience live music in Houston that celebrates the deep roots of the genre!

Allison Fischer — Rising Voice & Featured Guest at Houston Bluesfest 2025

From the heart of Houston’s vibrant music scene, Allison Fischer emerges as a commanding new voice in blues, swing, and roots music. A singer-guitarist gifted with raw soul and elegant technique, she brings an authenticity that resonates with longtime blues fans and newcomers alike. Her sets combine smooth vocals with driving guitar lines, enriched by a fearless stage presence and deeply felt storytelling.

Allison’s artistry reflects her respect for tradition while pushing boundaries. She draws inspiration from classic swing, jazz, and the blues matriarchs, yet adds her own voice—vulnerable, bold, and modern. In performance, you’ll hear ripples of past legends, but also something fresh: thoughtful lyrics, nuanced tone, and a connection to Houston’s musical heritage that she carries forward with passion.

As a featured guest at Houston Bluesfest 2025, one of the premier live music events in Houston, Allison Fischer will share the stage with some of the city’s legends and special guests—her presence promises to enrich the festival experience. Be sure to secure your blues festival tickets to see her perform; her shows invite everyone to lean in, listen closely, and discover that the blues are not just history but alive and evolving. Don’t miss her set—it’s bound to be one of those “I was there” moments.

No outside alcohol or food can be brought to the venue. However, you can enjoy food and drink at the restaurant East River 9, called Riverhouse Houston, while you experience the excitement of the Houston Bluesfest. Don’t forget to grab your blues festival tickets and check out the menu here to enhance your live music Houston experience.

There is plenty of free parking at East River 9; however, with our close to sell-out crowd for the Houston Bluesfest, we ask that you consider ride-share options! In addition, valet parking will be available on the property. 

If you haven't yet experienced East River 9, we are excited to welcome you to this beautiful multi-use venue, which features a 9-hole golf course, pickleball courts, and, of course, a fantastic restaurant and stage for live music in Houston, all overlooking the vibrant downtown skyline. Don’t forget to grab your blues festival tickets to enjoy an unforgettable experience!

Houston Bluesfest originated at a stunning venue in Fifth Ward, a neighborhood where many Blues legends in Houston were born. Inspired by the incredible musical talent and live music in Houston, HoustonLive assembled a dedicated team to bring to life what is now the Houston Bluesfest—our 2nd annual event set for 2024! We value your feedback on how to improve the experience, so don’t forget to grab your blues festival tickets and join us on November 9th at East River 9!