Blues is the Truth 762

The new edition of Blues is the Truth is live and ready to roll! Proudly sponsored by the Tuesday Night Blues Jam at the Rising Sun in Isleworth, this week’s show shines a spotlight on some of the incredible talent appearing at this year’s Ealing Blues Festival. The first half is a celebration of the artists taking the stage in Walpole Park, and the second half digs deep into the roots and branches of the blues.

Host Ian McHugh kicks things off with a setlist packed full of artists featured at this year’s festival, including the powerhouse energy of Little Mike and the Tornados, the double-shot of Robert Hokum and the Guv’nors, the smooth intensity of Bluez’d, and the explosive talent of Toby Lee. Also appearing are the Paul Cook Blues Band with Katie Bradley, Zoe Schwarz Blue Commotion, Geoff Garbow Band, and the raw Mississippi power of Cedric Burnside.

The festival focus wraps up with the slide-driven magic of Jack Broadbent, the ever-impressive Elles Bailey, and a brand new track from Ian McHugh himself.

In the second half, the show shifts into wider territory, showcasing stone-cold classics and standout deep cuts. You’ll hear the unmistakable growl of John Lee Hooker, the ice-cool sting of Albert Collins, and the smooth soul of Johnny Rawls. There’s also a star-packed turn from Bonnie Raitt et al, plus timeless sounds from Robert Nighthawk, Big Mama Thornton, and John Mayall and the Blues Breakers.

To round things off, there’s a taste of local legacy with Papa George and a rare track from Crawdaddy legends The Others.

It’s a show rooted in tradition and bursting with contemporary fire. Whether you’re heading to the Ealing Blues Festival or tuning in from afar, this one’s got your weekend soundtrack sorted.