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our roster of musicians, together with the best of British Blues and a special link-up with musicians in the
USA.
LL: What can we look forward to from Ain't Nothin’ But Blues Club post COVID-19?
ANBB: We will start doing what we have always done—put on live music. But, until London is fully
opened, and travel in Europe is fully operational, it will be difficult to fund.
From A.J. Gross (Big Blues Bender):
LL: How has The Big Blues Bender
festival been impacted by the global
pandemic?
BBB: We are hopeful that the
collective actions being taken right
now to fight COVID-19 will result in a
period of recovery during the summer.
However, we do understand that if
things do not improve, we may be
forced to cancel. Many major festivals
postponed their events to September
and October as their rescheduled
dates, contributing to our cautious
optimism and the likelihood that we
will be in a better situation by then.
The health and wellbeing of our
guests, artists and staff is our top
priority. As the Bender date slowly approaches, we will continue to evaluate and respond to events as they
unfold. This unprecedented situation offers a glimpse as to why Big Blues Bender 2020 may be the most
relevant Bender on record.
LL: What do you think will change for The Big Blues Bender festival post COVID-19?
BBB: There is much uncertainty surrounding live music and entertainment due to the impacts of the
COVID-19 pandemic. We will follow guidelines recommended by local and state public health officials, all
while keeping Bender true to its roots. In times such as these, we believe music is more important than
ever. Our hope is that the Blues can get us through.
LL: What do you think the Blues community (artists, venues, organizations, Blues DJ’s, fans) can do to
help support venues post COVID-19?
BBB: After stay-at-home orders are lifted, the best way to help the Blues community is to buy tickets,
merchandise, albums—anything to support artists and venues! The entire Blues community is reeling right
now. Most artists rely on constant gigs to make ends meet, but those gigs have all disappeared for the
time being. For all they have given to us, we intend to stay resolute in our commitment to them so they
can return to doing what they love—making music. Additionally, the live entertainment production
industry consists of individuals who work as independent contractors, working an assortment of events