The Sky and Ocean Aren’t the Only Way to See Inspiring Blues in Laguna.


The Laguna Beach Cultural Arts Center has stepped up to preserve one of America’s most powerful and influential art forms, by providing a memorable OC haven for national touring blues legends.


The LBCAC offers its intimate listening room, stellar acoustics, state-of-the-art sound system and a host town recognized as one of the nation’s leading arts-centric resort destinations.


*Scroll down for detailed info on upcoming events*


Click here to read the recent Stu News article about the series.


2024 Clickable Calendar


Guy King | Feb 28

Chris Cain | March 12

Mark Hummel & Ansun Funderburgh | April 5

Andrew Synowiec | April 13 (GW)

Eric Sardinas | April 19

Eli Cook (Solo) | April 27

Melvin Taylor (Band) | May 10

Luke Pytel | May 31

Earl Thomas & Sister Leola | June 21

Lurrue Bell | July 19

Jimi Primetime Smith Aug 9

Matthew Curry | Aug 23

Kid Ramos & Brian Templeton | Sept 6

Brad Stivers & Lindsay Beaver | Sept 13

Monstert Mike Welch | Sept 20

The Bells | Sept 27

John Primer & Bob Corritore | Oct 25

Sean "Mack" McDonald | Nov 15

Jason Ricci | Nov 29

Earl Thomas w/ Anthony Cullins Band | Dec 6

Nick Moss w/ Dennis Gruenling & Lurrie Bell | Dec 13

* Named 2024 Blues Music Awards "Blues Band Of The Year"


* Check back on our website for calendar updates.

TICKETS

Kid Ramos .

Step right up and witness the electrifying journey of Kid Ramos, the maestro of American electric blues and blues rock! From his legendary collaborations with the likes of James Harman and The Fabulous Thunderbirds to his soul-stirring solo albums like "Two Hands One Heart" and "Greasy Kid Stuff," Ramos has etched his name in the annals of blues history. With a guitar in hand and a heart full of passion, he has graced stages worldwide, from the Edmonton's Labatt Blues Festival to the Notodden Blues Festival. Nominated for WC Handy awards and a proud recipient of the 2014 OC Music Award Lifetime Achievement, Kid Ramos is not just a musician – he is a force of nature, a true blues virtuoso whose music speaks straight to the soul.


Brian Templeton


Delve into the captivating world of blues music with the incomparable Brian Templeton, a gifted vocalist, songwriter, and harmonica player whose passion for the genre knows no bounds. From his illustrious days with The Radio Kings to his current spellbinding performances with The Delta Generators, Templeton mesmerizes audiences with his soulful vocals and masterful harmonica skills. The unveiling of The Proven Ones sees Templeton pushing boundaries and exploring new horizons as he joins forces with esteemed musicians like Kid Ramos, Jimi Bott, Willie J Campbell, and Anthony Geraci to craft a dynamic and fresh interpretation of blues music. Templeton's artistic evolution is a true testament to his unyielding dedication to the blues and his remarkable ability to reinvent himself time and time again within this vibrant musical landscape.


With a rich history in blues music, vocalist, songwriter, and harmonica player Brian Templeton continues to showcase his immense talent and passion for the genre. From his notable contributions with The Radio Kings to his current role in The Delta Generators, where he mesmerizes audiences with his harmonica skills and soulful vocals, Templeton's dedication to the blues is truly commendable. His latest venture, The Proven Ones, exemplifies his versatility and artistry, as he collaborates with renowned musicians like Kid Ramos, Jimi Bott, Willie J Campbell, and Anthony Geraci to create a fresh, eclectic take on blues music. Templeton's journey is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the craft and his ability to continually reinvent himself within the vibrant world of blues. Proving His Dues To The Blues – vocalist, songwriter and harmonica player, Brian Templeton has blues music in his DNA as they say. Probably best known for his work with The Radio Kings, and plying his trade with The Delta Generators who he still plays the harmonica with, and provides lead vocals. Recently he joined forces to form another band with a more eclectic take of the blues music genre. The band is called The Proven Ones and includes Kid Ramos on guitar, Jimi Bott on drums, Willie J Campbell on bass, and Anthony Geraci on keyboards.

TICKETS

Lindsay Beaver and Brad Stivers are a dynamic musical duo who effortlessly blend soulful duet singing, Americana songwriting, and Texas Blues influenced guitar playing. Lindsay's musical journey began as a jazz and blues drummer, and she has since garnered recognition with nominations for 'Best New Talent' and 'Best Traditional Blues Recording' at the Blues Awards. Notably, she was awarded 'Drummer of the Year' in 2018 and 2019 at the Maple Blues Awards, reflecting her exceptional talent and dedication.


Lindsay's impressive resume includes touring 15 countries over the last 7 years and releasing music on Alligator Records. She has shared the stage with renowned artists such as Jimmie Vaughan and Gary Clark Jr., showcasing her versatility and passion for music. On the other hand, Brad discovered his love for the guitar at a young age and has since recorded 5 albums, three of which were released under Vizztone Records. His music has received widespread radio play, reaching audiences across the globe.


Brad's collaborations with esteemed musicians like Malford Milligan and Sax Gordon highlight his musical prowess and creativity. Additionally, he has opened for blues legends such as Lurrie Bell and Tinsley Ellis, solidifying his reputation as a talented guitarist. With extensive touring experience in the USA and Europe, Brad brings a wealth of expertise and a unique sound to their performances, making Lindsay Beaver and Brad Stivers a captivating duo that music enthusiasts won't want to miss.

TICKETS

With three decades of touring and recording under his belt, Boston-based blues guitarist Monster Mike Welch is a seasoned veteran of the international blues scene. Given the nickname “Monster Mike” by actor/Ghostbuster Dan Aykroyd at the tender age of 13, Welch has since carved out a niche as a highly accomplished and in-demand guitarist.


To date, Welch has released several albums under his own name and in 2001, he joined the ranks of one of New England’s most beloved blues institutions, Sugar Ray and the Bluetones, where he stayed until 2017, recording five albums and racking up multiple Blues Music Award nominations for the band in that time. In addition, Welch has recorded with Shemekia Copeland, Ronnie Earl, Danielle Nicole, Duke Robillard, Johnny Winter, Victor Wainwright, Nick Moss, the Mannish Boys and Sugaray Rayford, among others.


Welch left the Bluetones in 2017 to focus on his partnership with Mike Ledbetter, which led to seven Blues Music Award nominations and the formation of the Welch Ledbetter Connection within the first year. Welch has received three consecutive Blues Music Award nominations by the Blues Foundation for Instrumentalist-Guitar beginning in 2016, a Boston Music Award for Best Blues Act, and is an inductee of the Rhode Island Music Hall Of Fame. In 2023, Monster Mike Welch embarked on the next phase of his career when he signed with Gulf Coast Records to make new music. 


For more information Click here to view website


TICKETS

The Bells (FKA: The Black Tongued Bells) bring us "tall tales from the American swamp. Take a journey back in time to the swamps of New Orleans & Baton Rouge Louisiana.


Marylou Stuart along with several other BTB original members will be on hand to transport the audience onto a swampy New Orleans porch as they sing original masterpieces.


Note: The Bells are influenced by artists like Son House, Howlin Wolf, Sister Rosetta Tharpe, Muddy Waters, Bo Diddley and Rolling Stones.

TICKETS

Two-time Grammy-nominated artist and American blues legend John Primer was the band leader and guitarist for Muddy Waters, Willie Dixon, and Magic Slim & The Teardrops.


Grammy-nominated Bob Corritore is considered among the top traditional blues harmonica players on the scene today. Additionally he is the owner of the Rhythm Room, the radio show host of “Those Lowdown Blues” on KJZZ, the founder of Southwest Musical Arts Foundation, the editor and main writer of the Bob Corritore Blues Newsletter, an official endorser of Hohner harmonicas, a Keeping The Blues Alive award recipient

TICKETS

Meet the young, eyebrow-raising, rapidly ascending blues singer and guitar protégé Sean Alexander McDonald, known as “Mack.At just 22 years old, Mack has mastered the art of making his guitar sing in the echoes of legendary figures like Louis Jordan and overlooked geniuses like Pete "Guitar" Lewis. His musical voice is a reflection of his upbringing in Augusta, Georgia, where the sounds of family, friends, and the church shaped his soulful tunes. Backed by seasoned Chicago blues musicians, Mack is often hailed as an "old soul" in the music scene. With a musical journey that began at a young age, Mack's repertoire spans from piano to guitar, drawing inspiration from blues icons like B.B. King and contemporary talents like Jontavious Willis. His performances take audiences on a captivating journey across the country, from the soulful vibes of Memphis to the vibrant energy of New Orleans and the gritty charm of Chicago.


Whether belting out bluesy ballads about lost love or paying homage to "country girls" with his rendition of "Down Home Girl," Mack's electrifying guitar solos leave a lasting impression. When Mack steps away from the microphone, his infectious energy and soulful melodies continue to resonate through the strings of his guitar, captivating listeners with every note.

TICKETS

Jason Ricci is a harmonica virtuoso and a force of nature in the blues world, redefining the genre with his electrifying performances and boundary-pushing artistry. Known for his fiery, soulful harmonica playing, Ricci combines technical brilliance with deep emotional expression, creating a sound that is both innovative and deeply rooted in the blues tradition. His live performances are legendary, marked by raw energy, intricate improvisations, and a magnetic stage presence that captivates audiences.

Ricci’s journey through music is a testament to his resilience and passion. Overcoming personal struggles, he channels his life experiences into his music, infusing each note with authenticity and intensity. His mastery of the harmonica is unparalleled, often leaving fellow musicians and fans in awe. Ricci's influences range from traditional blues masters to jazz and rock, allowing him to craft a unique style that transcends genre boundaries.


Beyond his technical prowess, Jason Ricci is a compelling storyteller. His lyrics explore themes of love, loss, redemption, and the human condition, resonating deeply with listeners. Whether performing solo or with his band, Ricci’s connection with his audience is palpable, transforming each performance into a shared, cathartic experience. Jason Ricci’s contributions to the blues have earned him critical acclaim and a dedicated following. His innovative approach and relentless pursuit of excellence continue to push the boundaries of the genre, ensuring his place as one of the most influential and inspiring blues artists of his generation. For anyone seeking the raw, transformative power of blues music, Jason Ricci is an artist whose work is not to be missed.

TICKETS

2X Grammy-nominated Earl Thomas is a Blues and Soul singer from Tennessee. With a storied history of playing on stage with BB King and Gladys Knight at Montreux Jazz Festival, performing at London's legendary Ronnie Scott's, opening shows for BB King, Etta James, Aretha Franklin and his musical idol Ike Turner- he's a seasoned performer coming to grace the SF Live stage at Union Square! Performing over 200 shows a year, he still holds down a 10-year residency at San Francisco's Biscuit & Blues.


Thomas will be performing with So Cal's young musical prodigy Anthony Cullins blends R&B, funk, soul, rock, jazz, and blues into his unique "psychedelic-soul" style. Winner of "best Blues Artist" at the 2023 and 2024 San Diego Music Awards, his new digital EP and single "whirlwind" is gaining national attention.

TICKETS

Step into the world of electric blues with the dynamic duo of master blues guitarist Nick Moss and harmonica virtuoso Dennis Gruenling. Their latest Alligator Records album, "Get Your Back Into It!", is a fiery concoction of soulful melodies and exuberant rhythms that will ignite your passion for classic Chicago blues. Hailed as torchbearers for traditional electric blues, this award-winning band brings a fresh, high-energy twist to the sounds of Chicago, Texas, and the West Coast. With accolades like the 2020 & 2024 Blues Music Award for "Blues Band Of The Year" under their belt, Nick Moss and Dennis Gruenling effortlessly showcase the timeless vitality of old-fashioned blues in the 21st century.


Prepare to be captivated by the seamless interplay of each musician, as they craft a musical experience that is both nostalgic and innovative. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the electrifying world of Nick Moss and Dennis Gruenling - your soul will thank you.


The concert will feature special guest, 3X Grammy-nominated, Chicago Blues Legend, Lurrie Bell.

The Laguna Beach Cultural Arts Center, located at 235 Forest Avenue in Laguna Beach, upstairs. Right next door to The Candy Baron


Check out our calendar at

www.LBCulturalArtsCenter.org


LBCAC has installed a Patriot Air Purification System to ensure

a virus free environment. www.patriotairsystems.com


Grant funding was made possible by the lodging establishments

and the City of Laguna Beach.