Willie "Big Eyes" Smith

Willie "Big Eyes" Smith Makes
Blues History

The nominees for the 30th Annual Blues Music Awards were announced on Dec 16, 2008.  Not only did Willie "Big Eyes" Smith garner two nominations but in doing so he made blues history.  His nominations for Best Instrumentalist in the categories of drums and harmonica marks the first time an artist has been recognized for two instruments, let alone in the same year.

Also nominated in the category of Best Instrumentalist for drums is Willie's son, Kenny "Beedy Eyes" Smith.  While there are many father and sons in the blues genre this is the first time both have been nominated in the same year and in the same category.

Blues Foundation members will be able to vote starting today, through March 1, with the results determining the winners. Member can CLICK HERE to vote.  If you are not already a member of the Blues Foundation please CLICK HERE to join.

The Blues Music Awards ceremony where the winners will be announced will be held on May 7, 2009 in Memphis at the Cook County Convention Center.  Tickets are available here or by calling 901.527.2583 ext 10.  

Full List of Nominees The Blues Foundation

Living Blues Magazine Announces
2008 Living Blues Awards

Living Blues magazine has announced the winners of its 15th annual Living Blues Awards.  Keeping it all in the family there was a tie for the Most Outstanding Musician - Drums between Willie "Big Eyes" Smith and his son Kenny Smith.  Congrats!

Issue Number 197 is on newstands now.  Congratulations also go out to bandmate Bob Stroger for Outstanding Musician - Bass and Pinetop Perkins for Outstanding Musician - Keyboards.

Willie "Big Eyes" Smith Releases Born In Arkansas on Big Eye Records, Inc. Willie "Big Eyes" Smith's latest thirteen track release, Born In Arkansas, is now available for purchase online at  CDMojo and CDBaby.