The UK blues community came together once again for the UK Blues Awards 2026, a night that highlighted the strength, depth and diversity of the current scene.
With a mix of established names and emerging talent recognised across the evening, the awards reflected a healthy and evolving landscape. From grassroots venues to international stages, the winners this year show just how broad the reach of UK blues has become.
Live performances from Sean Taylor, Alice Armstrong, Caitlin Krisko and The Zac Schulze Gang added to the atmosphere, giving the audience a reminder that this is a scene built as much on the stage as it is in the studio.
Some names featured more than once across the night. Alice Armstrong picked up awards for both Contemporary Blues Artist and Blues Vocalist, underlining her growing presence. Zac Schulze’s Young Blues Artist win marks him out as one to watch, while The Cinelli Brothers and Catfish continued their strong run with major category wins.
A Lifetime Achievement award for Eric Clapton provided a moment to reflect on the long-standing influence of UK blues on the global stage.
Away from the artists, the awards also recognised the people and places that keep the scene moving. From broadcasters and festivals to clubs and unsung contributors, the night made clear that the UK blues ecosystem relies on far more than performers alone.
UK Blues Awards 2026 winners
Young Blues Artist of the Year
Zac Schulze
Emerging Blues Act of the Year
The Whisky Flowers
Unsung Hero of the Year
Jim Simpson
International Blues Artist of the Year
Joanne Shaw Taylor
Acoustic Blues Act of the Year
Mississippi MacDonald
Blues Festival of the Year
The Great British R&B Festival
Lifetime Achievement Award
Eric Clapton
Blues Album of the Year
Catfish – Time To Fly
Blues Vocalist of the Year
Alice Armstrong
Traditional Blues Artist of the Year
Connor Selby
Dave Raven Blues Broadcaster of the Year
Elles Bailey
Blues Club/Venue of the Year
The Tuesday Night Music Club
Matt Long Blues Instrumentalist of the Year
Will Wilde
Contemporary Blues Artist of the Year
Alice Armstrong
Blues Band of the Year
The Cinelli Brothers
The UK Blues Awards continue to provide a snapshot of where the genre stands right now. Based on this year’s winners, the future looks in good shape.
You can rewatch the whole thing below!
