Melbourne, Australia singer-songwriter Nardia Brancatisano has taken out first place in the Band Category at the Melbourne Blues Appreciation Society (MBAS) Blues Challenge, earning the opportunity to represent MBAS and Australia on the international stage.
Joining her in the winners’ circle was acclaimed guitarist Nick Charles, who claimed first place in the Solo/Duo Category. Together, the two artists will travel to Memphis, Tennessee in January 2025 to compete at the prestigious International Blues Challenge (IBC), hosted by The Blues Foundation.
The MBAS Blues Challenge is regarded as Victoria’s leading platform for recognising and supporting outstanding blues talent. By securing first place, Nardia and Nick have earned the opportunity to perform in front of international audiences, industry representatives and fellow musicians at one of the world’s most respected blues events.
For Nardia, the win marks another major milestone in an already impressive career. Known for her soulful vocals, commanding stage presence and genre-blending sound, she has built a strong reputation across Australia’s live music scene through performances at festivals, clubs and major events nationwide.
Representing MBAS at the International Blues Challenge provides Nardia with the opportunity to showcase her artistry on one of the world’s biggest blues stages while further highlighting the strength of Australian blues talent internationally.
“It’s such an honour to be recognised by MBAS and to have the opportunity to represent Australia at the International Blues Challenge,” Nardia said. “Blues music has always been about storytelling, resilience and connection, and I’m incredibly excited to bring that spirit to Memphis.”
The International Blues Challenge will take place from January 7 to 11, 2025, on the iconic Beale Street in Memphis, widely regarded as the historic heart of blues music.