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Jack Semple playing the Memphis Blues Hall. He will be in Vernon for performances Feb. 2 and 3. (submitted image/Facebook)
By Kevin Rothwell
Jack Semple

International Blues Challenge finalist set for Vernon shows

Feb 1, 2024 | 6:00 AM

One of Canada’s best blues musicians will play two shows in Vernon this weekend, hot off a great showing at the International Blues Challenge (IBC) in Memphis, Tennessee.

Juno award winner Jack Semple from Regina won the Saskatoon Blues Challenge to punch his ticket to Memphis, where he competed with the best in the world, making it to the semi-finals.

“I am a bit disappointed, but I am happy with my performance. I practiced hard to play well and I didn’t suck. Thanks for all the support from the Saskatoon Blues Society for getting me there. And now I am excited to be headed to Vernon in the Okanagan to play there the weekend of February 2 and 3,” Semple said.

The world’s largest gathering of blues musicians took place January 16-20, 2024 on Beale Street, with over 20 clubs hosting the challengers and fans. In addition to featuring these final rounds of the prestigious blues music competition, the IBC event week offered seminars, showcases, master classes, film screenings, networking events, book signings, and receptions for blues societies, fans, and professionals.

Semple and band will perform an intimate show Friday Feb. 2 at the 1516 Pub and Grill with that show nearly sold out.

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The Vernon and District Performing Arts Centre will be the venue Saturday Feb. 3, where Semple will perform a tribute to Canadian music legend Gordon Lightfoot. To purchase tickets click here. Both shows start at 7:30 p.m.

Semple did a cover album of Lightfoot’s work and got his approval from the work from the icon prior to his death last year.

by Kevin Rothwell
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