The Blues Foundation’s 2024 International Blues Challenge is in the books with a “Big” check
mark on the “success” box. Congratulations to all of the winners and all of the competitors. The LIABR crew were there to support both the Kivett Bednar Band (The Cascade Blues
Associations “Band” entry) and LIABR artist’s TJ Wong and Alec Donn (representing the CBA in the Solo/Duo category). We also went to Memphis in search of some qualified new artists to add to our coalition and assist on their journey.
Wong, and LIABR founder Timmer Blakely all came back with the name “Bay Allen”, we reached out to explore a relationship and Bay responded. “Big” Bay Allen is now a part of the LIABR family. “Big” Bay’s LIABR debut album is already in production and scheduled for release later this year, tentatively titled “Love One Another”.
While “Big” Bay’s re-branding to primarily blues may be relatively new, his history as a recording artist is not. “Big” Bay has 21 previously released solo albums and multiple singles in his catalog spanning multiple genres including folk, roots, worship, and blues. The majority of “Big” Bay’s back catalog is accessible on all streaming services under the artist name “Bay Allen”. His most recent recording was the single “Benjamin Bill” (feat. Danny Knicely) released in January of 2024 to coincide with his “International Blues Challenge” appearance in Memphis TN, representing the Blues Society of Western Pennsylvania in the solo/duo category. “Big” Bay advanced to the semi-finals of this year's competition.
Based in Northwest Pennsylvania, “Big” Bay Allen is an award winning multi instrumentalist, singer-songwriter and pastor. With more than 35 years’ experience, his unique blend of
Piedmont, Ragtime, and other forms of acoustic blues is evident throughout his body of work. The message of his music is influenced by his faith, frequently representing a unique positivity not commonly found in the blues genre. His new album will include the reflection of some of “Big” Bay’s electric influences. Discussions are under way about adding Bay’s back catalog of original recorded material to the LIABR publishing catalog.
“Big” Bay Allen’s music can be found on all major digital retailers and streaming platforms, and make sure to look for him on the road playing a show near you!