The San Luis Obispo Blues Society’s
“Spectacular” Performers
The Ray Jaurique Band
Ray Jaurique
Guitar and Vocals
“Ray Jay” is a dynamic blues and soul artist hailing from Ventura, California. Renowned for his soulful vocals and expressive guitar work, he has become a staple in the Southern California music scene.
Ray’s music is a rich blend of blues, soul, and roots, drawing comparisons to legends like Sam Cooke, Albert King, Albert Collins, Delbert McClinton, Keb’ Mo’, Van Morrison, and the songwriting trio Holland–Dozier–Holland.
His sound is accessible and engaging, often leaving listeners with the impression they’ve known his songs for years. Ray and his seasoned musicians consistently deliver well-crafted, soulful, and danceable songs.
Ray collaborates with seasoned musicians and consistently delivers well-crafted, soulful, and irresistibly danceable songs.
The band’s lineup for our January show includes:
Kirk Maxson
Bass guitar
Rena Beavers
Drums
Ross Craton
Saxophone
Rubin Salinas
Saxophone
Chris Tune
Trombone
Noah Thomas
Trumpet
The Irene Cathaway Rhythm and Blues Band
The Irene Cathaway Rhythm and Blues Band, led by lead vocalist Irene Cathaway, channels the raw soul of vintage rhythm & blues. Inspired by legends like Koko Taylor, Etta James and Willie Dixon, their sound is steeped in Chicago blues and Southern soul - deep grooves, rich textures, and vocals that testify.
Whether you're a lifelong blues lover or hearing the real thing for the first time, The Irene Cathaway Rhythm & Blues Band delivers a show that hits you in the heart and stay with you long after the last note fades.
This IS Rhythm & Blues the way it was meant to be: raw, real and unforgettable.
Dean Giles Drummer
Bayley Bagley Guitar
The Burning James Blues All Stars
‘Burning’ James Scoolis raised in the grit and soul of Cleveland, Ohio has been performing soul, blues, gospel, classic RnB, funk and good ol’ Rock and Roll music on the Central Coast for over 50 years. He brings his ear for harmonies, soulful vocals, and greasy, bluesy guitar playing to the band.
Introducing the young blues harmonica master Jimmy Godfrey. Whether playing a roaring shuffle or trading licks with seasoned pros, Jimmy brings groove, grit, and genuine emotion to every show. Mentored by John Clifton, frontman of the internationally acclaimed Mofo Party Band, Jimmy learned directly from a master of tone, phrasing, and stagecraft. His harmonica work bridges the Delta and the coast— carrying the fire of Central Valley blues and the smooth, danceable pulse of West Coast swing into every performance.
The great ‘Shuffle Drummer’, Wes Starr, fresh from yet another European tour with Anson Funderburgh and Mark Hummell joins us on drums.
The Great Billy Baxmeyer is our “deep pocket groove machine” on bass.
Billy Baxmeyer Bass Guitar
Wes Starr Drums
James Godfrey Harmonica Master