Blues music isn’t just a relic of the past – it’s alive and thriving in the Bay Area. The 42nd annual Fountain Blues & Brews Festival in downtown San Jose proved just that, drawing a record-breaking crowd of nearly 3,000 blues enthusiasts to Plaza de Cesar Chavez.

Headlining the festival was young blues sensation Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, a Grammy-winning artist who’s been instrumental in revitalizing the genre for a new generation. His electrifying 90-minute set was a highlight, with fans mesmerized as he moved through the crowd, soloing non-stop and capturing the raw energy that makes blues music so compelling.

The festival, which began as a student-run event at San Jose State University in 1981, has evolved into a two-day celebration of blues music. This year’s lineup featured an impressive range of talent, from local heroes like Sacramento’s Kyle Rowland Band to veteran performers like the legendary Fillmore Slim, who at 90 years old still knows how to rock a crowd.

The event’s success might be partly attributed to the recent buzz around blues music, potentially sparked by the film “Sinners” and its juke-joint style soundtrack. Kingfish himself appears in the movie, further bridging the gap between traditional blues and contemporary culture.

What made the festival truly special was its community atmosphere. Attendees lounged on blankets and beach chairs, sharing barbecue and burritos while connecting over their shared love of blues music. The two-stage setup meant continuous music from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., ensuring non-stop entertainment for blues lovers.

With its record-breaking attendance and stellar performances, the Fountain Blues & Brews Festival demonstrated that blues music continues to evolve and attract new generations of fans. It’s not just a genre of the past – it’s a living, breathing art form that continues to inspire and connect people.