The Blues Hotel: Blues That Broke The Rules.

This episode of The Blues Hotel takes a bold detour from tradition, spotlighting blues music that bends the rules but never loses its soul. From modal vamps and 8-bar laments to Australian garage-blues epics, we explore tracks that defy the 12-bar formula and embrace emotional truth.

Interview Spotlight: Ross Wilson We sit down with Australian music legend Ross Wilson, whose 60-year career spans garage rock, Delta blues, and everything in between. From his early days with The Pink Finks to his iconic hit “Eagle Rock,” Ross shares the roots behind his music, the meaning of “rock,” and the real story behind his latest blues-inspired EP. Songs like “She’s Stuck on Facebook All the Time” prove that even in the digital age, the blues is as relevant as ever.

Backstory Blues "Key to the Highway"

We trace the evolution of this wandering blues anthem—from Charlie Segar’s piano roots to Big Bill Broonzy’s eight-bar twist, and finally to Clapton and Allman’s blues-rock rendition. One song, many roads, same message: I’m gonna roam until the break of day.

Live at the MBAS; Heat 1 of the MBAS Annual Blues Challenge We shine a light on the work of the Melbourne Blues Appreciation Society (MBAS) and their International Blues Challenge, showcasing rising stars like Back Alley Sally and Damon Smith. These efforts help keep the flame burning for the next generation of blues artists.

© 2025 The Blues Hotel Collective.