Southern-fried blues rock band Derrick Dove & The Peacekeepers, representing the Wiregrass Blues Society, claimed the Band Championship at the 41st International Blues Challenge (IBC) in Memphis, Tennessee, January 13-17, 2026. Frontman/guitarist Derrick Dove was also awarded Best Guitarist for his soulful, electrifying performances.
The world’s premier blues competition drew over 125 acts to Beale Street venues. After advancing through preliminaries, semifinals, and finals — judged on musicianship, vocals, originality, and stage presence — the band delivered a commanding set at the Orpheum Theatre to secure the title.
This triumph follows their 2025 win at the Wiregrass Blues Society’s inaugural IBC Affiliate Battle of the Blues Bands, which earned them the honor of representing the Wiregrass region.
“The Wiregrass Blues Society gave us the platform and the push we needed,” said Derrick Dove. “Winning their battle got us to Beale Street, and their support made this possible. Bringing home the IBC Band Championship and Best Guitarist honors is for the Wiregrass, South Georgia, and every blues fan who keeps this music alive.” Dove continued to say, “We are absolutely honored and humbled to be the 2026 IBC’s first place band! Thank you to everyone who has supported our journey thus far. Now it’s time to double down and get to work! See y’all soon!”
Based in Tifton, Derrick Dove & The Peacekeepers are known for high-energy shows and originals like “Daddy Was A Blues Man.” Their IBC win spotlights the vibrant scene nurtured by regional societies like Wiregrass, which hosts the annual Wiregrass Blues Festival (where the band returns in March 2026).
The band thanks the Wiregrass Blues Society, fans, family, The Blues Foundation, and the global blues network. New music and expanded touring are on the horizon.
