CCBA / Music Production

An award-winning
record label

Building on an acclaimed catalog and established international distribution, CCBA will develop, record and bring visibility to emerging and established Blues artists.

A Living Tradition

Honor the history
Record what comes next

CCBA holds deep reverence for the rich history and far-reaching significance of the Blues—a foundation of twentieth-century American popular music.

We draw inspiration from that heritage while taking a forward-looking approach that goes beyond preservation. Building on the award-winning catalog inherited from Raisin’ Music, CCBA will give visibility to emerging and established artists and help them craft their own narratives and styles—breaking new ground as the pioneering Blues musicians did in their time.

Physical Music / New Value

The album becomes
an experience again

The transition to streaming and downloads diminished the value of physical albums—once a critical revenue stream for Blues artists.

As vinyl continues its resurgence, CCBA will offer artists both vinyl and CD packages. The physical release restores the immersive experience of an album while creating merchandise artists can sell directly at performances to generate income.

CCBA Catalog / Awards & Accolades

A catalog of
recognized excellence

Three Grammy-nominated projects and a body of work recognized by leading Blues and jazz institutions in the United States and Europe.

Album cover for Muddy Waters 100
01 / Catalog

Muddy Waters 100

Official Centennial Tribute

  • Grammy Nomination, 2016
  • Best Blues Album
Album cover for And Still I Rise
02 / Catalog

And Still I Rise

Heritage Blues Orchestra

  • Grammy Nomination, 2013 · Best Blues Album
  • Living Blues Critics Poll Award, 2013 · Best Producer, Larry Skoller
  • Blues Music Award Nominations, 2013 · Best Blues Album / Best Traditional Blues Album
Album cover for The (R)evolution Continues
03 / Catalog

The (R)evolution Continues

Chicago Blues: A Living History

  • Blues Music Award, 2012 · Best Traditional Blues Album
  • Blues Music Award Nomination, 2012 · Best Blues Album
  • Living Blues Critics Poll Award, 2012 · Best Blues Album
Album cover for Chicago Blues
04 / Catalog

Chicago BluesA Living History

Volume One

  • Grammy Nomination, 2010 · Best Traditional Blues Album
  • Blues Music Award Nominations, 2010 · Best Traditional Blues Album / Best Blues Album
  • National Academy of Jazz of France, 2010 · Best Blues Album
  • Living Blues Critics Poll Award, 2009 · Best Blues Album
More Than a Label

Develop the artist
Not only the recording

The Center will support the holistic development of male, female and gender-diverse Blues artists through education and training across the music business.

Workshops, seminars, residencies and intergenerational mentorship will encompass music education, entrepreneurship, marketing, promotion and financial management—bringing the artistic and business realms into sustained collaboration.

This integrated approach will help artists make informed decisions and build sustainable, enduring careers in a changing music industry.

CCBA Production / Touring / Distribution

From original work
to a global audience

01

Live & Studio Recording

Operating as a globally distributed record label, CCBA will offer comprehensive studio and live recording led by seasoned music-industry professionals—bridging a critical gap for Blues artists who may lack substantial visibility or a large social-media following.

02

National & International Touring

CCBA will facilitate local, national and international touring opportunities, giving artists platforms to share their work, connect with diverse audiences, generate income and create merchandising opportunities.

03

Worldwide Music Distribution

Established physical and digital distribution relationships will move CCBA releases beyond the studio—connecting artists and their music to listeners, media and markets around the world.

Chicago Center for the Blues Arts

Record the work
Release the music
Advance the artist

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