The Mahindra Blues Festival 2026 lineup is out and it’s packing surprises you won’t see coming.
Mumbai’s coolest February tradition is back. The Mahindra Blues Festival is officially rolling out its lineup for the 14th edition, taking over Mehboob Studios, Bandra on February 14 and 15, 2026. If you thought last year was big, this one is shaping up to be a full-throttle blues carnival.
DAY 1: A Line-Up That Hits All the Right Notes
Headlining the opening night is none other than British guitar wizard Matt Schofield, returning to the very stage he helped christen during the festival’s debut edition.
From Milwaukee, the Altered Five Blues Band brings its modern blues swagger complete with Jeff Taylor’s unmistakable velvety growl that nods to giants like B.B. King and Howlin’ Wolf.
The night only gets richer with Shemekia Copeland, one of the most commanding voices of contemporary blues. Daughter of the legendary Johnny Copeland, she returns after memorable sets in 2011 and 2017, ready once again to blend raw power with tender storytelling.
Adding a homegrown pulse to the evening, Blackstratblues returns as one of India’s most influential blues-rock exports. With Jai Row Kavi, Adil Mistry, and Beven Fonseca rounding out the quartet, expect soaring instrumentals that blend blues tradition with psychedelic and electronic textures.
The Rising Force of Modern Blues
Enter D.K. Harrell, the 27-year-old breakthrough artist whose debut album Talkin’ Heavy has sent shockwaves through the scene. His MBF debut is easily one of the most anticipated acts of the year.
Joining him is modern-day guitar titan Eric Gales fresh off a Grammy nomination and a feature on Ryan Coogler’s global hit Sinners. Gales last appeared at MBF as a special guest in 2017.
Amplifying Young Voices
Continuing its tradition of nurturing the next generation, MBF once again features the Kanakia Beatz Crew and the Nanhi Kali Choir powered by the Mahindra Group’s Nanhi Kali initiative for girl-child education. The Big Blues Band Hunt also returns, giving emerging artists a chance to shine on the Garden Stage.
Save the Dates!
As February approaches, one thing is clear: whether you’re a longtime blues devourer or a curious newcomer, the 14th edition of the Mahindra Blues Festival promises two unforgettable nights of music, storytelling, and soul.
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