Way back in 1998, World Records had 20,000 CDs to listen to and a steady stream of new releases. Many of the most exciting releases were from a phenomenal class of modern blues artists like Elvin Bishop, Charlie Musselwhite, Walter Trout, Coco Montoya, Tinsley Ellis, Roy Rogers, Tab Benoit, Tommy Castro, Sue Foley and Little Charlie and The Nightcats, fronted by lyricist and world-class harmonica master Rick Estrin, which commanded attention for its witty songs and energetic concerts.

We were so taken by terrific current artists rooted in blues, the foundation of rock 'n' roll, that we wanted to start a blues series so local music fans could enjoy these amazing artists right here in Bakersfield. But how could a record store start and succeed with a blues series, from scratch?

Pat Evans is the owner of World Records.