In this episode we're just talkin' blues with Christina Crofts, one of Australia’s most distinctive blues‑rock artists, a slide‑guitar powerhouse whose latest release Best of Bottleneck hit #1 on the Australian Blues & Roots Airplay Chart. She traces her journey from a musical childhood in Brisbane—accordion in the lounge room, guitar chords from her uncle Stan Coster—to finding her voice on the rockier edge of the blues.

Christina reflects on the profound influence of her late husband and mentor, guitarist Steve Crofts, whose riffs, guitars, and spirit still shape her sound. We explore her heroes David Lindley and Rory Gallagher, the wild energy of her live shows, and the enduring crowd favourite “Midnight Train.”

She also speaks candidly about today’s music industry: the brutal economics of streaming, the decline of physical media, and her concerns about AI’s impact on authentic creativity. Looking ahead, Christina is gearing up for more touring and a new album of original material—determined to keep the flame of real, human-made blues burning bright.

Discover more of Christina and her music at https://www.christinacrofts.com/

© 2025 The Blues Hotel Collective.

In this episode, we’re just talkin’ blues with John Durr, President of the Melbourne Blues Appreciation Society (MBAS)—a group that’s been at the center of Melbourne’s blues scene since 1990. What started as casual Sunday jam sessions at the Station Hotel has grown into a vibrant community that supports artists, welcomes fans, and keeps the spirit of the blues alive.

🗂️ Note: This is an archived conversation from 2024, offering timeless insights into the roots, challenges, and evolution of MBAS and the broader blues community.

We dig into:

• The founding story and mission of MBAS: to support blues musicians and connect them with audiences

• Why traditional memberships are fading, and how MBAS is embracing a supporter-driven model

• The weekly Tuesday night gigs and jam sessions that bring the community together

• The annual Blues Challenge, sending local acts to Memphis and opening doors worldwide

• Youth and Women in Blues programs that spotlight emerging talent

• How MBAS promotes the blues through newsletters, live streaming, and social media

• The evolving sound of blues and why it continues to resonate with younger generations

With candid reflections from John Durr, this episode is a celebration of grassroots music, community spirit, and the enduring power of the blues.

🔗 Learn more or get involved at mbas.org.au

© 2024-2025 The Blues Hotel Collective.

In this episode we’re Just Talkin’ Blues with Renate Bianca — a singer-songwriter whose journey spans the Netherlands, New Zealand, and Tasmania. From a musical family upbringing to a life-changing introduction to jazz, Renate has built a rich catalogue of heartfelt songs exploring humanity, connection, and authenticity.

In this interview, we dive into:

• Her songwriting philosophy — telling raw, honest stories with kindness

• The meaning behind singles like Laat Me Niet Vallen, Gumboots, and The Tracker

• Details on her upcoming album and collaborations with young jazz musicians

• Why she champions imperfection and authenticity in a digital age

• Her vision for music as an act of community and shared experience

• The Blues Hotel Collective - Official website of the Blues Hotel Collective - Home of The Blues Hotel and Just Talkin' Blues. Sign up to our quarterly newsletter and be notified when new episodes drop!
• Renaté Bianca Music - Official artist platform for Renaté Bianca, a songwriter, composer, librettist, and performer based in Southern Tasmania.

▶Chapters:

00:00 Journey Through Music: From the Netherlands to Australia

03:03 The Essence of Songwriting: Humanity and Connection

06:00 Exploring New Horizons: Dutch Music and Cultural Identity

08:57 The Album Journey: Creation and Collaboration

12:09 The Role of Music in Community and Connection

15:13 Navigating the Future: AI, Authenticity, and Artistic Vision

© 2025 The Blues Hotel Collective.