About the Fountain Blues Foundation
Preserving the Past. Celebrating the Present. Inspiring the Future.
The Fountain Blues Foundation (FBF) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit dedicated to keeping live music thriving by promoting and preserving blues and roots-inspired music in the Bay Area. Through live performances, educational outreach, and community partnerships, we ensure that this rich musical heritage continues to inspire artists and audiences alike.
Our signature event, the San Jose Fountain Blues & Brews Festival, is the longest-running blues festival in Northern California. Featuring a wide range of blues, gospel, swing, zydeco, funk, soul, and R&B, the festival is a celebration of the music that has shaped generations.
More Than Just a Festival
The Foundation’s work extends far beyond a single event. With the support of partners like the San Jose Downtown Association, San Jose Jazz, and the Silicon Valley Blues Society, we organize year-round concerts, artist mentorship programs, and educational initiatives designed to keep live music accessible and relevant.
Our Mission
- Create performance opportunities for blues and roots musicians in an era of shrinking venues.
- Introduce diverse audiences to blues and its musical offshoots, ensuring its legacy continues.
- Mentor emerging artists, providing pathways for professional growth.
- Strengthen community ties by collaborating with local businesses, venues, and merchants.
- Support San Jose’s cultural and economic development through live music programming.
San Jose Fountain Blues & Brews Festival
For over 30 years, our annual festival has been a Bay Area tradition, bringing together world-class talent and new voices in a celebration of blues and its evolving sound. Each year, the festival welcomes:
- Renowned national and local artists spanning blues, R&B, funk, and more.
- A craft beer garden featuring top regional breweries.
- Local artists, makers, and community booths showcasing the Bay Area’s creative spirit.
- Southern-inspired cuisine with BBQ, po’boys, and homemade cobblers.
Our festival isn’t just about music—it’s about fostering connections, supporting local businesses, and creating a space where all music lovers feel welcome.
Beyond the Festival: Year-Round Music & Community Engagement
- Live Shows & Jams – We support performances at local venues, keeping live music thriving in Silicon Valley.
- Youth & Educational Programs – Inspiring future musicians by showcasing blues' deep influence on modern music.
- Expanding the Audience – By featuring crossover artists like gospel choirs and blues-rock acts, we reach music lovers of all backgrounds.
Community Partnerships
Music is a powerful force for bringing people together. That’s why we collaborate with local organizations, businesses, and non-profits to strengthen San Jose’s cultural landscape. Whether it’s through educational programs, live events, or mentorship opportunities, we are committed to making music an integral part of our community.
The Fountain Blues Foundation isn’t just about preserving the past—it’s about ensuring that the blues, and the music it inspires, continue to evolve and thrive for generations to come.