Blues & boogie in Church Crookham

Round & About

Find your festive rhythm with live Blues in Church Crookham and discover “why the blues still strikes such a powerful chord”

Looking for a night out that’s full of heart, energy and a touch of nostalgia? December’s Blues & Boogie nights at Church Crookham Memorial Hall regularly bring in artists you’d usually expect to find on London stages or European festival line-ups – the perfect chance to swap the bustle of Christmas shopping and crowded pubs for an evening that really hits the right note. 

The blues isn’t just another genre – it’s the root of so much of the music we love today, shaping icons like The Rolling Stones, Fleetwood Mac, Led Zeppelin and Eric Clapton. What began as raw expression in America found a powerful voice here in the UK during the British blues boom of the ’60s, changing the sound of rock forever. That’s why hearing the blues live still feels both timeless and fresh – it connects you straight back to the soul of modern music.  

Boogaloo Promotions has been keeping that spirit alive locally for 30+ years. Founder Monica Madgwick, honoured with a Blues Matters Lifetime Achievement Award alongside Ronnie Wood and John Mayall, has one mission: to make exceptional music accessible and welcoming. With tickets from £15, free parking and a bring-your-own-drinks policy, these gigs have become a real community favourite. This month catch: 

Friday 5th – Ruthless Blues (£15pp), doors 8.15pm, music 8.45-10.45pm. If you like your blues raw, lively and fun, Ruthless Blues will hit the spot. Formed in 1979, they’ve spent decades winning over crowds with their energetic mix of rhythm and blues. Charismatic frontman Stevie Smith, on vocals and harmonica, is still fronting and bringing one of the best voices on the UK blues scene. 

Friday 19th – Aynsley Lister Christmas Special (£20pp), early show: doors 5pm. Music 5.30-7.30pm; late show: sold out. If guitar heroes are more your thing, this is the night to book. In 2007, Aynsley was the only British artist to make Classic Rock magazine’s list of Top 10 Contemporary Blues Artists, standing shoulder to shoulder with John Mayer and Joe Bonamassa. With 100k+ albums sold and tours across Europe, he’s one of the finest modern blues artists around. The late show has already sold out, with an earlier performance added due to demand. 

Reserve your spot online, pay cash on the door – and come and discover why the Blues still strikes such a powerful chord.