Longtime rhythm and blues sensation Randy Oxford Band hits the infamous Midwest Blues Highway to kick off 2014 with one really important stop along the way. The band will represent Tacoma at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis this January. It's the largest gathering of blues bands in the world and a big deal: bands had to compete locally and regionally to get the honor. Expecting more than 300 acts from around the world, IBC is five days of bluesy goodness. Add in the launch of the band's highly lauded and buzzworthy new CD, ... it feels good, and it's extra bluesy special.

So, when not posing for national magazine covers and winning more awards, the Randy Oxford Band is jamming right here at home, including at its annual Night After Christmas show at Jazzbones. I caught up with trombonist Oxford before his show Friday.

Read Kim Thompson's interview with Randy Oxford in the Music & Culture section.

RANDY OXFORD BAND'S NIGHT AFTER CHRISTMAS SHOW, w/Nolan Garrett, 8 p.m., Friday, Dec. 27, Jazzbones, 2803 Sixth Ave., Tacoma, $9.99, 253.396.9169