A Talk with Norman Rosaia from the group Blues Eaters

Hello Norman, can you tell us a bit about yourself?

My name is Norman Rosaia. For the past 15 years I’ve been travelling about France and Europe, playing the blues in my different bands.

How did your band start?

Blues Eaters started in July 2008, growing out of the collective drive of Thomas HIRSCH, Stéphane MOUREU, Olivier Mahieu and me. We were looking to work on an artistic project rooted in our shared passion for swing, jump blues, and early rhythm and blues from the 40s and 50s.

Which artists have influenced you the most?

T-Bone Walker, Muddy Waters, Little Walter, Lonnie Johnson, Junior Watson, B.B King, Ray Charles…

What is your fondest memory of the festival?

The night when Louisiana Red played his show on my acoustic guitar under the sole condition that I carry it to him on stage. After the show, I spent the evening hanging out with him. It was one of the best times I’ve ever spent with another artist.

How did you learn about the BSBF?

It’s a major event on the blues scene, regionally and nationally, so naturally we asked to be included and we have been lucky enough to play the festival many times since its start.

What do you enjoy the most about the festival?

The depth and diversity of the programme, and how it highlights the local scene through the “OFF” programme of concerts and the Tremplin Blues event.

How do you see the festival developing?

New ideas emerge every year. The festival keeps growing. It endures, which is not an easy thing for cultural events these days.

Current group line up

Guitar/Vocals/Harmonica: Norman ROSAIA

Guitar : Thomas HIRSCH /

Bass : Olivier JACQUELINE

Drum : Sébastien COURTI