Senate Resolution 880
By: Senators Goodman of the 8th, Watson of the 11th, Jones II of the 22nd, Lucas of the
26th, Summers of the 13th and others
A RESOLUTION
Congratulating Derrick Dove & The Peacekeepers for winning the 2026 International Blues
Challenge; and for other purposes.
WHEREAS, Derrick Dove & The Peacekeepers represented the Wiregrass Blues Society
with exemplified artistry, musicality, and showmanship, setting a standard for Southern-fried
blues rock excellence; and
WHEREAS, in January 2026, the band captured the Band Championship at the 41st annual
International Blues Challenge hosted by The Blues Foundation in Memphis, Tennessee; and
WHEREAS, Derrick Dove & The Peacekeepers advanced through preliminaries, semifinals,
and finals, judged on musicianship, vocals, originality, and stage presence, before their
standout performance at the Orpheum Theatre; and
WHEREAS, frontman and guitarist Derrick Dove was also honored with the Best Guitarist
award, highlighting his dynamic, soul-stirring playing that fused deep Southern blues roots
with explosive rock intensity; and
WHEREAS, this remarkable championship effort was led by guitarist/vocalist Derrick Dove,
keyboardist Johnathan "JT" Thomas, bassist Walt Dunn, and drummer Jamie Richardson,
earning recognition for gritty, passionate performances rooted in classic blues with modern
fire.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body
congratulate Derrick Dove & The Peacekeepers on winning the 2026 International Blues
Challenge and extend best wishes for continued success in all future competitions.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed
to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to Derrick Dove &
The Peacekeepers.