BLUES HEAVEN founder Willie Dixon, established Blues Heaven Foundation not only to assist in the documentation and promotion of the Blues but to also support Blues artists and the business of music. A legendary songwriter himself, Willie has long been an advocate of education.
   Due to the lack of funds, having been closed for two years due to the pandemic,

Scholarships will unfortunately not be distributed in 2024

We hope to resume accepting submissions in 2025

Qualifications & Deadline

The scholarship award of $2000 will be made on a competitive basis with consideration given to scholastic achievement, concentration of studies, and financial need.

Enrollment

The applicant must have full-time enrollment status in an Illinois area college or university. Students must be in at least their first year of undergraduate studies or graduate program.

Course Emphasis

Eligible applicants should be pursuing a degree in one of the following areas or related fields: Music, Music Education, African-American Studies, Folklore, Performing Arts, Arts Managements, Journalism, Radio/TV/Film Music Composers/Songwriters, Artist’s Legal Rights, Studio Recording Engineers.

Academic Achievement

Scholarship award shall be governed by applicant’s scholarship aptitude and extracurricular involvement including grade point average, honors programs, memberships, etc.

Financial Statement

Eligibility will be based on projected expenses, student and family income. Special consideration will be given to applicants demonstrating need for financial assistance.

Deadline

Application submissions will begin in February for the upcoming school year. The application deadline is April 30th and the scholarship recipient will be announced on the website on June 10. Funds are made available for the following fall semester, upon documentation of enrollment.

Please include in your online submission (on a Word Document):

  • Name (First & Last)
  • Email Address
  • Subject:  Muddy Waters Scholarship
  • A brief description about yourself and how the Scholarship could benefit you.
  • School Information:
    • ​School/College/University Name
    • Address
    • Phone
    • Major
    • Grade Level (next school year)


-OR- Mail to:
Blues Heaven Foundation

Attn:  Scholarship Committee
2120 S. Michigan Ave.
Chicago, IL  60616