The Best Blues Artists of All Time
- King of the Delta Blues Singers, The Complete Recordings, King of the Delta Blues
Considered one of the most important pioneers of blues music, his poignant lyrics and expressive playing style have influenced countless musicians. As a master of fingerstyle guitar, he displayed incredible precision and a unique slide technique that would later inspire a generation of rock 'n' roll guitarists. Despite his tragic early death, his legend lives on as a cornerstone of blues music, with his soulful voice and emotive playing still widely recognized and celebrated today.
More Robert Johnson - I'll Play the Blues for You, Live at the Fox Venice Theatre, Collection
See: The Best John Lee Hooker Albums
A unique sound that consists of a dark, pulsating rhythm and raw electric guitar made this individual an integral figure in the development of electric blues. Known for his distinctive vocal style that can be both haunting and guttural, his music has influenced generations and left an indelible mark on rock 'n' roll. Throughout his career, he garnered a sizeable following in pop culture, making appearances in movies and collaborating with numerous artists across various genres.
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- The London Howlin' Wolf Sessions, The Genuine Article, Howlin' Wolf
With a deep, gravelly voice perfectly suited for the blues, this influential artist became a driving force behind the genre's development and popularization. An electric performer on stage, his ferocious energy combined with his exceptional guitar and harmonica skills captivated audiences worldwide. As a result, his name is now synonymous with the blues, as his iconic sound continues to influence modern blues artists and thrive in pop culture.
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- Let the Good Times Roll, Live at the Regal, Ladies and Gentleman... Mr. B.B. King
See: The Best Albums Of B.B. King
Synonymous with the blues, this powerhouse performer captivated audiences for decades with his unmatched charisma and fluid, intricate guitar work. Famed for his groundbreaking fusion of gospel-tinged vocals and searing electric guitar licks, he played a pivotal role in bringing blues music into the mainstream. With innumerable accolades and a star on Hollywood's Walk of Fame, his influence on pop culture and modern music is truly incalculable.
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- Anthology, Super Blues, Fathers and Sons
See: The Best Albums Of Muddy Waters
Regarded as the "father of modern Chicago blues," this seminal artist seamlessly integrated the sounds of the Mississippi Delta with electrifying urban grit. His innovative slide guitar technique and passionate vocal delivery left an indelible mark on the industry, influencing legions of musicians for generations to come. Cemented in pop culture through numerous appearances in films, documentaries, and even postage stamps, his legacy as a blues icon is indisputable.
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- Damn Right, I've Got the Blues, A Man & the Blues
See: The Best Albums Of Buddy Guy
A master of the electric guitar, this trailblazing musician boasts a brilliant combination of technical prowess and emotional depth in his playing. Instilled with a fiery passion, his distinctive style and legendary showmanship have made him an integral figure in the history of blues music. Infused into pop culture through collaborations and performances with a range of other notable musicians, his impact on the genre is virtually unparalleled.
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- I'll Play the Blues for You, In Session, Thursday Night in San Francisco
See: The Best Albums Of Albert King
As a southpaw guitarist known for his aggressive string-bending and piercing vibrato, this left-handed virtuoso redefined the boundaries of electric blues. Blending a raw, powerful voice with his innovative playing style, he left an indelible mark on the genre and inspired countless rock and blues guitarists. An icon of blues music, his influence can still be heard today in the works of many contemporary artists.
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- The Very Best of Lightnin' Hopkins, Mojo Hand, Texas Blues Giant
See: The Best Albums Of Lightnin' Hopkins
A consummate bluesman, this Texas-born musician developed an idiosyncratic fingerpicking style that remains instantly recognizable to this day. Paired with his gritty, soulful vocals, his highly emotional playing helped define the sound of acoustic blues music. Both an inspiration and influence on later generations of musicians, his iconic status ensured his place in the annals of pop culture history.
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- Good Feelin', Charly Blues Masterworks, Volume 14: T. Bone Shuffle
See: The Best Albums Of T-Bone Walker
Credited with setting the stage for the development of modern electric blues guitar, this pioneering musician dazzled audiences with his innovative playing techniques and raw vocal style. Known for incorporating elements of jazz, swing, and jump blues, he was a trailblazer in creating a distinctive sound that would lay the groundwork for future rock 'n' roll guitarists. His contributions to the genre and popular culture are commemorated in both the Rock and Roll and Blues Halls of Fame.
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- King of the Slide Guitar: The Complete Trumpet, Chief & Fire Sessions, The Classic Early Recordings
See: The Best Albums Of Elmore James
Known as the "king of the slide guitar," this pioneering bluesman left an indelible mark on music history with his fiery playing style and soulful vocals. By pioneering a piercing, electrified slide technique, he helped pave the way for the modern electric blues sound. Beloved by legions of fans and covered by countless artists, his influence on pop culture is undeniable.
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- 11
Willie Dixon
I Am the Blues, Jazz in Paris: Aux Trois Mailletz, I Am the Blues: The Willie Dixon StorySee: The Best Albums Of Willie Dixon
As a prolific songwriter, bassist, and producer, this multifaceted artist played an integral role in shaping the Chicago blues scene during its golden age. Responsible for penning countless classic blues songs, his compositions were covered by numerous artists and remain staples of the genre to this day. A true ambassador of the blues, his impact on both the music and pop culture at large is immeasurable.
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- Today!, I'm Satisfied, Last Sessions
This acoustic blues icon helped define the fingerpicking guitar style with his intricate, melodic technique and gentle, soothing voice. As a key figure in the rediscovery of the "country blues" sound during the 1960s, he introduced a new generation to the roots of the genre. Even after his death, his music continues to captivate audiences and inspire countless artists, ensuring his place in blues history and pop culture.
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- Couldn't Stand the Weather, In Step, Texas Flood
See: The Best Albums Of Stevie Ray Vaughan
Widely lauded as one of the most talented guitarists of his generation, this Texas-born musician revitalized the blues scene with his innovative playing style and raw, unadulterated passion. As a driving force behind the resurgence of blues music in the 1980s, he brought the genre back into the mainstream and inspired a new generation of musicians. His untimely death only served to cement his legendary status, as his music and influence continue to thrive in popular culture.
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- 14
Sonny Boy Williamson II
One Way Out, Don’t Send Me No Flowers, His BestSee: The Best Albums Of Sonny Boy Williamson II
With a virtuosic command of the harmonica, this charismatic performer helped to popularize the instrument in blues music and beyond. A sought-after sideman as well as a successful solo artist, his legendary performances and recordings left a lasting impact on the blues landscape. An enduring presence in popular culture through film and television appearances, his contributions to the genre remain celebrated today.
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- First Rays of the New Rising Sun, Band of Gypsys, Voodoo Child: The Jimi Hendrix Collection
See: The Best Albums Of Jimi Hendrix
Widely regarded as one of the greatest guitarists of all time, this innovative musician melded electric blues with psychedelic rock to create an entirely new sound. Known for his groundbreaking use of feedback, distortion, and unique chord structures, he propelled the blues into uncharted territory and beyond. As a true icon of popular culture, his music continues to captivate and inspire generations of musicians and fans alike.
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- 461 Ocean Boulevard, Crossroads, Pilgrim
See: The Best Albums Of Eric Clapton
A veritable blues-rock icon, this revered guitarist's immense talent and versatility have earned him a place among the pantheon of all-time greats. Widely recognized for his emotive playing style, he has consistently pushed the boundaries of blues music throughout his storied career. Now a fixture in pop culture through his numerous hits, collaborations, and accolades, his impact on the genre is truly unparalleled.
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- At Last!, Tell Mama, I'd Rather Go Blind
See: The Best Albums Of Etta James
With a voice that combined raw power and emotional depth, this legendary singer became an enduring symbol of blues and soul music. Her dynamic stage presence and undeniable talent made her a favorite among fans and fellow musicians alike, helping to solidify her place in music history. As an indisputable icon of popular culture, her influence can still be felt today, both in the world of blues and beyond.
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- I Love the Woman / Hide Away, Getting Ready..., Live at the Electric Ballroom
See: The Best Albums Of Freddie King
An electrifying performer, this Texas-born guitarist captivated audiences with his blistering solos and soulful vocals. A key figure in the development of the modern blues sound, his innovative playing techniques made him an inspiration for many guitarists that followed. Cemented in pop culture through hits and numerous accolades, his legacy as a blues great continues to live on.
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- Delta Blues, The Legendary 1941/42 Recordings in Chronological Sequence, Martin Scorsese Presents the Blues: Son House
See: The Best Albums Of Son House
As one of the early pioneers of Delta blues, this influential musician helped lay the groundwork for the genre with his powerful, raw vocal style and emotive slide guitar playing. His impact on other blues greats like Muddy Waters and Robert Johnson is well-documented, highlighting the lasting influence he had on the development of the genre. Today, his music remains a touchstone for fans and musicians alike, ensuring his place in both blues history and popular culture.
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- Boss Blues Harmonica, Confessin' the Blues, Super Blues
See: The Best Albums Of Little Walter
A true pioneer of the harmonica, this virtuoso redefined the capabilities of the instrument in blues music with his innovative use of amplification and groundbreaking techniques. As a key member of Muddy Waters' band and a successful solo artist in his own right, his contributions to the genre are immeasurable. Today, his distinctive sound and unique style continue to inspire musicians and captivate fans around the world.
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- The Birth of Soul, Modern Sounds in Country and Western Music, The Spirit of Christmas
See: The Best Albums Of Ray Charles
This trailblazing musician effortlessly blended elements of blues, gospel, jazz, and R&B to create a sound that was uniquely his own. Known for his soulful voice and extraordinary piano playing, he captivated audiences around the world, earning him the nickname "the Genius." A true icon of popular culture, his music continues to influence artists across genres and leave an indelible mark on the world of blues.
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- Bo Diddley, Super Blues, His Best
As an innovative guitarist and songwriter, this iconic musician played a crucial role in the development of rock 'n' roll, incorporating blues, R&B, and African rhythms into his distinctive sound. Known for his signature rectangular guitar and infectious rhythm, he left an indelible mark on the music industry, inspiring countless artists who followed. An enduring presence in popular culture, his influence on both the blues and rock 'n' roll is undeniable.
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- Collins Mix: The Best Of, Showdown!, Ice Pickin'
See: The Best Albums Of Albert Collins
Affectionately known as the "Iceman" or "Master of the Telecaster," this influential bluesman helped define the sound of modern electric blues with his unique guitar technique and biting tone. Combining incredible technical prowess with raw, emotional depth, his playing left an indelible mark on the genre and inspired a legion of musicians. With a lasting impact on blues music and popular culture, his contributions to the industry are undeniable.
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- Lady in Satin, Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Holiday at Newport, The Best of Billie Holiday
See: The Best Albums Of Billie Holiday
One of the greatest singers in the history of American music, this iconic artist's emotive vocals and rich, expressive style captured the essence of the blues. Known for her innate ability to convey emotion through her voice, she transcended genres and left a lasting impact on both blues and jazz music. An enduring symbol of popular culture, her influence continues to resonate with artists and fans alike.
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- #34 of 554 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of All Time, Ranked
- Sweeter as the Years Go By, The Soul of a Man, Praise God I'm Satisfied
As an early pioneer of slide guitar, this influential musician helped shape the future of blues music with his unique fingerpicking style and soulful vocal delivery. Despite experiencing tragic personal hardships, he persevered and crafted hauntingly beautiful songs that remain timeless classics of the genre. Today, his music continues to captivate audiences and inspire musicians around the world, ensuring his place in popular culture and the pantheon of blues greats.
- Sassy Mama, Big Mama Swing, The Original Hound Dog
See: The Best Big Mama Thornton Albums
This larger-than-life singer possessed a powerful, gravelly voice that perfectly embodied the spirit of the blues. One of the first female artists to break through in the male-dominated genre, her trailblazing performances inspired many women who followed in her footsteps. An enduring presence in popular culture, she remains a celebrated figure in both the world of blues and beyond.
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- Otis Blue: Otis Redding Sings Soul, The Dock of the Bay, The Immortal Otis Redding
Widely regarded as one of the most powerful and passionate singers in the history of soul music, this iconic artist effortlessly infused his performances with elements of the blues. With his distinctive, emotive voice and electrifying stage presence, he left an indelible mark on the musical landscape. As a beloved figure in pop culture, his influence continues to be felt in the worlds of blues, soul, and beyond.
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- Complete Recorded Works in Chronological Order, Volume 1: 1925–1926, Complete Recorded Works in Chronological Order
As one of the earliest and most influential figures in the development of Texas blues, this legendary musician's rich vocal style and intricate guitar work laid the groundwork for generations of artists to come. Though his life was tragically cut short, his recordings continue to captivate audiences and serve as a testament to his immense talent. Recognized in both the Blues Hall of Fame and pop culture, his impact on the genre is undeniable.
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- The Best of Johnny Winter, Anthology, Livin' in the Blues
See: The Best Albums Of Johnny Winter
A virtuoso guitarist and singer known for his fiery performances and lightning-fast fingerpicking, this Texas-born bluesman took the music world by storm. His fusion of blues, rock, and psychedelic elements paved the way for a new generation of musicians and helped bring the blues into the mainstream. With a lasting impact on both the genre and popular culture, his contributions to the industry are truly unparalleled.
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- Nothing but the Blues: You Do Me Any Old Way, Where Did You Sleep Last Night: Lead Belly Legacy, Volume 1
Better known as "Lead Belly," this influential musician's powerful voice and distinctive 12-string guitar playing made him a seminal figure in the world of folk and blues music. An accomplished songwriter and performer, he left behind a treasure trove of songs that continue to inspire artists across genres. Despite his troubled past, his enduring legacy as a beloved figure in popular culture remains unshaken.
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- Squeeze Me, The World's Greatest Blues Singer, 1923-1933 Empress of the Blues
See: The Best Albums Of Bessie Smith
Dubbed the "Empress of the Blues," this pioneering singer's powerful voice and emotive delivery made her one of the most successful artists of her time. As an early ambassador of the genre, she introduced the world to the depth, passion, and power of blues music. Today, her status as a music icon and an enduring influence on popular culture remains firmly intact.
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- Duane Allman: An Anthology, Skydog: The Duane Allman Retrospective, Ton-Ton Macoute!
An extraordinarily talented guitarist, this founding member of the Allman Brothers Band brought a fresh, innovative approach to the blues, incorporating elements of rock, jazz, and soul. Known for his mastery of slide guitar and live improvisation, he left a lasting impact on both the genre and his fellow musicians. Tragically taken before his time, his influence continues to resonate in popular culture and the world of blues music.
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- Big Boss Man, The Vee-Jay Box: The Complete Singles and Other Rarities, Ain't That Loving You Baby: Singles As & Bs 1953-1961
See: The Best Albums Of Jimmy Reed
An influential figure in the Chicago blues scene, this artist's distinctive harmonica and guitar playing, paired with his laidback vocal style, made him a favorite among fans and fellow musicians alike. His importance to the world of blues music is undeniable, as his innovative sound paved the way for many artists who followed in his footsteps. As a towering presence in popular culture, his influence can still be felt today.
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- The Rough Guide to Blues Legends: Charley Patton, Founder of the Delta Blues, This Is the Blues
See: The Best Albums Of Charlie Patton
Often referred to as the "Father of the Delta Blues," this pioneering musician's innovative guitar work and powerful vocal delivery laid the foundation for the genre we know today. His music, infused with raw emotion and timeless melodies, remains a touchstone for fans and artists alike. A true legend of the blues, his impact on popular culture and the music industry is immeasurable.
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- You Gotta Move, The Best of Mississippi Fred McDowell, I Do Not Play No Rock 'n' Roll
As an influential figure in the development of the Delta blues, this talented slide guitarist's raw, emotive playing style left an indelible mark on the genre. His music, characterized by a powerful vocal delivery and haunting melodies, has endured the test of time and remains a touchstone for blues fans and musicians alike. Cemented in popular culture through numerous tributes and covers, his contributions to the industry are truly timeless.
- Giant Step / De Ole Folks at Home, Kulanjan, The Real Thing
A true innovator in the world of blues, this versatile musician incorporates diverse global influences into his unique sound. As an accomplished vocalist, guitarist, and multi-instrumentalist, he continually pushes the boundaries of the genre, introducing fans to new styles and techniques. Recognized in popular culture for his extensive catalog and numerous collaborations, his contributions to the industry are truly legendary.
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- Driving Towards the Daylight, A New Day Yesterday, Seesaw
A modern-day blues icon, this virtuosic guitarist and singer has earned his place among the greats with his fiery performances and masterful musicianship. With a deep understanding and respect for the genre's rich history, he seamlessly combines traditional blues with modern rock elements, introducing a new generation of fans to the music. As a beloved figure in popular culture, his influence continues to grow and shape the future of the blues.
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- Rocking in Chicago 1949-53, Volume 2 The Post War Years, Nothing But the Blues: Mississippi River Blues
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As a pioneer of the Chicago blues scene, this versatile musician and songwriter helped to define the sound of the genre with his melodic playing and soulful vocals. Revered by fellow musicians and fans alike, his influence on both the blues and popular culture is undeniable. Though he passed away more than six decades ago, his music continues to endure, captivating new generations of listeners with its timeless appeal.
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- Heritage of the Blues: No Monkeys on This Train, A Ass Pocket of Whiskey, Burnside on Burnside
A late bloomer in the blues world, this Mississippi-born singer and guitarist made a lasting impact on the genre with his distinctive, hypnotic style. Drawing on the raw, emotional intensity of the Delta blues, his music has captivated audiences and influenced countless artists. Enshrined in popular culture through film and television appearances, his contributions to the industry are celebrated today and will continue to inspire future generations.
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- Deuce, Jinx, Tattoo
Renowned for his extraordinary guitar skills and passionate live performances, this Irish blues-rock musician commanded the stage and captivated audiences worldwide. His ability to merge blues, rock, and Celtic influences into a unique sound helped to introduce countless fans to the genre. Though he passed away at a young age, his legacy as an influential figure in music history and pop culture lives on.
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- Right Place, Wrong Time, Blues Masters
A key figure in the development of the Chicago blues scene, this talented guitarist and singer left an indelible mark on the genre with his powerful, emotive playing style and soulful voice. As an inspiration for countless musicians, his impact on the industry is undeniable. Though he passed away in 2018, his music continues to captivate audiences and influence popular culture.
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- The Very Best of Nina Simone, Nina Simone Sings the Blues, At Carnegie Hall
Infusing elements of blues, jazz, and soul into her inimitable style, this legendary singer and pianist became one of the most influential voices of her generation. With her powerful, emotive performances and fearless activism, she left an indelible mark on the music industry and popular culture as a whole. Celebrated today for her timeless artistry, her influence on the world of blues remains unparalleled.
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- Blues Breakers With Eric Clapton, Blues Breakers With Eric Clapton, Road Dogs
As a pioneering British blues band led by singer, keyboardist, and harmonica player John Mayall, this influential group served as a launchpad for many of the genre's most celebrated musicians. Their innovative fusion of blues, rock, and jazz helped define a new sound and introduced countless fans to the music. An enduring presence in popular culture, their contributions to the industry continue to resonate with musicians and fans alike.
- A Night of the Blues, The Real Blues, Messin' With the Kid: Junior Wells 1957-1963
See: The Best Albums Of Junior Wells
An influential harmonica player and singer, this artist's innovative approach to the Chicago blues sound made him a legend in his own right. Known for his compelling stage presence and heartfelt vocal delivery, he left an indelible mark on the genre, influencing countless musicians to come. With numerous accolades and a lasting impact on both popular culture and the blues industry, his legacy as a blues great lives on.
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- Mr. McTell Got the Blues, Complete Recorded Works in Chronological Order, Volume 2: 23 October 1931 to 19 September 1933
A pioneering blues artist known for his distinctive fingerpicking guitar style and expressive vocal delivery, this talented musician helped pave the way for future generations of blues musicians. Often referred to as one of the most talented and versatile artists of his time, he left behind a treasure trove of timeless songs that remain classics of the genre. Today, his music continues to inspire artists and fans alike, ensuring his place in both popular culture and blues history.
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- The End of the Game, In the Skies, White Sky
An innovative guitarist and a founding member of Fleetwood Mac, this talented musician brought a fresh, soulful approach to the blues. Highly regarded for his fluid playing and emotive vocal style, he earned a place among the greats of the genre. Though he struggled with personal demons throughout his life, his music continues to captivate audiences and influence popular culture.
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- Sugar Mama, Nothing but the Blues, The Blues: Chicago 1937-1945
As one of the pioneering harmonica players in the world of blues, this trailblazing musician popularized the instrument with his innovative techniques and distinctive vocal style. His music, characterized by a blend of traditional blues and early R&B sounds, has resonated with fans and musicians alike for generations. Although he passed away more than seven decades ago, his presence in popular culture and his influence on the blues genre remain undeniable.
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- About Them Shoes, I Know You, Kings of Chicago BluesHubert Charles Sumlin (November 16, 1931 – December 4, 2011) was a Chicago blues guitarist and singer, best known for his "wrenched, shattering bursts of notes, sudden cliff-hanger silences and daring rhythmic suspensions" as a member of Howlin' Wolf's band. He was ranked number 43 in Rolling Stone's "100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time".More Hubert Sumlin
- #249 of 536 onThe 540+ World's Greatest Guitarists Of All Time, Ranked
- #22 of 154 onThe Best Electric Blues Artists
- #10 of 114 onThe Best Chicago Blues Bands/Artists
- The Complete Early Recordings of Skip James, She Lyin', Today!Nehemiah Curtis "Skip" James (June 9, 1902 – October 3, 1969) was an American Delta blues singer, guitarist, pianist and songwriter. His guitar playing is noted for its dark, minor-key sound, played in an open D-minor tuning with an intricate fingerpicking technique. James first recorded for Paramount Records in 1931, but these recordings sold poorly, having been released during the Great Depression, and he drifted into obscurity. After a long absence from the public eye, James was rediscovered in 1964 by blues enthusiasts, helping further the blues and folk music revival of the 1950s and early 1960s. During this period, James appeared at folk and blues festivals, gave concerts around the country and recorded several albums for various record labels. His songs have influenced generations of musicians and have been adapted by numerous artists. He has been hailed as "one of the seminal figures of the blues."More Skip James
- #326 of 536 onThe 540+ World's Greatest Guitarists Of All Time, Ranked
- #29 of 62 onWho Is The Most Famous James In The World?
- #20 of 114 onThe 100+ Best Bluesy Country Artists, Ranked
- Two Steps From the Blues, Two Steps From the Blues & Here's the Man, Ask Me 'Bout NothingRobert Calvin Bland (né Robert Calvin Brooks; January 27, 1930 – June 23, 2013), known professionally as Bobby "Blue" Bland, was an American blues singer. Bland developed a sound that mixed gospel with the blues and R&B. He was described as "among the great storytellers of blues and soul music... [who] created tempestuous arias of love, betrayal and resignation, set against roiling, dramatic orchestrations, and left the listener drained but awed." He was sometimes referred to as the "Lion of the Blues" and as the "Sinatra of the Blues". His music was also influenced by Nat King Cole.Bland was inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame in 1981, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1992, and the Memphis Music Hall of Fame in 2012. He received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1997. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame described him as "second in stature only to B.B. King as a product of Memphis's Beale Street blues scene".More Bobby Bland
- #428 of 556 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of All Time, Ranked
- #729 of 863 onThe 250+ Greatest Rock Bands Of All Time, Ranked
- #226 of 239 onEvery Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Inductee, Ranked
- At Fillmore East, Beginnings, Eat a PeachThe Allman Brothers Band, an American rock group, originated in Jacksonville, Florida in 1969. The founding members were brothers Duane Allman and Gregg Allman, along with Dickey Betts, Berry Oakley, Butch Trucks, and Jai Johanny "Jaimoe" Johanson. The band's unique blend of blues, jazz, country, and rock'n'roll, coupled with their exceptional musicianship, resulted in a sound that was transformative to the landscape of rock music. Their extensive improvisational sessions during performances set the precedent for many other jam bands to follow. Duane Allman's tragic death in a motorcycle accident in 1971 marked a significant turning point. Even though the band was bereaved, they continued to produce music and achieved commercial success with the album Eat a Peach. This included tracks recorded before Duane's death, showcasing his laudable slide guitar work. Tragedy struck again when Berry Oakley also died in a similar motorcycle accident just a year after Duane, leaving the band to regroup and move forward. Despite numerous lineup changes over the years, The Allman Brothers Band remained a prominent force in music for more than four decades. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1995, highlighting their significant impact on the genre. The band's final concert took place in October 2014, marking the end of a powerful musical journey filled with great highs and devastating lows. Their influence continues to resonate in the world of music, solidifying their legacy as pioneers of Southern rock.
- #214 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists Of All Time, Ranked
- #64 of 863 onThe 250+ Greatest Rock Bands Of All Time, Ranked
- #36 of 283 onThe Greatest Live Bands of All Time
- Flippin' out: Essential Recordings, American Music, Texas StyleClarence "Gatemouth" Brown (April 18, 1924 – September 10, 2005) was an American musician from Louisiana and Texas known for his work as a blues musician, as well as other styles of music. He spent his career fighting purism by synthesizing old blues, country, jazz, Cajun music and R&B styles. His work also encompasses rock and roll, rock music, folk music, electric blues, and Texas blues.He was an acclaimed multi-instrumentalist, who played an array of musical instruments, including the guitar, fiddle, mandolin, viola, harmonica and drums. He won a Grammy Award for Best Traditional Blues Album in 1983 for his album, Alright Again!. He is regarded as one of the most influential exponents of blues fiddle and has had enormous influence in American fiddle circles. Brown's two biggest musical influences were Louis Jordan and T-Bone Walker.
- #261 of 536 onThe 540+ World's Greatest Guitarists Of All Time, Ranked
- #29 of 49 onThe Best Country Singers From Louisiana
- #38 of 68 onThe Best Cajun Bands/Artists
- Still Got the Blues, Run for Cover, And Then the Man Said to His Guitar...
Hailing from Northern Ireland, this prodigious guitarist seamlessly fused blues, rock, and metal influences to create a truly unique sound. Known for his electrifying live performances and emotive playing style, he inspired generations of guitarists and garnered a devoted following in the process. Despite his untimely death, his music continues to captivate audiences and leave a lasting imprint on popular culture.
More Gary Moore- #392 of 554 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of All Time, Ranked
- #252 of 863 onThe 250+ Greatest Rock Bands Of All Time, Ranked
- #34 of 536 onThe 540+ World's Greatest Guitarists Of All Time, Ranked
- Force of Nature, Koko Taylor, From the Heart of a WomanKoko Taylor (born Cora Anna Walton, September 28, 1928 – June 3, 2009) was an American singer whose style encompassed Chicago blues, electric blues, rhythm and blues and soul blues. Sometimes called "The Queen of the Blues", she was known for her rough, powerful vocals.More Koko Taylor
- #523 of 554 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of All Time, Ranked
- #246 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists Of All Time, Ranked
- #112 of 117 onThe Greatest Black Female Singers
- Pearl, Big Brother & The Holding Company, Greatest Hits
A true force of nature, this incomparable singer possessed a raw, powerful voice that embodied the spirit of the blues. As a trailblazer in the male-dominated music industry of her time, she broke barriers and paved the way for many female artists who followed. Despite her tragic death at the age of 27, her legend lives on as an icon of popular culture, and her influence on the world of blues music remains profound.
More Janis Joplin- Dig Deeper...Members of The 27 Club
- #18 of 320 onThe 300+ Best Rock Singers Of All Time, Ranked
- #44 of 554 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of All Time, Ranked
- Lady Soul, I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You, Young
Best known as the "Queen of Soul," this iconic artist's powerful voice and emotive performances effortlessly incorporated the spirit and essence of the blues. Her unmatched talent and passionate delivery made her a trailblazer in the music industry, inspiring countless musicians who followed in her footsteps. A beloved figure in popular culture, her influence on the world of blues music and beyond is indisputable.
More Aretha Franklin- Dig Deeper...250+ Famous Aries Celebrities
- #2 of 554 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of All Time, Ranked
- #111 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists Of All Time, Ranked
- Don't Be Afraid of the Dark, Sweet Potato Pie, The Blues Collection 25: Who's Been Talkin'Robert William Cray (born August 1, 1953) is an American blues guitarist and singer. He has led his own band and won five Grammy Awards.More Robert Cray
- #60 of 536 onThe 540+ World's Greatest Guitarists Of All Time, Ranked
- #66 of 385 onThe Greatest Lead Guitarists Of All Time
- #63 of 149 onThe (Male) Singer You Most Wish You Could Sound Like
- The Paul Butterfield Blues Band, In My Own Dream, The Original Lost Elektra SessionsThe Paul Butterfield Blues Band is a musical group.
- #217 of 239 onEvery Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Inductee, Ranked
- #226 of 238 onThe Greatest Classic Rock Bands Of All Time, Ranked
- #16 of 53 onThe 40+ Best Blues Rock Bands, Ranked
- Empty Rooms, Blues Breakers With Eric Clapton, Road DogsJohn Mayall, OBE (born 29 November 1933) is an English blues singer, guitarist, organist and songwriter, whose musical career spans over sixty years. In the 1960s, he was the founder of John Mayall & the Bluesbreakers, a band which has counted among its members some of the most famous blues and blues rock musicians.More John Mayall
- #287 of 863 onThe 250+ Greatest Rock Bands Of All Time, Ranked
- #33 of 40 onOld Singers You Didn't Realize Are Still Alive
- #33 of 154 onThe Best Electric Blues Artists
- Best of the Verve Years, Cotton Mouth Man, Best of the Vanguard YearsJames Henry Cotton (July 1, 1935 – March 16, 2017) was an American blues harmonica player, singer and songwriter, who performed and recorded with many of the great blues artists of his time and with his own band. He played drums early in his career but is famous for his harmonica playing. Cotton began his professional career playing the blues harp in Howlin' Wolf's band in the early 1950s. He made his first recordings in Memphis for Sun Records, under the direction of Sam Phillips. In 1955, he was recruited by Muddy Waters to come to Chicago and join his band. Cotton became Waters's bandleader and stayed with the group until 1965. In 1965 he formed the Jimmy Cotton Blues Quartet, with Otis Spann on piano, to record between gigs with the Muddy Waters band. He eventually left to form his own full-time touring group. His first full album, on Verve Records, was produced by the guitarist Mike Bloomfield and the singer and songwriter Nick Gravenites, who later were members of the band Electric Flag.In the 1970s, Cotton played harmonica on Muddy Waters' Grammy Award–winning 1977 album Hard Again, produced by Johnny Winter.More James Cotton
- #264 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists Of All Time, Ranked
- #2302 of 3,182 onThe Most Influential People Of All Time
- #12 of 114 onThe Best Chicago Blues Bands/Artists