10 Albums a New Blues Rock Fan Should Hear
Embarking on a journey into the world of blues rock is like discovering a musical treasure trove filled with soul-stirring melodies, electrifying guitar solos, and heartfelt lyrics. For newcomers to the genre, diving into its rich history can be both exhilarating and overwhelming. To help guide your exploration, here are 10 essential albums that every new blues rock fan should hear.
Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble: Texas Flood (1983)
Vaughan’s debut album is a tour de force of scorching guitar solos and Texas blues with mindblowing energy. Texas Flood not only revitalized the blues rock scene in the 1980s but also solidified Vaughan as a guitar virtuoso whose influence continues to resonate today. Tracks like “Pride and Joy” and “Love Struck Baby” not only showcase Vaughan’s technical prowess but also his ability to infuse raw emotion into every note, leaving an indelible mark on listeners long after the music fades. Texas Flood was recorded at Jackson Browne’s home studio.
Albert King: Born Under a Bad Sign (1967)
Albert King’s Born Under a Bad Sign on Stax Records is a seminal release that helped define the sound of electric blues, with each track dripping with raw emotion and gritty authenticity. Born Under a Bad Sign remains a timeless classic, with King’s powerful vocals and searing guitar licks painting vivid pictures of hardship and resilience. From the title track’s iconic riff to the soulful groove of “Crosscut Saw,” this album continues to inspire generations of musicians and blues enthusiasts alike. Enter a random blues gig and there’s a good chance you may hear a cover of the title track.
Derek and the Dominos: Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs (1970)
Led by Eric Clapton and featuring Duane Allman on slide guitar, “Layla” is more than just an album—it’s a sonic journey through love, longing, and redemption. From the hauntingly beautiful title track, inspired by Clapton’s unrequited love for Pattie Boyd, to the blues-infused rock of “Key to the Highway,” each song on this album is a masterpiece in its own right. With Clapton’s emotive vocals and Allman’s soulful slide guitar weaving through every track, “Layla” transcends the boundaries of blues rock, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of listeners around the world.
John Mayall & the Bluesbreakers: The Bluesbreakers with Eric Clapton (1966)
Known as the “Beano Album,” this release not only introduced Clapton’s guitar work to the world but also set a new standard for blues rock. Mayall’s compositions provide the perfect canvas for Clapton’s electrifying solos, with tracks like “Hideaway” and “All Your Love” showcasing Clapton’s virtuosity and emotional depth. As Clapton’s first major recording, this album laid the foundation for his legendary career while solidifying his status as one of the greatest guitarists of all time.
Robin Trower: Bridge of Sighs (1974)
Robin Trower’s Bridge of Sighs is a sonic masterpiece that effortlessly blends blues, rock, and psychedelia into a mesmerizing tapestry of sound. This album from the underrated guitar wizard takes listeners on a transcendental journey through Robin Trower’s musical universe. Tracks like “Day of the Eagle” and “Bridge of Sighs” showcase Trower’s ability to evoke raw emotion through his emotive playing and soulful vocals, making each song a captivating experience that lingers long after the final chord.
ZZ Top: Tres Hombres (1973)
ZZ Top’s Tres Hombres is a gritty and groovy masterpiece that captures everything blues rock is about with unbridled energy and swagger. From the infectious boogie of “La Grange” to the soulful balladry of “Jesus Just Left Chicago,” this album showcases the band’s dynamic range and impeccable musicianship. With its irresistible hooks and infectious rhythms, Tres Hombres is a standout moment for one of the greatest blues rock bands of all time, cementing their place in music history with every riff and rhythm.
The Black Keys: El Camino (2011)
El Camino is a modern blues rock masterpiece, blending gritty guitar riffs, infectious hooks, and raw energy into an unforgettable listening experience. Stand out tracks like “Lonely Boy” and “Gold on the Ceiling” infuse a blues rock sound with a contemporary edge. Dan Auerbach and Patrick Carney accomplished a feat with El Camino that very few artists have, push blues rock into the mainstream. El Camino is an album that can be loved by anyone.
Cream: Disraeli Gears (1967)
Cream’s Disraeli Gears is a psychedelic blues rock masterpiece that pushed the boundaries of the genre with its innovative sound and groundbreaking compositions. Led by the virtuosic trio of Eric Clapton, Jack Bruce, and Ginger Baker, the album features iconic tracks like “Sunshine of Your Love” and “Strange Brew,” which showcase the band’s impeccable musicianship and improvisational prowess. With its swirling melodies and electrifying solos, Disraeli Gears remains a landmark album in the history of blues rock, influencing countless artists and shaping the course of popular music for decades to come.
Robert Cray: Strong Persuader (1986)
Robert Cray’s Strong Persuader helped push blues rock to a more mainstream audience in the 1980s. The album won the Grammy for “Best Contemporary Blues Album.” “Smoking Gun” was a massive hit reaching #2 on the Billboard rock charts and an MTV Video Music Award nomination. With slick production and timeless songwriting, Strong Persuader not only garnered critical acclaim but also introduced a new generation of listeners to the power and passion of blues music.
Gary Clark Jr.: Blak and Blu (2012)
Blak and Blu marks Gary Clark Jr.’s bold full-length debut into the blues rock scene, showcasing his eclectic blend of traditional blues, soul, and contemporary rock influences. There’s even some hop influence for those new to the genre making it an accessible entry point for many. With tracks like “Bright Lights” and “When My Train Pulls In,” Clark Jr. delivers memorable guitar riffs and songs. The album’s diversity shines through in songs like “Numb” and “Please Come Home,” where Clark Jr. effortlessly transitions between gritty blues and smooth R&B, demonstrating his versatility as a musician. Blak and Blu not only solidifies Clark Jr.’s place as a torchbearer for modern blues rock but also propels the genre forward with its innovative sound and electrifying energy.
Good list, but I think you should’ve included at least 1 Johnny Winter album -maybe the “Progressive Blues Experiment”…….
Bass player on Progressive Blues Experiment? None other than Tommy Shannon who went on to play bass with Stevie Ray Vaughan from Texas Flood till the end!
Texas flood is a great album but what about Stevie Ray Vaughan & double trouble live at Montreux
The best ????
My thoughts entirely
How could there not be anything by the Allman Brothers?
I’m sorry but what about Led Zeppelin, the very 1st album.
They suck
Damn, Bro, you’re a tough audience! While I’m scratching my head seeing Led Zeppelin on a list of Blues bands, I don’t believe I’ve ever heard anyone say they suck! That’s kind of hard to justify considering Stairway to Heaven usually appears as №1 on most classic rock lists. Maybe it’s your opinion that needs work???
You win for the stupidest comment on the internet. ????
You suck
Great album ..Zepp plays some great blues written but some blues greats
Jeff Beck Truth
A hard road the John mayall album with Peter Green
Fleetwood Mac live at the Boston tea party
I agree re: Johnny Winter (maybe White, Hot, & Blue) As much as I like Clapton, one should list anything by him except Layla. How about Me and Mr. Johnson or The Road to Escondido?
all of his bootleg series are worth listening to
Yes, anything by Johnny. Johnny Winter And Live, would be my choice. ‘My Own Fault’ worth the price of admission alone.
Johnny Winter was amazing
I preferred “Second Winter” from the Texas Albino Master.
Johnny Winter the self titled LP should be it.
John Dawson Winter III is great also
Fu¢king A! Second Winter!
Yes on Johnny Winter! But I’d recommend the album “Still Alive and Well”. Incredible and ferocious blending of rock and blues. You haven’t heard blues rock until you’ve listened to this album. A genuine masterpiece. (I think it’s all on Youtube.)
Totally agree.
Put “SHOW DOWN” on your homework list. Cray, Copeland, and Collins
I agree but I would add a tito and the tarantulas. Great blues rock also Los lobos greatest hits
I’m not a fan of Gary Clark Jr. or Black Keys. How about Johnny Winter and Gary Moore?
You forgot Rory Gallagher
Fair play to you, nice to see Rory isn’t forgotten, he was up there with the best of them
Thank you, Edmond – believe Eric Clapton credited Rory Gallagher with bringing him “back to the blues”…
Irish tour 74 for sure
For Sure – it’s 21st century everyone, enough time to shine well deserved light on Rory G!
Got to be Irish tour 74
TRUTH JEFF BECK IS A MUST
Without a doubt, Johnny Winter. Taj Mahal & some Joe Bonamasa
Definitely Joe B Blues Deluxe
What about Peter Green?
Green should be near the top as greatest blues rock artist along with Paul kossoff.
No Walter Trout? Or Aynsley Lister?
Where did you find Ainsley Lister? He’s one of UK. Blues Rock best kept secrets. Every album he has made is a gift of blues and he’s a very young man to be able to play beautiful guitar as well as sing meaningful lyrics. He will be in Omaha Nebraska This coming July,11,along with another Scots Blues Band, King King. Watch a taster (The Nimmo Bros. at the Blue Moose Cafe, Black Cat Bone on utube.)This is a treat especially if both Nimmo Brothers are playing. The entire line up is a well balanced event. Don’t miss it. Excellent observation Danny Gray.
Joe Cocker – Mad Dogs and Englishmen
Walter Trout for sure and Kenny Wayne Shepard Buddy Guy
Keef Hartley, Halfbreed
Led Zepplin 1
Bloodwyn Pig
Paul Butterfield
Susan Tedeschi
Koko Taylor
Agree totally about Keef Hartley. One of the great blues albums of all time.
OMG-
Bonnie Raitt 1st Album
Janis Joplin
Where did you find Ainsley Lister? He’s one of UK. Blues Rock best kept secrets. Every album he has made is a gift of blues and he’s a very young man to be able to play beautiful guitar as well as sing meaningful lyrics. He will be in Omaha Nebraska This coming July,11,along with another Scots Blues Band, King King. Watch a taster (The Nimmo Bros. at the Blue Moose Cafe, Black Cat Bone on utube.)This is a treat especially if both Nimmo Brothers are playing. The entire line up is a well balanced event. Don’t miss it. Excellent observation Danny Gray.
Paul Rodgers Muddy Water Blues
Absolutely agree with your choice of PAUL ROGERS. Possibly the greatest blues vocalist of the modern era. Listen to any of his renditions with FREE, the band that truly launched his career.
Sorry bout the double reply.
All these are great, but what about ‘the gunslinger’ Alvin Lee & Ten Years After? Saw them twice. Incredible!
Alvin Lee should be at the top of the list!
First and second albums.
Where’s Rory Gallagher? Maybe the best blues rock white guitarist ever.
Amen! I totally agree!
Your so right about Rory.the best white blues player ever
To right, Seen Him Live, Nobody Could Touch Him,And Everyone Loved Him
Terrifying telecasters and every other player in the joint….Roy Buchanan
????
Super Session must be on list.
Roy Rogers – Blues on the Range
The subject of this article is what albums would you (as a blues-rock fan) play for someone you are trying to introduce to the genre.
With this in mind, in addition to the many superb albums on the article’s list, may I suggest (In no particular order):
“Live Stock” – Roy Buchanan
“Irish Tour ’74” – Rory Gallagher
“Still Got The Blues” – Gary Moore
“Live In NYC ’97” – Johnny Winter
“Hittin’ The Note” – Allman Brothers
“At Fillmore East”- Allman Brothers
Roy buchannon Derek and the dominoes live much better than Layla album and nob duane Allman che k out solos on why does love have to be so sad didn’t like the song until I heard it live
Showdown by Collins, Cray and Copeland
Can’t believe no Jimi Hendrix. Greatest blues, rock guitarist that left us way too soon. No Keith Richards. What about Joe Bonamassa. The list should be 20 rather than 10. Gary Clark hasn’t been around long enough to be on the list.
Amen. I was beginning to wonder about Hendrix and Bonamassa who are my two favorites. Thanks for bringing them to the discussion!
Agreed. No Hendrix? With classics like Machine Gun, Hear My Train A-Coming, Killing Floor?
Travesty to exclude arguably THE best ever!????
I was going to say Joe bonamassa anyone? Why is. He so ovdooked. If. You are saying Joe bonawho?
Youneed to check him out.
.
What about Gary Moore/Rory Gallagher!
Totally agree about Gary Moore and Rory Gallagher. Phenomenal players. Rory was modest, humble and always true to his fans. He came to Belfast Ulster hall every year through the early 70s when no-one else would and was beloved for it. Jeans check shirt and the faithful old Fender Strat. No blues rock collection is complete without 74 Irish tour front and centre.
Mike Bloomfield and Elvin Bishop in the Paul Butterfield Blues Band album East-West .
Yep
Forward In Reverse – Ryan McGarvey – 2007, doesn’t get any better than this.
Luther Allison, “Live from Chicago” is a must listen, also KWS!!
EARLY Fleetwood Mac!!!! Not the pop 40 band it turned into!!!!
Fleetwood Mac The vintage years live!!!!
Black Magic Woman, Green Manaleshi, & Oh Well!!!!!!!
Don’t forget the ladies. We just saw Danielle Nicole!bb
No Gary Moore?
Super Session is a must blues rock album everyone should hear. All three lead performers became known for amazing careers. Mike Bloomfield, Al Kooper, and Stephen Stills
In Session: Albert King and Stevie Ray Vaughan. Also Alligator Records 40th Annaversary album.
Albert King, B.B. King, Coco Montoya, Jeff Healy
East-West by the Paul Butterfield Blues Band – an absolute 60’s masterpiece with the superb guitar work of Mike Bloomfield and Elvin Bishop.
Split – The Groundhogs
Tony McPhee picks up authentic blues and takes it on down the road somewhere interesting.
No Groundhogs or King King! Two of the best! Going to see Robin Trower next month!????
Jimi Hendrix! If you’re going to have a “must listen” list, you got to have him. SRV emulated his sound and covered a lot of his songs. I agree with some of the other commenters that this list is a little Clapton heavy, and don’t get me wrong Clapton is great, but any blues list without Hendrix feels incomplete
Rolling Sones, duh!
Beggar’s Banquet???
C’mon,
Roy Buchanan, Hell, pick one. Anything with The Messiah on it.
Bonnie Raitt, self titled first album but the well is deep with Bonnie.
Humble Pie, Fillmore. More rocking blues soul than any group of humans should be capable of.
Agree with Robin Trower. One of the greatest players who seems to have been forgotten.
Roy Buchanan another great player.
Jimi Hendrix can’t be put in a category. He’s simply the best.
Ten Albums are just not enough!! Try 20!! You can’t leave Jeff Beck, Rory Gallagher,Johnny Winter etc. out of this list!!
Anthony Gomes ‘High Voltage Blues”
Lonnie Mack Attack of the Killer V . Great live album. Lonnie Mack was a big influence on several blues players, most notably Stevie Ray Vaughan. Also love the live concert of Lonnie Mack , Albert Collins, and Roy Buchanan at Carnegie Hall.
If we are talking albums and not full careers, Tracey Chapman- New beginning. Blues with a didgeridoo
I’d include early Groundhogs, Blues Obituary and Split really developed the blues rock sound.
No Fabulous Thunderbirds?? How can they NOT be on this list???
Johnny Winter is number one blues rock guitar for me, just try Jumping Jack Flash 1974, 0GWT – Stones and Pie can’t touch it.
Jimi Hendrix, Robert Johnson, Koko Taylor, Big Momma Thorton & others…..
I hate ranking bands, especially a Top-10. It’s tough when Clayton’s in there 3X. Would like to have seen Gary Moore, Roy Gallagher, Tedeschi-Trucks, Jeff Healy….Aw hell. Just make it 20 albums!
Great suggestions. Just wondering why everyone else has to chime in with their own lame . Nobody cares, people.
You left off The Allman Brothers Band At Filmore East??????????!!!!! That blunder is totally unjustifiable and completely discredits this whole list. And the list has some great ones. The inclusions of Gary Clark Jr and Black Keys before the Allmans and a Johnny Winter or a BB King At the Regal, or even James Brown At the Apollo. Come on, man! This tells me you’re not qualified to be leading anyone into blues, or blues rock.
The Allman Brothers, man damn!! I can’t get over that one. At Filmore is the pinnacle of music.