Roundup of Famous Overseas Blues Guitarists
Have you ever come across a song, or a part of a song, being described as “bluesy” while listening to rock or pop? There are many forms of the blues, which is said to be the origin of jazz and rock, and its style can’t be summed up in a single phrase.
Still, those plaintive phrases that evoke the sorrowful historical backdrop in which the blues was born feel distinctly “bluesy,” don’t they? This time, we’re spotlighting legendary guitarists who represent the blues—icons every beginner should know first, along with guitarists who’ve been gaining attention in recent years.
The soulful playing of these blues guitarists might just change your outlook on life!
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Summary of Famous Overseas Blues Guitarists (21–30)
Drinking WineMike Bloomfield
Mike Bloomfield, the legendary guitarist who epitomized 1960s blues rock.
It’s well known that with his arrival, Chicago—once centered on acoustic blues—became a mecca for electric blues.
This track is a quintessential Chicago-style jump blues, and Mike delivers a sprightly solo.
Hey HeyBig Bill Broonzy
The sound he draws from his acoustic guitar commands respect from other blues musicians.
He renders incredibly intense phrases with gentleness and warmth.
Many tracks even include the stomping of his leather shoes—and that, too, is pleasing to the ear.
Love In VainMick Taylor
From the late 1960s to the early 1970s, the Rolling Stones were exploring authentic blues.
They were able to do this precisely because Mick Taylor was an exceptionally high-level blues guitarist.
If you listen to Robert Johnson’s “Love in Vain,” you can clearly understand how significant Mick Taylor’s presence was.
TIME HAS COMEJoanne Shaw Taylor
His beautiful girlfriend was born in the UK.
She picked up the guitar at just eight years old, fell in love with the blues inspired by Albert Collins and Stevie Ray Vaughan, and was later discovered by Dave Stewart.
After that, she joined a tour as a supporting guitarist for D.U.P., a crew that included Jimmy Cliff.
Dave reportedly exclaimed in surprise when he learned her age upon first seeing her.
She was already famous in the UK as a prodigy girl guitarist.
Nowadays, she’s active touring with labels like Ruf Records, among other activities.
Goin’ to ChicagoT-Bone Walker
This play, which doesn’t look particularly difficult as a visual performance—like fast guitar shredding—actually has many charms.
The contrast from playing very softly to very loudly is striking, and that’s the mark of a genuine, seasoned bluesman.
Going Down The Road Feeling BadJohn Mayer
John Mayer has become an indispensable figure not only in the blues scene but in contemporary American music as a whole.
Still, his roots in the blues remain unchanged.
Even in this song, which seems to nod to Southern rock, you can savor his exceptional technique and rich blues feeling.
Feel So BadLittle Milton
Little Milton, born in 1934, is an artist who stands as a leading figure of the Memphis blues.
His music is often perceived as somewhere between blues and R&B, but when you listen to this track, I think you’ll realize it’s not a “middle ground” but a true “hybrid.”