Blues Musicians Archives - I Love Blues Guitar

Category: Blues Musicians

Debbie Davies – So What
Strings and Soul: How Debbie Davies Helped Me Fall in Love with the Blues All Over Again

There’s a certain joy that hits when you hear a guitarist who doesn’t just play well—they play with feel. That’s how I felt the first time I heard Debbie Davies. It was her cover of “Percolatin’” off her Loose Tonight! album, and right from the opening bars, her tone hit me like sunshine after rain: warm, smooth, full of personality.

I remember thinking, Wait… who is this? And why haven’t I been listening to her for years?
Turns out I’d been missing out on one of the most soulful, tasteful, and criminally underrated blues guitarists of the last few decades.

From California to the Blues Big Leagues

Born in Los Angeles in 1952, Debbie Davies came up through a West Coast blues scene that was all about groove, tone, and authenticity. She cut her teeth playing guitar in bar bands before landing a spot with Albert Collins’ Icebreakers in the late 1980s.

That’s right—Albert freakin’ Collins, the Master of the Telecaster, hand-picked her to be in his band. If that doesn’t tell you something about her chops, I don’t know what will.

But Debbie didn’t stop there. She built a solo career that’s spanned decades, packed with killer albums, razor-sharp playing, and some of the most tasteful phrasing this side of B.B. King.

Her Style: Smooth, Sharp, and Full of Soul

Debbie doesn’t play like she’s out to prove something. She plays like she’s got nothing to prove—just something to share. Her tone is buttery but bold. Her solos are clean, melodic, and always say something. No noodling. No empty flash. Just feel.

She’s got that rare ability to make a guitar sing, laugh, or cry—sometimes all in the same solo. Whether she’s playing slow and moody or up-tempo and funky, you can hear her personality in every note.

And when she sings? It’s honest, unpretentious, and full of warmth. She doesn’t try to overpower you—she draws you in.

The Albums That Converted Me

Debbie Davies’ discography is a goldmine, especially if you love the kind of blues that grooves as much as it moves. Here are a few must-hear records that got me hooked:
- 🎸 Loose Tonight! (1994) – Her breakout solo album, and an instant classic. Full of fire, taste, and toe-tapping swing.
- 🔥 Tales from the Austin Motel (2007) – Recorded in Texas and soaked in that gritty, roadhouse vibe. Raw and real.
- 🎤 Love Spin (2015) – One of her most emotional and musically diverse albums. Features touches of soul, funk, and slow-burning blues.
- 🕺 I Got That Feeling (1997) – A tribute to Albert Collins, and one of the most heartfelt blues records of the ‘90s.
She’s also collaborated with greats like Duke Robillard, Tab Benoit, and Tommy Shannon, always bringing her A-game and lifting the whole band in the process.

Seeing Her Live: Blues with Class and Fire

I saw Debbie Davies live once at a blues fest in the early 2000s, and I still remember how natural she looked onstage. No gimmicks. No big speech. Just a Telecaster, a killer rhythm section, and a woman who knew exactly how to hold a crowd with a single bend.

She’d step up to the mic with a smile, tell a funny story, then dive into a slow 12-bar that had people swaying and closing their eyes. When she lit into a solo, it wasn’t about speed—it was about feel.

That’s her magic—she doesn’t just play for you, she plays with you.

Why Debbie Davies Still Deserves a Spotlight

In a blues world often dominated by flashy playing and louder-is-better thinking, Debbie Davies is a master of restraint, feel, and groove. She’s not out to break records—she’s out to serve the song.

She’s been quietly building a legacy of authenticity and artistry, proving that women in blues don’t have to scream or shred to be taken seriously. They just have to be real—and Debbie is as real as it gets.

She also continues to mentor and uplift other artists, keeping the blues community alive and thriving.

Where to Start If You’re New

Here’s your Debbie Davies starter kit:
- 💿 Loose Tonight! – Her signature sound. Classic.
- 🎧 Love Spin – For the more emotional, modern side.
- 🔊 Tales from the Austin Motel – Raw, roadhouse magic.
- 🥁 I Got That Feeling – A must-hear tribute to her roots.
And definitely check out any live footage you can find—Debbie on stage is where the heart of her blues really shines.

More at debbiedavies.com

Debbie Davies doesn’t play the blues for attention. She plays it for connection. And every time she picks up a guitar, she reminds me why I fell in love with this music in the first place—because when it’s real, it stays with you. And Debbie? She’s as real as it gets.

Thank you

We appreciate your time and dedication to reading our article. For more of the finest blues guitar music, make sure to follow our Facebook page, “I Love Blues Guitar”. We share exceptional selections every day. Thank you once again for your continued support and readership.
June 14, 2025
Cedric Burnside – Please Tell Me Baby
Rhythm, Roots, and Raw Power: How Cedric Burnside Brought Me Back to the Blues

Some blues is polished. Some blues is pretty.
Cedric Burnside’s blues? It’s bone-deep. Dusty. Alive.

The first time I heard him, it wasn’t on a record—it was at a festival. I didn’t even know who he was. Just saw this lean, quiet guy step up to the mic with a guitar slung across his shoulder. Then he opened his mouth. Then he played. And it was like Mississippi itself rolled through the speakers and hit me square in the gut.

That moment reminded me what the blues really is—not just music, but survival. Not just history, but right now. And nobody does that better than Cedric Burnside.

Born in the Hill Country Blues

Cedric Burnside was born into the blues—literally. He’s the grandson of the legendary R.L. Burnside, a pioneer of the North Mississippi hill country sound. But don’t get it twisted—Cedric didn’t inherit his style like some hand-me-down. He earned it. First behind the drums, then out front with a guitar, creating a sound that’s as rough and real as red dirt roads.

Where Delta blues is full of sorrowful slides and big bends, hill country blues is about groove. Repetition. Hypnosis. Cedric doesn’t play a million notes—he plays the right ones. Over and over, with trance-like precision. You don’t listen to it—you feel it.

From Drums to Guitar: The Evolution

Cedric first made his name as a drummer—a monster of a drummer, to be honest. He played behind his granddad, behind Lightnin’ Malcolm, and with the North Mississippi Allstars. Watching him play drums is like watching a man possessed—tight, primal, relentless.

But when he stepped out with a guitar? That’s when the next chapter of the blues began.

He plays like he drums: raw, rhythmic, rooted in feel. You hear the history in his riffs—Junior Kimbrough, R.L. Burnside, Jessie Mae Hemphill—but you also hear Cedric’s own fire. He sings about poverty, love, faith, and pain without a hint of artifice. Just truth.

Albums That Changed My Perspective

Cedric’s records aren’t just albums—they’re documents. Each one a snapshot of the blues still breathing, still growing, still hurting and healing.
- 🎸 Descendants of Hill Country (2015) – Grammy-nominated. Rough, real, full of family legacy and modern edge.
- 🥁 Benton County Relic (2018) – One of my all-time favorites. Sparse, haunting, and deeply honest. Songs like “Hard to Stay Cool” and “We Made It” stopped me in my tracks.
- 🏆 I Be Trying (2021) – Grammy winner for Best Traditional Blues Album. But don’t let the word “traditional” fool you—this is blues stripped to the soul. Songs like “Step In” and “Keep On Pushing” feel like conversations with your ancestors.
Each album feels intentional. Cedric doesn’t fill space. He holds space. And you feel every second of it.

Seeing Cedric Live: Rhythm and Soul, Unfiltered

Cedric live is a religious experience. He’ll sit on a stool, one foot tapping the beat, guitar humming, voice low and aching. He might not say much between songs—but when he plays, the room goes silent. No one wants to miss a breath.

He can go from stomping groove to emotional hush in one chord change. One minute you’re dancing. The next, you’re on the verge of tears.

It’s real. It’s raw. And in today’s overproduced music world, that kind of purity is rare.

Why Cedric Burnside Still Hits Me Hard

Cedric doesn’t try to be flashy. He doesn’t need to be. His music isn’t about being the best guitarist or singer. It’s about being honest. And that honesty? It hits harder than any solo ever could.

He’s not just carrying on his family’s legacy. He’s expanding it. Taking the hill country blues and adding his own scars, his own hope, his own truth. And he’s doing it with respect, fire, and an open heart.

Where to Start If You’re New

Want to know what the blues sounds like right now, in 2025? Start with:
- 🎧 Benton County Relic – Gritty, hypnotic, essential.
- 💿 I Be Trying – Deep, soulful, Grammy-winning. A modern blues masterpiece.
- 🔥 Descendants of Hill Country – Where it all started for Cedric’s solo rise.
And whatever you do—see him live if you can. It might just change how you hear the blues forever.

More at cedricburnside.net

Cedric Burnside plays the blues like a man honoring the past and fighting for the present. It’s not nostalgia. It’s not revival. It’s survival. And for me, it’s exactly what the blues needs to keep moving forward—raw, rooted, and real.*

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June 14, 2025
Ronnie Baker Brooks – My Love Will Make You Do Right
Carrying the Flame: How Ronnie Baker Brooks Keeps the Blues Alive and Kickin’

There’s a certain kind of blues that hits you like a freight train—loud, soulful, and full of heart. That’s exactly what I felt the first time I saw Ronnie Baker Brooks live. He stepped onstage, guitar strapped low, sharp suit, big grin, and owned the room before he even played a note. When he finally did? Forget about it. That guitar cried, screamed, sang—and took us all to church.

In that moment, I realized: this guy isn’t just playing the blues. He’s living it—and carrying the torch for the next generation.

Born Into the Blues, Built for the Stage

Ronnie didn’t just stumble into the blues—he was born into it. He’s the son of Lonnie Brooks, one of Chicago’s greatest bluesmen. Ronnie grew up watching legends jam in his living room—Albert Collins, Buddy Guy, Koko Taylor. By the time most kids were learning chords, Ronnie was already playing with pros.

But here’s the thing—he never coasted on his family name. He carved out his own style: a wild, emotional mix of Chicago blues, funk, soul, and rock ‘n’ roll energy. You hear it in every note he plays. It’s as if the whole tradition of the blues is running through his fingers—but with a modern fire all his own.

The Sound: Deep Grooves, Big Tone, and Heartfelt Soul

Ronnie Baker Brooks isn’t afraid to play loud. His tone is fat, round, and dripping with blues grease. But what really gets me is the emotion he brings. He can shred with the best of them, sure—but when he slows it down and lets it breathe, that’s where the magic happens. His solos tell stories. His rhythm grooves feel like home.

And then there’s his voice. Rich, soulful, powerful. He sings like someone who’s felt every lyric—and makes you feel it too. Whether it’s a song about love, loss, family, or straight-up celebration, Ronnie brings everything he’s got.

Albums That Lit the Fuse

Ronnie’s catalog is tight and deep. Every record shows growth, soul, and his commitment to honoring the roots while pushing forward.
- 🎸 Golddigger (1998) – Raw and electric. A perfect intro to his early style. Straight-up Chicago heat.
- 🧨 Take Me Witcha (2001) – Funky, emotional, full of standout solos.
- 🔥 The Torch (2006) – This one cemented his rep as the real deal. Features guests like Lonnie Brooks, Eddy Clearwater, and Jimmy Johnson. A killer album from start to finish.
- 🎤 Times Have Changed (2017) – His most recent studio album, produced by Steve Jordan. A soulful, funky, powerful record featuring Steve Cropper, Angie Stone, Todd Mohr, and more. If you want to hear Ronnie stretching out and owning every genre he touches—this is the one.
Live Shows: Where Ronnie Really Burns

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again—Ronnie Baker Brooks is a must-see live act.

He doesn’t just perform—he connects. He’ll walk into the crowd with his guitar, solo right in front of you, get the whole room clapping and dancing, then drop a soul ballad that quiets the crowd to a hush. He makes you feel like family. And that’s what blues is all about.

Whether he’s headlining festivals, opening for Buddy Guy, or playing a Chicago club, Ronnie brings 110% every single night.

Why Ronnie Still Matters (More Than Ever)

The blues world is full of tradition—but Ronnie Baker Brooks reminds us that tradition should never get stale. He honors what came before him without sounding like a museum piece. He plays with passion, intention, and urgency.

He’s a bridge between the old-school and the new generation. He doesn’t just carry his father’s torch—he’s lighting new ones along the way.

Where to Start If You’re New
- 🎧 The Torch (2006) – Blues fire with deep roots and fresh spirit.
- 🔥 Times Have Changed (2017) – Funky, soulful, bluesy, essential.
- 🎶 Check out live versions of “Born in Chicago” and “Give the Baby Anything the Baby Wants” for a taste of Ronnie in full swing.
You can find more at ronniebakerbrooks.com

Ronnie Baker Brooks isn’t just keeping the blues alive—he’s giving it new breath, new fire, and a whole lot of soul. If you love your blues honest, funky, and full of heart, you owe it to yourself to hear what he’s preaching.

Thank You

We appreciate your time and dedication to reading our article. For more of the finest blues guitar music, make sure to follow our Facebook page, “I Love Blues Guitar”. We share exceptional selections every day. Thank you once again for your continued support and readership.
June 14, 2025
Little Freddie King – Greyhound Bus Station Blues
The Last Real Deal: How Little Freddie King Keeps the Blues Alive in My Soul

There are bluesmen who play the blues, and then there are bluesmen who live it. Little Freddie King is the latter. Every time I put on one of his records, I’m not just listening—I’m time-traveling. I’m in a smoke-filled juke joint in the Ninth Ward of New Orleans, cold beer in hand, watching a man in a suit and cowboy hat tear the roof off the place with a battered guitar and a smile that says, “Let’s party.”

The first time I heard Little Freddie King, it was on the track “Bad Chicken” from You Don’t Know What I Know. The title alone caught my ear, but the sound—raw, swampy, electric, funky—hit me like a bolt of Crescent City lightning. This was gutbucket blues, played with zero pretense and 100% joy. I was all in.

A King in the Crescent City

Born Fread Eugene Martin in McComb, Mississippi, Little Freddie moved to New Orleans as a teenager and never looked back. He’s been living, breathing, and playing the blues in the city for over 60 years—and not from the sidelines. He’s played house parties, shotgun bars, street corners, and world stages alike. He even played the first New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival in 1970—and he’s still playing it today.

His style is straight Delta grit mixed with New Orleans funk. Think Lightnin’ Hopkins meets Professor Longhair. It’s slippery, sloppy in the best way, and always swinging. He’s not here to impress. He’s here to make you dance, drink, and feel something.

The Sound: Dirty Blues with a Smile

Little Freddie’s guitar playing isn’t about fireworks or finesse. It’s about groove. He riffs on the same phrase for five minutes, digging in deeper each time. It hypnotizes you. His tone? Crunchy, treble-heavy, like he’s playing through an amp with a broken speaker—and it works. It rocks. It’s his.

And that voice. Warbly, raspy, full of character. Every line he sings is like an inside joke you’re lucky enough to be in on. He doesn’t sing the blues with sadness—he sings it with swagger.

The Albums That Put Me in the Pocket

Little Freddie’s discography is a treasure chest of juke-joint gold. Here are a few that never leave my rotation:
- 🎸 You Don’t Know What I Know (2015) – My introduction, and still my favorite. Groovy, greasy, and full of heart.
- 🔥 Messin’ Around tha House (2010) – A perfect snapshot of Freddie’s signature sound: electric blues with a grin.
- 🐔 Chasing tha Blues (2019) – Full of quirky lyrics, old-school tone, and deep-in-the-pocket rhythm.
- 🕺 Gotta Walk With Da King (2021) – One of his best. Features tight arrangements, killer solos, and his trademark New Orleans stomp.
- 🎙️ Live at the 2017 New Orleans Jazz Fest – If you want to feel the room, start here.
And yes—many of his album titles are written in Freddie’s own New Orleans-tinged dialect. It’s part of the charm. He’s realer than real, and he wants you to know it.

Little Freddie King Live: A Bourbon-Soaked Blessing

I saw Freddie at a club in New Orleans years ago, and I swear it was like church… if church had fried catfish, warm beer, and a Telecaster howling at the moon.

He walked onstage like a man who’s been doing this for 60 years—because he has. Dapper as ever in a suit and shades, he hit that first note, and the crowd erupted. His drummer (the incredible Wacko Wade) cracked a backbeat, and we were off to the races.

Freddie doesn’t shout. He glides. He smiles, struts, sings about women, food, whiskey, and dancing—then launches into another hypnotic riff that sounds like a train rolling through the swamp. It’s blues with a party pulse.

Why Little Freddie King Still Rules My Turntable

In an age where blues can sometimes get too slick or too safe, Little Freddie King is the last real juke joint king standing. He didn’t clean up his sound to go mainstream. He didn’t bend to trends. He just kept showing up—night after night, set after set—with his Telecaster, his rhythm, and his truth.

He’s a living bridge between the raw Delta sound and the funky New Orleans spirit. And his music reminds me what the blues really are: not just sadness, but survival. Not just pain, but celebration.

Where to Start If You’re New
- 🎧 You Don’t Know What I Know – Gritty, groovy, essential.
- 🔊 Gotta Walk With Da King – Freddie in peak form.
- 🎤 Messin’ Around tha House – Pure party blues.
- 🎶 Live at Jazz Fest 2017 – Experience the vibe.
And don’t miss his videos online. Watching him perform is half the fun.

More info at littlefreddieking.com

Little Freddie King doesn’t just play the blues—he lives them. Every chord, every laugh, every lyric is soaked in truth, sweat, and New Orleans soul. If you want to hear the blues the way they were meant to sound—raw, raucous, and real—Little Freddie’s got you covered.

Thank You

We appreciate your time and dedication to reading our article. For more of the finest blues guitar music, make sure to follow our Facebook page, “I Love Blues Guitar”. We share exceptional selections every day. Thank you once again for your continued support and readership.
June 14, 2025
Joanna Connor – Little Wing
Queen of the Slide: How Joanna Connor Took Me to Church with Her Guitar

Let me tell you something straight up—Joanna Connor didn’t just change how I hear the blues. She changed how I feel it.

The first time I saw her, I didn’t even know who she was. It was a small blues club in Chicago, packed wall to wall with locals, tourists, and die-hard blues heads. Then this woman walks out—curly hair, a Strat slung over her shoulder, barefoot—and proceeds to melt the walls off the place. She tore into a slide solo with such passion, precision, and swagger, I turned to the stranger next to me and just said, “Holy sht.*”

That was Joanna Connor—and I’ve been a believer ever since.

A Chicago Blues Monster with a Rock ‘n’ Roll Engine

Joanna might be from Brooklyn, raised in Worcester, Massachusetts, but her heart and soul belong to Chicago. Since the mid-1980s, she’s been grinding it out in the clubs of the Windy City, earning her stripes not just as a “great female guitarist”—but as one of the most ferocious slide players alive. Period.

She didn’t get a free pass. She fought for every inch of stage space in a male-dominated blues world, and she won—not with hype, but with pure, undeniable skill. Her style is a glorious hybrid of Chicago grit, Southern soul, and rock muscle. Think Bonnie Raitt’s emotion, Derek Trucks’ slide touch, and Stevie Ray’s fire—all wrapped in one powerhouse player.

The Tone, The Technique, The Fire

Joanna’s slide playing is like nothing else out there. She doesn’t just play—she attacks, coaxes, sings through her guitar. Her solos are full of drama, finesse, and raw firepower. It’s blues, but it’s also funk, rock, soul, even a little gospel when she really lets loose.

And her voice? Husky, soulful, real. She sings like someone who’s lived every word. One minute she’s roaring through a hard-driving shuffle, the next she’s pouring her heart into a soul ballad. She’s not trying to outshine her guitar—she’s complementing it, grounding it in human emotion.

Albums That Hit Me Like a Freight Train

You want to talk blues albums with teeth? Joanna’s discography is loaded. Here are the ones that lit the fire for me:
- 🎸 Believe It! (1998) – A killer introduction to her power. Raw, funky, full of swagger.
- 🔥 Six String Stories (2016) – Deep grooves, searing solos, great vocals. Mature, bold, and bursting with emotion.
- 🧨 Rise (2019) – Blends blues, soul, funk, and even hip-hop flavor. One of her most creative albums.
- ⚡ 4801 South Indiana Avenue (2021) – Produced by Joe Bonamassa. This one smokes. Old-school Chicago blues feel with next-level playing. A personal favorite.
- 💥 Best of Me (2023) – One of her most confident, refined, and electrifying records yet. She’s still evolving—and getting sharper with time.
Live: Where the Legend Lives

Joanna Connor on record is incredible. But live? Forget about it.

I’ve seen her multiple times now, and every show is a holy experience. She doesn’t just play the crowd—she owns it. She’ll rip a solo so fiery that you think she’s peaked… then crank it up even higher. There’s no ego, no pretense. Just pure, soul-deep connection between artist and audience.

And when she plays slide behind her head, or with a beer bottle, or lays back on the floor during a solo—well, you better believe the house goes up in flames. But it’s not gimmick. It’s joy. It’s freedom. That’s Joanna.

Why Joanna Connor Still Blows Me Away

Joanna doesn’t care about categories. Blues, funk, rock, soul—it’s all music to her. And that’s what makes her so powerful. She’s not chasing trends or trying to be anyone else. She’s carving her own road, one blistering slide solo at a time.

In a blues world still fighting for diversity and authenticity, Joanna Connor is both a pioneer and a proof point. She’s walked the walk. She’s earned the crown. And the best part? She’s still pushing herself—still getting better, bolder, bluesier.

Where to Start If You’re New

New to the Queen of the Slide? Start here:
- 🎧 4801 South Indiana Avenue – Studio fire. Produced by Bonamassa. A modern blues classic.
- 🎤 Six String Stories – Deep cuts, huge emotion.
- 🔥 Best of Me – Her latest. Unmissable.
- 🎶 Search for her live videos online—especially the viral slide clips. They’ll blow your mind.
Find more at joannaconnor.com.

Joanna Connor doesn’t just play the blues—she commands them. With a guitar in her hands, she’s a preacher, a poet, and a powerhouse. If you’re ready to hear the blues roar and wail like never before, it’s time to ride with Joanna.

Thank You

We appreciate your time and dedication to reading our article. For more of the finest blues guitar music, make sure to follow our Facebook page, “I Love Blues Guitar”. We share exceptional selections every day. Thank you once again for your continued support and readership.
June 14, 2025
Ten Years After – Rock Your Mama

Ten Years After – Rock Your Mama: A High Energy Rock Classic

Ten Years After “Rock Your Mama” is a high energy rock classic that captures the essence of the genre. The song, which was originally released in 1969, has since become a staple of classic rock radio and has been covered by numerous artists.

The song’s opening notes immediately create a sense of atmosphere, with the driving guitar riff setting the tone for what’s to come. The lyrics “Rock your mama, tell her you’re gone” create a sense of rebellion and a feeling of liberation, as the listener is taken on a journey through the wild side of rock ‘n’ roll.

As the song progresses, the vocals become more intense and emotive, with the lyrics “Take a trip on a rocket ship, sail away on the queen” creating a sense of adventure and a feeling of excitement that is both exhilarating and cathartic.

The song’s message is one of freedom and self-expression, with the lyrics “Come on baby, let your love light shine, let it shine all over me” speaking to the idea that rock ‘n’ roll is a journey that can take you anywhere.

The Legacy of “Rock Your Mama”

“Rock Your Mama” has had a significant impact on the world of music, influencing countless rock and roll artists across multiple generations. The song’s high-energy guitar riffs and driving beat have become synonymous with the genre, and its message of rebellion and self-expression continues to inspire new generations of music lovers.

The song’s influence can be seen in the work of artists such as Led Zeppelin, Jimi Hendrix, and The Who, all of whom have cited Ten Years After as a major influence on their music. The band’s unique blend of blues, jazz, and rock ‘n’ roll has helped to shape the modern music landscape and continues to inspire musicians to this day.

Ten Years After’s “Rock Your Mama” is a high-energy rock classic that captures the spirit and energy of the genre. Its driving guitar riffs, intense vocals, and message of freedom and self-expression have made it a favorite of music lovers everywhere. The song’s influence on the world of music cannot be overstated, and its legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians to this day. If you haven’t listened to it yet, then do yourself a favor and give it a spin. You won’t be disappointed.

June 11, 2025
Foghat – Stone Blue

Rocking the Blues: Foghat – Stone Blue

Foghat is a legendary rock band. Formed in 1971, they brought us many classic hits. One of their standout songs is “Stone Blue.” Released in 1978, it quickly became a fan favorite. This song captures the essence of Foghat’s powerful blues-rock style.

“Stone Blue” starts with a strong guitar riff. It grabs your attention right away. The rhythm is infectious. You can’t help but tap your feet. The song’s energy is undeniable. It makes you want to move. Foghat knows how to get a crowd going.

A Classic Rock Anthem

The lyrics of “Stone Blue” are simple but effective. They talk about feeling down but finding a way to push through. Lonesome Dave Peverett’s voice carries the emotion perfectly. His vocals are gritty and raw. You can feel the blues in every note.

The guitar solo in “Stone Blue” is a highlight. Rod Price’s slide guitar work shines. It’s soulful and electrifying. This solo takes the song to another level. It’s a moment that classic rock fans live for. The band’s chemistry is evident. They play together seamlessly.

Foghat has always been about the live experience. “Stone Blue” is a perfect example. The song comes alive in their concerts. Fans sing along with every word. The energy in the room is electric. It’s a shared moment of pure rock and roll.

“Stone Blue” remains a beloved classic. It’s a testament to Foghat’s lasting impact. The song is a reminder of the power of blues-rock. It’s simple, honest, and full of life. For fans over 60, it brings back memories of a golden era.

Listen to “Stone Blue” again. Let it take you back. Feel the power of Foghat’s timeless rock. Enjoy the ride.

Thank you

We appreciate your time and dedication to reading our article. For more of the finest blues guitar music, make sure to follow our Facebook page, “I Love Blues Guitar”. We share exceptional selections every day. Thank you once again for your continued support and readership.

June 7, 2025
Eric Sardinas – Planks of Pine
Slide, Fire, and Fury: The Wild Blues World of Eric Sardinas

If there was ever a blues guitarist who looked like he just walked out of a swamp-side voodoo shack with a slide guitar in one hand and a bottle of fire in the other—it’s Eric Sardinas.

The first time I saw him live, I didn’t know what to expect. I’d heard about this guy who played slide like the devil himself taught him, lit his guitar on fire (literally), and looked like a rock god dropped into a Mississippi juke joint. But when he hit that first note—with a steel-bodied Dobro cranked through a Marshall stack—I knew I wasn’t just watching a blues gig. I was witnessing a blues exorcism.

A Modern-Day Blues Wildman

Born in Florida in 1970, Eric Sardinas grew up digging deep into the records of Delta legends—Son House, Bukka White, Elmore James. But instead of copying them, he supercharged their style. He took the grit of slide blues and fused it with rock energy and stage presence that would make a metal band jealous.

His weapon of choice? The resonator guitar—specifically a Dobro—which he plays with blistering slide technique, bare fingers, and zero fear. Most guys play it sitting down. Sardinas straps it on, cranks it up, and rips into it like it owes him money.

Tone Like a Thunderstorm

What makes Sardinas so unique isn’t just his energy or showmanship—it’s that tone. The combination of a resonator and full-on electric overdrive shouldn’t work, but in his hands, it sounds like heaven and hell are fighting it out on six strings.

He doesn’t play pretty. He plays ferocious. Each note sounds like it’s being dragged through gravel. Each solo sounds like it’s about to fall off a cliff—and then lands perfectly, right in the pocket.

The Albums That Set My Speakers on Fire

Here’s the thing about Sardinas: he doesn’t make records for background music. He makes albums that demand attention. That grab you.

Here are the ones that made me a believer:
- 🔥 Treat Me Right (1999) – The debut. Raw, aggressive, full of swagger. If you want to know what it sounds like when Delta blues gets strapped to a jet engine, start here.
- 🎸 Devil’s Train (2001) – Even heavier. Even hotter. Features killer slide work and a title track that feels like it was born from smoke and gasoline.
- 🕶️ Black Pearls (2003) – Grittier, deeper, more dynamic. This album showed his growth as a writer without losing any bite.
- ⚡ Sticks & Stones (2007) – A blues-rock monster. Grooves hard, hits harder.
- 🔊 Boomerang (2014) – Sardinas at full throttle. A perfect blend of blues, rock, and molten slide madness.
Sardinas Live: Hold Onto Your Beer (and Your Soul)

Seeing Eric Sardinas live is not just a show—it’s a ritual. He comes out in leather and snakeskin, Dobro slung low, fire in his eyes. And once he starts playing, it’s like watching a tornado let loose on a stage. He doesn’t play the blues—he attacks them.

One night in a sweaty LA club, he played a 12-minute version of “Rollin’ and Tumblin’” that made me rethink everything I thought I knew about slide guitar. By the time he was done, I’d forgotten what year it was. The guy didn’t just command the stage—he owned the air around it.

And yes—sometimes he sets his guitar on fire. It’s not a gimmick. It’s a warning.

Why Eric Sardinas Still Matters

In a blues world that sometimes leans too hard on the past, Sardinas explodes forward. He honors the old school, sure—but he plays like he’s got something to burn, something to prove, every night.

He reminds me that the blues isn’t just for quiet reflection or smoky back rooms. It can be loud, sweaty, dangerous. And still be true to its roots.

New to Sardinas? Start Here:
- 💿 Treat Me Right – The essential intro. Delta blues on fire.
- 🚂 Devil’s Train – Dirty, gritty, and full of fury.
- 🎧 Boomerang – Polished, wild, and full of teeth.
And if you ever get the chance to see him live—go. Bring earplugs. Bring holy water. And bring your soul—because he’s gonna light it up.

More info at ericsardinas.com.

Eric Sardinas plays slide guitar like he’s got one hand in the past and the other striking lightning. He’s not just keeping the blues alive—he’s setting it ablaze. And I wouldn’t want it any other way.

Thank You

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June 5, 2025
Magic Slim – Buddy Budy’s Friend
Raw, Real, and Loud: How Magic Slim Became My Blues Backbone

If there’s one bluesman who could blow the roof off a bar with nothing but a Telecaster and a stare, it was Magic Slim.

I can still remember the first time I saw him—tall, broad, towering over his guitar like it was a weapon. No frills, no flash. Just blues, cranked up, stomping, and true. The band kicked into “Ain’t Doing Too Bad,” and by the first solo, I was hooked. Not in a polite nod-your-head way—I mean shouting-into-my-beer hooked.

That night, I learned: Magic Slim wasn’t here to finesse you. He was here to flatten you—with tone, truth, and a groove so tight it felt like a vice grip on your chest. And I’ve been chasing that sound ever since.

The Road from Mississippi to Chicago

Born Morris Holt in Mississippi in 1937, Slim grew up in the Delta dirt, steeped in the raw, emotional power of the blues. But when he hit Chicago in the ’50s, he found his voice—loud, mean, and sharp as broken glass. He didn’t come up playing slick riffs in studio lounges. He came up grinding it out in clubs where you had to earn every cheer.

Originally a piano player, he switched to guitar after losing a finger in a cotton gin accident. That’s right—he lost a finger and still became one of the greatest electric blues players of all time. That’s grit. That’s blues.

His early days were spent learning from the best—Magic Sam, his mentor and the guy who gave him the nickname. And it stuck. Magic Slim. Not flashy. Just formidable.

Magic Slim & The Teardrops: The Ultimate Barroom Blues Machine

You can’t talk about Magic Slim without talking about The Teardrops, his longtime backing band and one of the tightest, funkiest, hardest-hitting blues outfits I’ve ever heard. They didn’t just back him up—they drove the whole train.

When I saw them live, it was like watching a freight train roll through a juke joint. Bass thumping, drums snapping, Slim’s guitar slicing through the mix like a knife through barbecue.

They kept it simple. A few chords, a big groove, a songbook full of pain and swagger. Songs like:
- 🎸 “Goin’ to Mississippi” – a total barn-burner
- 🎶 “Ain’t Doing Too Bad” – classic Teardrop fire
- 💥 “Rough Dried Woman” – as gritty as a gravel road
- 🐍 “Let Me Love You Baby” – raw and full of bite
I’ve seen a lot of bands try to “modernize” the blues. Not Slim. He made the blues bigger, not slicker. He never pandered, never sweetened it. Just turned up, plugged in, and let it rip.

The Albums That Changed the Game for Me

Magic Slim made dozens of records, and nearly all of them are front-to-back blues beatdowns. But here are the ones that stayed glued to my CD tray:
- 🔥 Scufflin’ (1996) – My introduction. Crunchy, wild, and full of swagger.
- 🎸 Black Tornado (1998) – Aptly named. This one rips.
- 🥃 Raw Magic (1991) – Gritty, stomping, no-nonsense Slim.
- 🎤 Raising the Bar (2010) – One of his final records, and it proves the man never slowed down.
Slim didn’t make “hits.” He made statements. Records that punched you in the gut and dared you not to feel something.

Seeing Magic Slim Live Was Like Going to Church (If the Church Served Whiskey)

I was lucky enough to see Slim in the early 2000s in a small club in Chicago—no stage lighting, no fanfare, just Slim, The Teardrops, and a packed room of sweaty blues fans who knew what was coming.

He played like a man possessed—head down, guitar snarling, voice cutting through the smoke like a buzzsaw. He didn’t talk much. Didn’t need to. The music spoke. It roared. It preached. And we all said amen.

When he launched into “Luv Sumbody,” I swear the floor shook. That moment is burned into my memory as one of the most pure blues experiences of my life.

Why Magic Slim Still Rules

In a world where blues sometimes gets watered down or polished up for polite company, Magic Slim was a reminder of where it came from. The barrooms. The jukes. The streets. The struggle.

He played like every song had something to prove. And in a way, it did.

Magic Slim passed in 2013, but his music hasn’t lost a drop of power. Put on any record, and you’ll hear it: that grinding groove, that slashing tone, that truth. He played like a man who meant it. Every time.

Where to Start if You’re New

Here’s your fast track into Slim’s world:
- 💿 Scufflin’ – Classic Teardrop stomp.
- 🔊 Gravel Road – Straight-up electric Chicago blues.
- 🎤 Black Tornado – Thunderous, aggressive, unforgettable.
- 📀 Raising the Bar – Late career, no loss of edge.
- 🕺 Anything Live – Because seeing (or hearing) Slim live is essential.
And trust me: once you hear him, you’ll want to hear all of him.

Magic Slim didn’t clean up the blues—he cranked it up, stomped it down, and made it swing. He’s the reason I love my blues big, bold, and unapologetically real. And once you step into his world, there’s no going back.

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June 4, 2025
Skip James – Mountain Jack
The Ghost in the Guitar: How Skip James Haunts My Blues Soul

There’s blues you hear with your ears.
Then there’s blues you feel in your bones.
And when I first heard Skip James, I didn’t just feel the blues—I felt the chill of a soul reaching across time.

I was deep in a Delta blues rabbit hole, thinking I knew the sound: raw guitar, growling voice, hard truths. Then I found “Devil Got My Woman.” I still remember it: late night, headphones on, lights off. That eerie, high-pitched voice floated out of the speakers like a ghost. The guitar—played in that open D-minor tuning—didn’t accompany the song so much as haunt it.

I had goosebumps by the second verse.

That night, Skip James became more than an artist to me—he became a presence.

A Bluesman Like No Other

Born Nehemiah Curtis “Skip” James in 1902 in Bentonia, Mississippi, Skip didn’t sound like anyone else from the Delta. Not Robert Johnson. Not Son House. Not Charley Patton. He carved his own path—a dark, lonesome one—and it’s what makes his music so unforgettable.

His guitar playing is haunting, full of minor-key tension and eerie dissonance. He used open D-minor tuning, which gave his songs a mournful, shadowy atmosphere. Add his eerie falsetto on top, and you’ve got something that doesn’t sound like any other blues—it sounds like it came from another world.

The 1931 Sessions: Lightning in a Bottle

Skip recorded a handful of sides for Paramount Records in 1931. They didn’t sell well—maybe because they were too intense, too raw, too honest. But those recordings? They’re now legendary. Songs like:
- 🕯️ “Devil Got My Woman” – Pure, lonesome anguish. Still gives me chills.
- 🐍 “Hard Time Killin’ Floor Blues” – Stark, timely, devastatingly relevant.
- 💔 “I’m So Glad” – Covered by Cream decades later, but Skip’s original is otherworldly.
- 🙏 “Jesus Is a Mighty Good Leader” – A gospel song full of tension and trembling faith.
That first batch of recordings is one of the most powerful single-session legacies in blues history. Then, for decades… nothing. Skip vanished.

The Blues Revival and a Second Act

By the time the ’60s blues revival rolled around, most folks assumed Skip was long gone. But in 1964, blues enthusiasts found him in a hospital in Mississippi—broke, sick, but still alive. And when they gave him a guitar, he hadn’t lost a step. He played like he never left, his voice even more worn but just as haunting.

Skip went on to play folk festivals, record new material, and introduce his dark, hypnotic style to a new generation of blues lovers. I’ve watched old footage of him at Newport, wearing a fedora, sitting still, eyes far away—and even just watching through a screen, you feel the gravity of his presence.

Why Skip James Matters to Me

Skip James didn’t sing about hard times. He embodied them. His music isn’t about catharsis or celebration—it’s about confrontation. It forces you to sit with sorrow, to hear the quiet desperation in every note, and to understand that the blues isn’t always loud or wild. Sometimes it’s a whisper in the dark.

I return to his music when I need truth. When life feels too polished or packaged, I put on “Hard Time Killin’ Floor Blues,” close my eyes, and let that ghostly voice remind me: the pain is real—but so is the beauty in enduring it.

Where to Start

If you’re new to Skip James, don’t expect an easy listen. Expect a deep one. Here’s where to begin:
- 🖤 1931 Sessions (found on The Complete Early Recordings) – Raw, essential, unforgettable.
- 🎙️ Today! (1966) – A stunning comeback, filled with heartbreak and power.
- 📀 Devil Got My Woman – A compilation that gathers his defining songs.
- 🎞️ You See Me Laughin’ (Documentary) – Includes rare footage and context for Skip’s haunting style.
Final Thoughts

Skip James didn’t just play the blues—he sang from the shadowy places most of us try to avoid. His music isn’t always comforting. But it’s honest, beautiful, and unforgettable. He reminds us that sometimes the quietest voice carries the deepest truth.

And that’s why, after all these years, Skip James still echoes in my soul.

Thank You

We appreciate your time and dedication to reading our article. For more of the finest blues guitar music, make sure to follow our Facebook page, “I Love Blues Guitar”. We share exceptional selections every day. Thank you once again for your continued support and readership.
June 4, 2025