The song “Hide Away” is credited to Freddie King and Sonny Thompson. However, King stated that it came from a Hound Dog Taylor song “Taylor’s Boogie”.
Freddie King
Freddie King (born September 3, 1934, in Gilmer, died December 28, 1976, in Dallas) is an American blues musician.
Like many other bluesmen of his time, he began his career in Chicago. He played in the groups of Little Sonny Cooper and Hound Dog Taylor. Probably under the influence of Taylor, he developed his specific style of playing blues on an electric guitar.
King’s best-known songs are recorded in the early 1960s. “Hide Away” and “Have You Ever Loved a Woman?”. As well as the Burglar album released in 1974. “Hide Away”. This title derives from the name of the popular Chicago bar. The song was repeatedly recorded and performed, including by Eric Clapton, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and Jeff Healey.
The guitarist died of a heart attack in 1976 during a concert tour, which he played with Clapton, only three days after his last concert.
Playing style and technique of Freddie King
King was characterized by a specific style of playing the guitar, using a plastic thumb pick and a metal index fingerpick. He learned this technique from Jimmy Rogers.
King has had a great impact on the work of blues-rock musicians such as Stevie Ray Vaughan, Ronnie Earl, Peter Green and Kenny Wayne Shepherd.
In 1993, the then Governor of Texas announced September 3 as the day of Freddie King. Only such legends as Bob Wills and Buddy Holly experienced such an honor.
In 2003, Freddie King was placed by Rolling Stone magazine in the 25th place in the list of top 100 guitarists of all time throughout his career, King favored Fender amps and used a number of different models, including the Fender Super Reverb and the Fender Dual Showman. Arguably though, the amp with which King is best associated is the Fender Quad Reverb, which he used for much of his career.
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John Mayall & The Bluesbreakers – A British Blues Legend Comes to an End
John Mayall, a name synonymous with British blues for decades, passed away in 2023. His band, John Mayall & The Bluesbreakers, was a true talent factory, shaping the careers of many legendary musicians who would later become rock icons.
The Beginnings and a Breeding Ground for Talent
Founded in London in 1963, Mayall’s band quickly became one of the most important hubs of the British blues scene. Their music, a blend of traditional blues and rock sound, attracted both seasoned musicians and young talents.
It was in the Bluesbreakers that giants like:
Eric Clapton: His fiery guitar playing made him one of the most recognizable musicians in the world. After leaving the Bluesbreakers, Clapton formed the legendary band Cream.
Peter Green: Known for his subtle and melodic playing, Green was another guitarist who significantly influenced the development of British blues. He later founded Fleetwood Mac.
John McVie and Mick Fleetwood: Both musicians, after leaving the Bluesbreakers, joined Green and formed Fleetwood Mac.
Mick Taylor: Before replacing Brian Jones in The Rolling Stones, Taylor honed his skills in Mayall’s band.
John Mayall & The Bluesbreakers as a Springboard to Fame
John Mayall & The Bluesbreakers served as a kind of “springboard” for many young musicians. By performing in this band, they could gain experience, develop their own style, and gain recognition. Mayall, as a mentor and leader, created an environment where young musicians could grow and experiment.
Further Career and Legacy
After the departure of its most famous members, Mayall continued the band’s activities, constantly recording new albums and touring. Although the band’s lineup changed frequently, Mayall always remained its heart and soul.
John Mayall’s death is a huge loss for the music world. His contribution to the development of British blues is invaluable. John Mayall & The Bluesbreakers will forever be remembered in music history as the band that raised a generation of legendary musicians and shaped the sound of the entire genre.
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Ry Cooder: A Pioneering Influence in Blues and Beyond
Ry Cooder, born Ryland Peter Cooder on March 15, 1947, in Los Angeles, California, is an American musician, songwriter, and record producer whose work has left a significant mark on the blues genre and American music as a whole. Known for his skillful guitar playing and deep understanding of roots music, Cooder has explored various musical styles, including blues, folk, and world music.
Musical Influence and Guitar Technique
Ry Cooder’s influence on the blues is profound due to his ability to blend traditional elements with contemporary sounds. He is particularly renowned for his slide guitar technique, a method where the guitarist uses a slide on their finger to glide over the strings rather than pressing them down. This technique creates a smooth, continuous sound that is a hallmark of blues music. Cooder’s approach often involves open tunings, which allow for richer and more resonant chords, making his music uniquely vibrant and emotionally expressive.
Key Albums
Over his career, Ry Cooder has released numerous albums that have been critical in shaping not just his reputation but also the landscape of American music:
“Ry Cooder” (1970) – His debut album showcased his knack for blending different genres, with a strong focus on American roots music.
“Into the Purple Valley” (1972) – This album further explored American traditional music, including blues, folk, and early jazz.
“Bop Till You Drop” (1979) – Notable for being the first major label album recorded digitally, it features a mix of R&B and soul, showcasing Cooder’s diverse musical interests.
“Paris, Texas” (1985) – This soundtrack for the film of the same name is among Cooder’s most acclaimed works, with its haunting slide guitar pieces that perfectly captured the movie’s moody visuals.
Collaborations with Famous Musicians
Ry Cooder has worked with a variety of famous musicians across different genres. His collaboration with Indian musician V.M. Bhatt on the album “A Meeting by the River” won a Grammy Award for Best World Music Album in 1994. He also collaborated with the Cuban group Buena Vista Social Club, helping to bring the music of pre-revolutionary Cuba back to mainstream recognition. This project not only revitalized the careers of several Cuban musicians but also influenced Western perceptions of Latin music.
Life and Career
Cooder began playing guitar at age three. He developed an interest in American folk music and the blues in his early years, influenced by the sounds of his surroundings in Southern California. Throughout his career, Cooder has been known not just for his music but also for his views on social and cultural issues, often reflected in his work.
In addition to his solo albums, he has scored multiple films and has been a sought-after session musician, contributing to the recordings of The Rolling Stones, Neil Young, and many others. Despite his extensive work, he remains somewhat of a cult figure, respected more within musician circles than in mainstream music.
Conclusion
Ry Cooder’s contributions to music have been characterized by his innovative guitar techniques and his ability to bring forgotten music styles to a new audience. His exploration of various musical traditions and cultures, combined with his distinctive style of play, has significantly influenced the blues and many other music genres. His dedication to preserving and celebrating musical heritage continues to inspire musicians around the world.
Ry Cooder – The Prodigal Son
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Duane Allman and the Soul of the Blues: The Story Behind ‘Goin’ Down Slow’
Duane Allman was a pivotal figure in American rock and blues music, known for his masterful guitar work and as one of the founding members of the Allman Brothers Band. Born in Nashville, Tennessee, on November 20, 1946, he developed an early interest in guitar and soon became known for his unique style and command of the instrument. With an impressive list of collaborations, including sessions with Aretha Franklin, Wilson Pickett, and Eric Clapton, Allman made a significant impact on the music scene despite his short life.
One of the highlights in his solo work is the track “Goin’ Down Slow,” featured in Duane Allman: An Anthology, released posthumously in 1972. This song, originally written by St. Louis Jimmy Oden, is a classic blues lament that has been covered by numerous artists. Allman’s rendition brings a unique blend of soul, grit, and introspection, highlighting his deep understanding of the blues. His interpretation of “Goin’ Down Slow” is both a reflection of his technical prowess and his emotional depth, attributes that solidified him as a legend in the world of blues and rock.
“Goin’ Down Slow” stands out for its raw, mournful tone, with lyrics that express the heartache and introspective nature of the blues. The song follows the protagonist, who reflects on a life of mistakes and regrets, vowing to take his time in the last moments of his life. Allman’s guitar work echoes this sentiment, capturing a depth of feeling that resonates with listeners. His slide guitar, paired with a slow, deliberate tempo, creates a hauntingly beautiful rendition that showcases his ability to convey emotion through his instrument.
Duane Allman’s performance on “Goin’ Down Slow” not only reflects his skill but also his deep connection to the roots of the blues. He respected and revitalized the genre, adding his own layer of authenticity and power. For fans of blues-rock and American roots music, this track is a testament to Allman’s enduring influence and his status as one of the greatest guitarists of his time. His anthology, and specifically his take on “Goin’ Down Slow,” continues to inspire guitarists and musicians across genres, celebrating the life and legacy of a man whose music will never go out of style.
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Chicago is a city that wears its music on its sleeve. From South Side clubs to downtown festivals, the sound of the city is the blues—and few artists embody that spirit like Muddy Waters. The 10-story mural of Muddy towering over Chicago’s Loop isn’t just an eye-catching piece of street art; it’s a sky-high acknowledgement that the city’s modern identity was electrified by the Mississippi Delta’s most influential son.
The mural’s scale mirrors his impact. Muddy helped plug the Delta into an amplifier, turning acoustic laments into urban electricity. Rock, soul, and R&B owe him a debt. This mural turns that cultural ledger into a public monument.
The Vision: Street Art Meets the Blues
Painted in a bold mosaic style with prismatic facets and crisp contours, the mural transforms a flat façade into a living album cover. The color palette—vivid yet balanced—feels like a visual version of a sustained guitar bend: alive, expressive, and unmistakably bluesy. From street level, you see Muddy’s intense focus; from a block away, his silhouette becomes an icon, instantly recognizable even to casual passersby.
Beyond aesthetics, the mural serves a civic purpose. It links downtown foot traffic to the city’s South Side blues heritage, nudging visitors from the Loop toward record shops, venues, and museums that preserve the real story.
Why Muddy Waters, Why Chicago
Cultural Anchor: Muddy Waters migrated from Mississippi to Chicago, amplifying country blues into the electric Chicago blues that would inspire the Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin, and countless guitar heroes.
Local Legacy: His classic recordings for Chess Records reshaped pop music. Standing under the mural, you’re a short journey from the neighborhoods and studios where those sides were cut.
Public History: Instead of commemorating music history inside a museum alone, the city makes the story unavoidable—part of the daily commute, lunch breaks, and tourist selfies.
Where to Find It & How to See It Best
You’ll spot the mural in Chicago’s Loop, rising along the canyon of high-rises. Because it’s 10 stories tall, you don’t need to be right beneath it to appreciate the full composition—sometimes the best vantage is across the street on the opposite sidewalk, where the perspective lets the geometry breathe.
Photography tips:
Wide first, details second: Capture the full height from a corner across the intersection; then walk closer for the expressive facial planes and guitar details.
Golden hour glow: Early morning or late afternoon light softens contrast on the building’s surface and enriches color.
Street context: Include pedestrians, bus lines, and storefronts to show scale—Muddy looks even more monumental when framed by city life.
From Wall to Wayfinding: Building a Blues Trail
Public art like the Muddy Waters mural naturally becomes a wayfinding beacon. Use it as a starting point for an afternoon blues walk:
Start at the mural in the Loop: take photos and read any nearby plaques or project notes if posted.
Head toward the Chicago Cultural Center for rotating exhibits and architecture eye candy.
Explore blues record shops (vinyl bins often have Chess, Checker, and Argo treasures).
Finish at a blues club for a night set—because the mural is the overture, not the finale.
What the Mural Says About Chicago Today
Chicago is historically a city of makers—steel, stockyards, skyscrapers. The mural adds a modern chapter: a city that makes culture in public, not just behind velvet ropes. It celebrates a Black American art form as essential urban heritage, not nostalgia. And it challenges passersby to reconsider how we honor artists: not merely with plaques, but with architecture-scale tributes as bold as the music itself.
Classroom & Family Guide: Learn the Blues on the Block
Bringing students or young music fans? Use the mural as a participatory lesson:
Sound vs. Color: Ask how the mural’s color blocks might translate to musical elements—bends, shout-choruses, walking bass lines.
Migration Map: Trace the Great Migration: How did movement from Mississippi to Chicago change the sound and the business of music?
Influence Tree: Start with Muddy, branch to Howlin’ Wolf and Willie Dixon, then to the British blues boom and the modern guitar scene.
Practical Visiting Tips
Footwear & time: The Loop is walkable—pair the mural with a coffee run or a midday stroll between attractions.
Weather backup: Chicago’s weather can flip fast. If it rains, the mural still photographs beautifully—reflections in puddles add drama.
Respect the space: It’s a working city street. Be mindful of traffic, loading zones, and building entrances when lining up shots.
Why It Matters (Still)
Monuments don’t only commemorate the past; they shape the present. This 10-story Muddy Waters mural frames Chicago as a city that recognizes its cultural roots while inviting new audiences to listen closer. For lifelong fans, it’s a moment of recognition. For newcomers, it’s an irresistible question mark: Who is that? Why is he up there? Follow the curiosity, and you’ll find the soundtrack of the city.
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In today’s music industry, it’s becoming increasingly rare for an independent artist to achieve mainstream success. However, Justin Johnson is a complete anomaly to this notion. Armed with his signature sound and a desire to connect with fans, Justin has developed a worldwide following of over a million fans, all without the support of any label or industry backing.
After years of touring non-stop, playing in venues ranging from rural dive bars to international festival stages, Johnson found his roots in Nashville, where he quickly became absorbed into the beating heart of Music City. He has become an in-demand session player, frequently collaborating, co-writing, and co-producing albums with country music royalty John Carter Cash, who has named Johnson as one of his favorite current artists.
With the ability to shine in virtually any genre, Justin Johnson has shared the stage with a mind-blowing range of musicians, including Kris Kristofferson, Sheryl Crow, Ronnie Dunn, Victor Wooten, Jamey Johnson, The Allman Brothers, Bootsy Collins, Stevie Wonder, Will Lee, and more. His talent for blurring the lines between traditional and cutting-edge music has earned him a reputation for taking current day music back to its roots while blazing new sonic frontiers.
As a blues guitarist, Justin Johnson’s sound is unique and unmistakable. His fingerpicking style is reminiscent of blues legends like Robert Johnson and Mississippi John Hurt, but his music also features elements of rock, folk, country, and even electronic music. Justin has an undeniable gift for taking the timeless sound of the blues and injecting it with a modern sensibility that makes it accessible to new audiences.
What sets Justin Johnson apart from many other blues guitarists is his willingness to experiment and push boundaries. He’s not content to simply regurgitate the same old blues licks – instead, he’s always looking for new ways to express himself and his music. This willingness to innovate has earned him a devoted following of fans who appreciate his fresh take on the blues and his commitment to creating music that is both authentic and exciting.
In a world where it’s increasingly difficult for independent artists to get noticed, Justin Johnson has proven that talent and dedication can still lead to success. With his unique sound, innovative approach to music-making, and loyal fanbase, he’s one of the most exciting blues guitarists on the scene today.
This 3-String guitar from Joys Guitars was made out of an old empty Ammo Box, and when I took it out of the box I swear I heard it whisper “let’s play some ‘Gimme Back My Bullets’ by @SkynyrdOfficial!” The combo of this guitar and @HughesandKettneramps Black Spirit 200 floor amp made it easy to dial in some deep & dirty swamp rock tone. I added a Wild Dog Stomp foot pedal for a kick drum sound. I love the melodies in Skynyrd songs, and while the guitar riffs are what made me fall in love with their music, writing these fingerstyle arrangements has really made me appreciate how perfectly the melodies flow over the riffs and how catchy and organic they are. If you dig this arrangement, check out the “Four Walls of Raiford” and “Ballad of Curtis Loew” arrangements I recently posted.
• CEntrance R4R Mixerface Mobile Recording Interface
• Wild Dog Stomp Stomp Box
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Ally Venable: Rising Blues Star and Inspiration for Young Musicians
Ally Venable, the 23-year-old Texas-born blues guitarist and singer, has taken the music world by storm, proving herself as a force to be reckoned with in contemporary blues. With a musical career spanning nearly a decade, Venable has released multiple albums, including the acclaimed Heart of Fire, which reached number two on Billboard’s Blues Albums chart. Her latest album, Real Gone, showcases not only her exceptional musical talent but also her vision for inspiring the next generation, especially young girls.
A Path to Blues Stardom
Venable’s love for the blues started at a young age, sparked by an unexpected encounter with Stevie Ray Vaughan’s Texas Flood album when she was just 12. Introduced to the genre by her father, Venable became captivated by Vaughan’s playing style and emotional delivery. From there, she dove into learning guitar, influenced by the likes of Buddy Guy and other blues legends.
“I just connected with it,” she explains. “Seeing Stevie play made me want to pick up the electric guitar, and from there, I started learning his songs and then moving on to Buddy Guy’s music.” Venable’s ability to learn by ear helped her grow quickly as a musician, and by her teens, she was already performing live shows anywhere she could—from coffee shops to crawfish stands.
Her playing style, marked by a combination of traditional blues influences and a modern flair, has won the admiration of many established blues musicians. Buddy Guy and Joe Bonamassa, both legends in their own right, appear on Real Gone, each contributing to tracks that highlight Venable’s growth as both a guitarist and a vocalist. On the track “Texas Louisiana,” Venable and Guy seamlessly intertwine vocals and guitar solos, creating a dynamic performance that showcases their unique musical chemistry. Meanwhile, Bonamassa’s soulful playing shines on “Next Time I See You,” complementing Venable’s emotive voice.
Breaking the Mold: A Role Model for Young Girls
Despite her rapid rise to success, Venable remains grounded in her mission to inspire others, especially young women. “I want to be an inspiration to young girls,” she says, recalling the moments when she sees young fans lining up after her shows to ask for autographs or simply to talk. “If I can be a role model to girls and get them to pick up the guitar, then I’ll feel like I made a real impact.”
Venable’s commitment to her craft and her desire to break the mold of what’s expected in the blues scene have made her a standout figure. She talks about how she likes “breaking rules” and how, early on, she wasn’t aware of the “rules” of the industry—she just went ahead and started releasing music. Her boldness and determination have allowed her to carve her own path, and her ability to inspire young women to follow suit is a testament to her character.
Real Gone: A Testament to Growth
Venable’s latest album, Real Gone, represents a new chapter in her musical journey. Produced by Tom Hambridge, the album was written in just two days, a testament to the synergy between Ally Venable, Hambridge, and songwriter Rich Fleming. “I handed the reins to Tom this time,” Venable explains, describing how it allowed her to focus on her performance and let go in the studio. The result is her most polished and cohesive album to date, filled with standout tracks like the half-acoustic, half-electric “Blues Is My Best Friend” and the driving blues-rock title track.
Her instrumental prowess is particularly evident on this record, where Venable’s guitar playing never feels repetitive. She credits much of her stylistic development to influences like Buddy Guy, Jimi Hendrix, and of course, Stevie Ray Vaughan, as well as her affinity for the wah pedal, which she uses to add a “glide” to her playing. “It’s like this other frequency,” she says, describing how the wah allows her to tap into a different dimension of her musical expression.
Collaborations with the Best
Working with blues giants like Buddy Guy and Joe Bonamassa on Real Gone was a dream come true for Ally Venable. Her collaboration with Guy on “Texas Louisiana” was particularly special, as the two shared the studio and exchanged musical ideas in a way that felt like a passing of the torch. “It’s a pretty magical thing working with Buddy,” she says. “We have a dialog with our guitars—we’re friends, and we’ve toured together.”
Venable’s experience with Bonamassa was equally enriching, though more structured. Bonamassa’s part on “Next Time I See You” was recorded separately, but his presence on the track complements Venable’s performance, resulting in one of the album’s standout moments. “It’s Joe Bonamassa, you know?” Venable laughs, explaining that she didn’t want to take away from his contributions.
A Bright Future
As Venable continues to rise in the blues world, her ambition remains clear: to push the genre forward while also serving as an inspiration to future generations. Her combination of technical skill, emotional depth, and dedication to her craft has earned her a place among the top contemporary blues artists. As she embarks on this new chapter, it’s clear that Ally Venable’s journey has only just begun, and her influence is already being felt by a new wave of musicians.
With Real Gone, Venable not only solidifies her place in the blues but also sets her sights on making a lasting impact on the next generation of guitarists—especially young women looking for a role model to show them that they, too, can break the rules and succeed.
Check also acoustic version of this song.
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Billy F Gibbons – The Bearded Blues Wizard Who Shaped My Soundtrack
I’ve been chasing guitar tone for as long as I can remember. That sound—fat, fuzzy, dripping with Texas heat. And every time I’d ask, “Who the hell is that?”, the answer always came back the same:
Billy F Gibbons.
Whether it was a ZZ Top riff rattling the walls or one of his greasy, laid-back blues solos on a solo record, Billy’s tone always stopped me in my tracks.
He didn’t just play the blues. He smoked it, twisted it, modernized it, and made it sexy.
The Origins of the Reverend Willie G
Born in Houston, Texas, in 1949, Billy F Gibbons picked up the guitar after seeing Elvis Presley perform, but his deepest inspiration came from B.B. King, Muddy Waters, and Lightnin’ Hopkins.
Before ZZ Top ever hit it big, Billy fronted a psych-blues band called The Moving Sidewalks that even opened for Jimi Hendrix—who reportedly called Billy one of his favorite players.
Then came ZZ Top. And everything changed.
The ZZ Top Era – Where Blues Met Boogie and Broke the Charts
Let’s not kid ourselves—ZZ Top is one of the greatest blues-rock bands in history, and Billy F Gibbons is the soul of it.
🎸 The gritty, percussive tone
🎤 That gravel-slick voice
🥁 The tight-as-a-fist rhythm section with Dusty and Frank
Together, they took traditional blues and slammed it into the Texas desert sun, dressed it up with hot rods and fuzzy guitars, and made it global.
From the dirty slide work on “La Grange” to the slick, synthy swagger of “Sharp Dressed Man”, Billy made the blues cool again—and never let it go.
Beyond ZZ – The Solo Billy We Always Wanted
When Billy F Gibbons dropped his first solo record, Perfectamundo, in 2015, I was curious. When he followed it up with The Big Bad Blues (2018), I was floored.
Here was the raw, earthy, stripped-down bluesman we always knew was behind the beard and the shades.
Then came Hardware (2021), and it showed just how deep Billy’s creative well really is. From desert rock to hill country stomp, it’s pure grit and groove.
What Sets Billy Apart?
A lot of people can play guitar. Some can even play blues. But nobody sounds like Billy F Gibbons.
His tone is syrupy, sizzling, thick as molasses
His phrasing is so relaxed it’s like he’s whispering secrets through a Marshall stack
His vibe? Untouchable
And the best part? He never lost the feel. Whether he’s onstage in a leather jacket or in the studio with Joe Bonamassa, he always sounds like himself—and it always feels good.
Albums That Every Billy Fan Should Own
Here’s your Billy F Gibbons essentials list—solo and ZZ Top:
Solo:
💿 The Big Bad Blues (2018) – A return to his roots. Raw, tough, and loaded with tone.
🎧 Hardware (2021) – Dusty desert rock meets hot-rod blues.
🎙️ Perfectamundo (2015) – Funky, weird, and super fun.
With ZZ Top:
🎸 Tres Hombres (1973) – “La Grange” alone makes this essential.
💿 Eliminator (1983) – Blues gone MTV, and it works.
🔥 Rhythmeen (1996) – Dirty and underrated.
📀 Live from Texas (2008) – Proof Billy still owns the stage.
Seeing Billy Live – A Blues Baptism
I saw Billy F Gibbons live once—and it was like watching a zen blues master at work.
No flashy solos. No ego. Just pure tone and groove from a man who’s done it all, and still plays every note like it matters.
And that’s what makes Billy timeless: He’s never trying to impress you. He’s just being Billy—and that’s more than enough.
Why Billy F Gibbons Still Matters
He’s a walking encyclopedia of blues guitar. He’s a tone freak, a storyteller, a showman, and a true original.
Billy F Gibbons brought the blues out of the barroom and into the arena, without ever losing the dirt on his boots.
He made it cool. He made it loud. And he made it last.
Where to Start If You’re New
Your Billy F Gibbons starter kit:
🎧 The Big Bad Blues – Solo fire.
💿 Tres Hombres – Blues-rock perfection.
📺 YouTube: Search “Billy Gibbons live tone” or “Billy Gibbons guitar solo” and just… enjoy.
Billy F Gibbons didn’t just learn the blues—he took it for a joyride through the Texas heat and made it immortal. And lucky for us, he’s still out there, sunglasses on, fingers flying, and playing like tone is a sacred thing.
🎸💙🔥
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Jimmie Vaughan, Gary Clark Jr. & Eric Clapton – Sweet Home Chicago
A Legendary Blues Moment at Eric Clapton’s Crossroads Guitar Festival 2023
When Eric Clapton’s Crossroads Guitar Festival returned in 2023 after a four-year break, fans knew they were in for something special. But few moments captured the heart and soul of the blues quite like the electrifying performance of “Sweet Home Chicago” by Jimmie Vaughan, Gary Clark Jr., and Eric Clapton himself.
Held at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles on September 23, 2023, this powerhouse collaboration wasn’t just another jam — it was a celebration of blues legacy, guitar mastery, and generational connection.
A Festival Built on the Spirit of the Blues
Eric Clapton founded the Crossroads Guitar Festival in 1999 as both a celebration of guitar excellence and a fundraiser for the Crossroads Centre in Antigua, a treatment and recovery facility he established. Over the years, the festival has become legendary for its spontaneous collaborations and historic jam sessions, uniting the past, present, and future of the blues.
In 2023, the lineup featured an impressive mix of artists — from seasoned veterans to rising stars — but when Vaughan, Clark Jr., and Clapton took the stage together, the atmosphere shifted. What followed was a performance that instantly became part of Crossroads history.
“Sweet Home Chicago” — The Soul of the Blues
“Sweet Home Chicago,” a cornerstone of American blues, traces its roots back to Robert Johnson’s 1936 classic recording. Over the decades, countless artists have reinterpreted it, but the Crossroads 2023 version stands out for its emotional power and effortless musicianship.
As the opening chords rang out, Jimmie Vaughan’s Texas blues tone set the groove, steady and soulful. Gary Clark Jr. answered with his raw, fiery modern edge, and Clapton — ever the master of feel and phrasing — tied it all together with warm, melodic authority.
Each guitarist traded licks in a joyful call-and-response, weaving their individual voices into a single, timeless sound. The chemistry was undeniable, the energy contagious. It wasn’t a competition — it was a conversation among equals, bound by a shared love for the blues.
Bridging Generations
One of the most moving aspects of this performance was the way it connected generations.
Jimmie Vaughan, carrying the Texas blues torch once held by his brother Stevie Ray Vaughan.
Gary Clark Jr., representing a new wave of guitar heroes who keep the genre fresh and relevant.
Eric Clapton, the legendary bridge between the British blues boom and the modern blues world.
Together, they symbolized continuity — proof that the blues is alive, evolving, and as powerful as ever.
A High Point of Crossroads 2023
While the Crossroads Festival always delivers standout collaborations, this version of “Sweet Home Chicago” quickly became a fan favorite — a high point of the weekend. The live recording, “Sweet Home Chicago – Live at Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles, CA, 9/23/2023,” appears on the official Crossroads Guitar Festival 2023 release and streaming platforms.
The crowd’s roar, the guitar interplay, and the sheer joy of three masters at work made this performance one of those rare musical moments you can feel long after the final note fades.
Why It Matters
This performance wasn’t just about three guitarists — it was about the legacy of the blues. It reminded fans and musicians alike that the blues isn’t confined to the past. It’s a living language, continually renewed each time it’s played with heart and authenticity.
Crossroads 2023 proved once again that when artists come together to honor the roots of the music, something timeless happens — and “Sweet Home Chicago” was the shining example.
Final Thoughts
“Sweet Home Chicago” at Crossroads 2023 was more than a song — it was a statement of unity, a love letter to the blues, and a masterclass in tone, feel, and soul.
Whether you’re a lifelong blues fan or a newcomer discovering its magic, this performance is a reminder of why the blues endures: because it speaks directly to the heart.
🎧 Listen to “Sweet Home Chicago – Live at Crossroads 2023” on the official release, and relive one of the most powerful moments in modern blues history.
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Robert Cray – The Soul of the Blues, Smooth as Satin and Sharp as a Razor
You never forget the first time you hear Robert Cray.
For me, it was a rainy night and someone put on Strong Persuader. As soon as “Smoking Gun” came on, I stopped mid-conversation and just listened.
That voice. That guitar tone. That groove.
It wasn’t loud. It wasn’t flashy. But it cut right through me.
The Man Behind the Guitar
Robert Cray was born in Georgia and raised in the Pacific Northwest, but his music sounds like it’s straight out of the soul-soaked backrooms of Memphis and the South Side of Chicago.
He’s a five-time Grammy winner. He’s played with Eric Clapton, B.B. King, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Albert Collins, and just about every blues giant you can name.
But the amazing thing is—he never tried to sound like anyone else. He’s always just been Robert Cray.
And that’s what makes him timeless.
The Sound: Smooth, Soulful, and So Real
Cray’s sound is the blues with a velvet touch. It’s heartbreak in a three-piece suit.
🎸 His guitar work is clean, tasteful, and emotionally precise.
🎤 His voice is smooth, expressive, and instantly recognizable.
🎶 His songs deal with love, loss, betrayal, and longing—with honesty and class.
He doesn’t shout. He doesn’t show off. He lets the song breathe, and his solos speak volumes without saying too much.
He’s one of the few artists who can break your heart with a whisper.
Albums That Made Me a Cray Fan for Life
If you’re new to Robert Cray, these albums are pure magic:
💿 Strong Persuader (1986) – His breakout record. “Smoking Gun” is the gateway drug.
🎧 Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark (1988) – Silky blues with pop polish and emotional depth.
🎙️ I Was Warned (1992) – Grittier and more socially conscious.
🔥 Twenty (2005) – Soulful and sharp, one of his most underrated works.
🎸 That’s What I Heard (2020) – Proof that Robert Cray is still at the top of his game.
Whether it’s a slow burn or a dance floor shuffle, Cray brings the same care and truth to every note.
Seeing Robert Cray Live – Less Flash, More Feel
I saw Cray in a beautiful old theater. No pyro. No wall of amps. Just a man with a Strat, a tight band, and a room full of people ready to feel something real.
He played “Right Next Door (Because of Me)” and you could hear a pin drop. He smiled, took his time, and let the story unfold in his voice and his fingers.
That’s the thing about a Robert show—it’s not a “performance.” It’s a conversation.
Why Robert Cray Still Matters
In a world that often celebrates volume over substance, Robert Cray is the king of subtle power.
He brought soul and sophistication to the blues. He made it smoother without watering it down. He proved you can say more with a whisper than a scream.
And decades into his career, he’s still releasing albums that put most younger artists to shame.
Where to Start If You’re New
Your Robert Cray starter kit:
🎧 Strong Persuader – Essential listening.
💿 Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark – Smooth and smart.
🎙️ That’s What I Heard – Recent, relevant, and remarkable.
📺 YouTube: Search “Robert Cray live Smoking Gun” or “Robert Cray Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark live” for a taste of his quiet power.
Robert Cray isn’t the loudest bluesman in the room—but he just might be the most soulful. His music sneaks up on you. It stays with you. It speaks the truth with grace.
And in my world, that’s what the blues is all about.
🎸💙🔥
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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.
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