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Roy Rogers
Born on July 28, 1950, in Redding, California, Roy Rogers is an American blues rock slide guitarist and record producer who has left an indelible mark on the world of music. Named after the singing cowboy, Rogers has garnered a reputation for his mastery of various guitar styles, particularly those related to Delta blues. His virtuoso slide work sets him apart as one of the most talented guitarists of his time.
Rogers’ career took off in the 1980s when he became a member of John Lee Hooker’s Coast to Coast Band. As a producer, he worked on four John Lee Hooker albums, including the Grammy Award-winning The Healer, as well as Mr. Lucky, Boom Boom, and Chill Out. Rogers’ production expertise also led to two Grammy-nominated recordings for Ramblin’ Jack Elliott: Friends of Mine and A Long Ride. He co-wrote “Gnawnin’ On It,” which earned a nomination for ‘Best Female Rock Vocal for Bonnie Raitt’, a long-time friend and collaborator.
Throughout his career, Rogers has had the opportunity to perform and record with a diverse range of artists such as Linda Ronstadt, Sammy Hagar, Bonnie Raitt, Zucchero, John Gorka, Ramblin’ Jack Elliott, Elvin Bishop, Carlos Santana, Steve Miller, and Ray Manzarek. Since 1980, he has fronted his own trio, The Delta Rhythm Kings.
In 2003, Rogers’ album Slideways reached number three on Billboard’s “Top Blues Albums” chart, followed by Split Decision, which also charted in 2009. His exceptional talent has been recognized by the Blues Foundation, which nominated him for a Blues Music Award for ‘Best Blues Guitar Instrumentalist.’ Rogers has also received accolades from France and Australia with long-time friend Norton Buffalo.
Rogers’ most recent release, Into The Wild Blue, is his first solo album in five years. Released by Chops Not Chaps Records in June 2015, the album is yet another testament to his global appeal. Since 1982, Rogers has been touring Europe, Brazil, Australia, and Scandinavia, captivating audiences with his unique blend of blues slide guitar mastery.