Smokin’ Joe Kubek
Smokin’ Joe Kubek was an American blues guitarist and singer born in 1956 in Texas. He was a prominent figure in the Texas blues scene. Kubek gained recognition for his virtuoso guitar skills and dynamic stage presence. Kubek was heavily influenced by blues legends such as B.B. King and Freddie King and developed a unique blend of blues, rock, and jazz. That set him apart from other blues musicians.
Born in Grove City, Pennsylvania, Kubek grew up in the Dallas, Texas area. In the 1970s during his teen years, he played with the likes of Freddie King.
Kubek’s musical career took off in the late 1980s when he formed a partnership with fellow Texas blues guitarist Bnois King. The duo released several critically acclaimed albums like 1993’s Texas Cadillac, 1996’s Got My Mind Back, and 2000’s Bite Me. Duo and toured extensively throughout the United States and Europe. Their high-energy performances and tight musical interplay made them known, and blues fans considered their live shows legendary.
In addition to his work with Bnois King, Kubek released several solo albums and collaborated with other blues musicians, including Anson Funderburgh, who was his guitar mentor. He was also a popular session musician and appeared on numerous albums by other blues artists.
A true master of the blues
Kubek was a talented guitarist with a distinctive style, and his contributions to the blues genre were widely recognized by both fans and critics. Tragically, Kubek died on October 11, 2015 after suffering a heart attack shortly before he was scheduled to take the stage at a festival near Wilmington, North Carolina. He was 58 years old. He passed away in 2015, but his legacy continues to live on through his music and the impact he had on the blues community. People will always remember Smokin’ Joe Kubek as one of the greatest blues guitarists of his generation and a true master of the blues.
