10 Unforgettable Blues Rock Guitarists of the 1980s

The 1980s were a decade of transformation for music, with genres blending, evolving, and often breaking new ground. Blues Rock, which had established itself in the previous decades, found a renewed energy during this time. Guitarists from all corners of the world added their unique flavors, pushing the boundaries of the genre while staying true to its roots.

Here’s a look at 10 unforgettable blues rock guitarists from the 1980s who left a lasting impact on the music world.

Stevie Ray Vaughan

It’s impossible to discuss blues rock guitarists of the 1980s without mentioning Stevie Ray Vaughan. With his debut album Texas Flood in 1983, Vaughan brought the raw energy of Texas blues to the mainstream. His virtuosic playing, combined with a deep emotional connection to the music, made him a legend. Hits like “Pride and Joy” and “Scuttle Buttin'” showcased his lightning-fast licks and soulful bends, solidifying his place as one of the greatest guitarists of all time. There is no one more influential in the world of blues rock than Stevie Ray Vaughan.

Gary Moore

Gary Moore, hailing from Northern Ireland, was a force to be reckoned with in the blues rock scene. Though he had a varied career that spanned multiple genres, his 1980s work really stands out. Moore’s fiery playing and solos in songs like “The Loner” captured the hearts of fans worldwide, blending technical prowess with deep blues feeling. Moore is one of the all-time greats in the genre.

Eric Clapton

Already a household name by the 1980s, Eric Clapton continued to shape blues rock with his ever-evolving style. Albums like Money and Cigarettes and Journeyman highlighted his ability to adapt while maintaining his bluesy roots. Clapton’s smooth playing on tracks like “Bad Love” and “I Can’t Stand It” kept him relevant and influential throughout the decade, cementing his status as a titan of blues rock.

Robert Cray

Robert Cray brought a modern sensibility to blues rock in the 1980s, infusing the genre with a sleek, contemporary sound. His breakthrough album, Strong Persuader (1986), featured the hit “Smoking Gun,” which showcased Cray’s crisp, clean guitar tone and smooth vocal delivery. His ability to blend traditional blues with a polished, radio-friendly style made him a standout artist during the decade, influencing a new generation of blues musicians. Cray was a clear standout of the blues rock genre in the 1980s.

Johnny Winter

Johnny Winter was already a well-known figure in the blues rock world by the time the 1980s rolled around. However, his output during the decade was far from a mere continuation of past successes. Johnny’s music in the 1980s demonstrated his unyielding commitment to the blues, with his impressive slide guitar work and gritty vocals shining through. Winter’s fiery performances and dedication to the genre kept him a prominent figure in blues rock.

Jeff Healey

Blind from infancy, Jeff Healey’s unique approach to guitar—playing the instrument flat on his lap—set him apart from his peers. Healey’s debut album, See the Light (1988), introduced the world to his incredible talent, with tracks like “Angel Eyes” and “Confidence Man” showcasing his fluid, soulful playing. Healey’s blend of blues rock with elements of jazz and pop made him one of the most innovative guitarists of the 1980s. Healey made a memorable appearance in the cult classic film Roadhouse and The Lost Soundtrack, recorded in the 1980s, was finally released in 2024.

Billy Gibbons

Billy Gibbons, the iconic bearded guitarist of ZZ Top, brought his Texas blues-rock style to new heights in the 1980s. With albums like Eliminator (1983) and Afterburner (1985), Gibbons helped ZZ Top blend traditional blues with synthesizers and modern production techniques, creating a unique sound that resonated with audiences worldwide. Hits like “Gimme All Your Lovin’” and “Sharp Dressed Man” featured Gibbons’ signature guitar tone—thick, gritty, and unmistakably bluesy. His inventive riffs and distinctive playing style made him one of the most unforgettable guitarists of the decade, influencing countless musicians in the process. Gibbons remains an icon of blues rock to this day.

Roy Buchanan

Roy Buchanan is considered one of the all-time great blues rock guitarists and his work in the 1980s further cemented that. Though his career spanned several decades, Buchanan’s 1980s albums such as When a Guitar Plays the Blues and Dancing on the Edge, displayed his exceptional ability to blend blues, country, and rock into a unique, emotive style. His expressive use of the Telecaster and mastery of tone made him a guitarist’s guitarist, respected by peers and fans alike. His music still deserves a larger audience.

Chris Rea

Chris Rea, known for his distinctive husky voice and slide guitar playing, brought a unique blend of blues rock and pop sensibilities to the 1980s music scene. Dancing with Strangers (1987) and The Road To Hell (1989) featured a mix of radio-friendly hits and blues-infused tracks, showcasing his ability to bridge the gap between commercial success and artistic integrity. Songs like the epic “The Road To Hell” and “Let’s Dance” highlighted his smooth, melodic playing and master storytelling prowess.

Albert Collins

Known as the “Master of the Telecaster,” Albert Collins brought a raw, icy tone to the blues rock genre. His 1980s work displayed his signature stinging guitar lines and percussive playing style. Collins’ ability to create a powerful groove with minimalistic riffs made him a standout guitarist of the decade, influencing countless musicians who sought to capture his unique sound.