10 Unforgettable Blues Rock Guitarists of the 1960s
The 1960s was the decade where blues rock emerged as a powerful genre that blended the raw emotion of the blues with the electrifying energy of rock ‘n’ roll. This era produced some of the most influential guitarists whose styles and innovations have left a lasting impact on music history.
Here are 10 unforgettable blues rock guitarists that helped define the 1960s.
Jimi Hendrix
Jimi Hendrix exploded onto the scene in the mid-1960s, forever changing the landscape of blues rock with his innovative techniques and otherworldly guitar tone. Songs like “Voodoo Child (Slight Return)” and “Red House” showcased his ability to blend the blues with psychedelia, creating a sound that was both timeless and ahead of its time. Hendrix’s influence is immeasurable, making him a cornerstone of blues rock. His fearless approach to experimentation and his unparalleled creativity revolutionized the guitar.
Eric Clapton
Eric Clapton earned the nickname “Slowhand” for his impeccable guitar work that melded blues with rock in a way that was revolutionary. His work with John Mayall & the Bluesbreakers, Cream, and later as a solo artist, made him a defining figure in blues rock. Clapton’s ability to channel deep emotion through his guitar playing set him apart as a true icon and pioneer of blues rock.
Peter Green
Peter Green, the original leader of Fleetwood Mac, was a master of blues rock guitar. Known for his emotive playing and soulful tone, Green’s contributions to the genre include classics like “Black Magic Woman” (later made famous by Santana) and “Oh Well.” His playing was deeply rooted in the blues, and his subtle yet powerful style left a lasting impression on the genre. Green’s ability to convey profound emotion through minimalist phrasing made him one of the most respected guitarists of his time.
Jeff Beck
Jeff Beck’s fiery guitar work in The Yardbirds and as a solo artist pushed the boundaries of blues rock. His innovative use of distortion and feedback, along with his technical prowess, made him one of the most influential guitarists of the era. Tracks like “Beck’s Bolero” and “Shapes of Things” showcased his ability to infuse blues with a harder-edged rock sound. Beck’s relentless pursuit of new sounds and his willingness to push the limits of guitar playing have made him a revered figure in the world of blues rock. Beck is the hero of many modern-day guitar heroes.
Albert King
Though Albert King is often associated with the pure blues genre, his influence on blues rock is undeniable. His unique string-bending technique and powerful style were major influences on many rock guitarists of the 1960s. Tracks like “Born Under a Bad Sign” became anthems of the genre and were covered by numerous rock artists, further cementing King’s legacy in blues rock. King’s commanding presence and innovative approach to the guitar have left a lasting mark on the genre, inspiring countless musicians across generations.
Mike Bloomfield
Born in Chicago, Mike Bloomfield was one of the first American guitarists to gain fame as a blues rock player. His work with the Paul Butterfield Blues Band and the Super Session album with Al Kooper and Stephen Stills showcased his fluid, bluesy style. Bloomfield’s improvisational skills and deep understanding of the blues made him a pivotal figure in the development of blues rock. His ability to seamlessly blend traditional blues with rock sensibilities helped to bridge the gap between the two genres, paving the way for future artists.
Keith Richards
As the driving force behind the Rolling Stones, Keith Richards brought a raw, gritty blues rock sound to the forefront of popular music. His riffs are iconic, and his rhythm guitar work laid the foundation for the Stones’ blues-influenced sound. Richards’ ability to blend blues with rock made him one of the most influential guitarists of the decade. His instinct for crafting unforgettable riffs and his unorthodox approach to guitar playing have become hallmarks of the blues rock genre.
Johnny Winter
Johnny Winter was a force to be reckoned with in the blues rock scene of the late 1960s. Known for his high-energy performances and fiery guitar work, Winter’s music was a blend of Texas blues and rock ‘n’ roll. His album The Progressive Blues Experiment and performances at Woodstock cemented his status as a blues rock legend, influencing countless guitarists who followed. Winter’s relentless drive and distinctive playing style made him a standout figure in the genre, and his contributions continue to be celebrated by blues rock fans worldwide.
Buddy Guy
Buddy Guy’s influence on blues rock is immense, though he’s often celebrated as a pure bluesman. His fiery guitar playing and wild stage presence in the 1960s inspired countless rock guitarists, including Jimi Hendrix and Eric Clapton. Guy’s willingness to experiment with tone and intensity has made him a lasting icon in both the blues and rock worlds. Simply put, Buddy Guy is a legend.
Kim Simmonds
Kim Simmonds, the founder and lead guitarist of Savoy Brown, was a key figure in the British blues boom of the 1960s. Simmonds’ ability to blend traditional blues with a harder rock edge made him a standout guitarist, and his contributions to the genre have earned him a dedicated following. His long career with Savoy Brown solidified his reputation as a blues rock stalwart. His final work was released after his death with the release of Blues All Around in 2023.
No Tony McPhee???
EXACTLY…or Stan Webb
Best mick hutchinson
No Alvin Lee?
Best list I’ve seen recently of Blues Review’s 10 Unforgettable Blues Rock fill in blank category. One surprise was the omission of Jimmy Page. LZ 1st album was 1969. Not that big of a Page fan myself, but know he earned his place on this list. I get it – only room for 10.
A Cream fanatic & there solo careers but about time somebody got it almost right, again this Hendrix thing. Loved the jams & tunes he left for us, Cry of love, Gypsy’s?, Monterey?, & THe greatest song “The Star Spangled Banner” at WS, but it’s been yrs. since he played a note & to compare him to those who died after him & are still alive Joe B., EVH, Satriani, Slash,Lee 10 yrs. After,Santana(might have missed him if he was listed),BB zKing,can’t remember his name but played w/ Clapton in the 70’s(watch the doc. “Clapton in the 70’s it’s so great, their on one of those speed trains going to Belgium I though I got trashed back then, they went to a new level! Anyway great list not like Rolling Stones list. So tear me apart after 50 yrs of defending Cream esp. their live performances & solo careers I’ve heard it all, just 1 god left & w/ God’s help maybe see him for the 17th time. ????????????????????????
Roy Buchanan.. Period.. End of debate..
Where is Rory Gallagher?
Rory is first always for me , there has not been another like him , SUPERB!. Peter Green another amazing guitar player unlike others . They both stand alone for blues . The others follow of course.
Roy Buchanan and Rory Gallagher need be there.
no Freddy King? a travesty! there are many others I could name but I’d be here at least half a day!
Yep, I knew Freddie King and several other blues artists. Back in 72, when I worked for AT&T daytime, and at a club owned by a guy in Dallas called “Mother Blues” It was an old house that had the big white columns on the front and looked like a plantation house. It was three stories and the owner lived on the third floor. I got to spend time up there where a lot of artists would go after gigs to smoke dope and do cocaine.
Duane Allman?? Top 3 at least.
I totally agree 100% The best ever.
No Paul Kossoff-, Rory Gallagher or Tony mcPhee ….. you guys just haven’t done your homework
No B.B. ???
No Gary Moore? A total monster.
60s
Duane Allman for sure!
Steve Winwood although he get little recognition?
Yes indeed, all are unique ????-????’ist..????..
Mick Taylor was the best guitarist the Stones ever had. Listen to Get Your Ya Yas Out.
Roy
Roy Buchanan,Duane, Steve Gaines? Lol hard to pick em all.
Stevie Ray Vaughan is another. You’d need a top 25 or more to cover the greats.
What about Dick Taylor (Pretty Things) and Alan Wilson (Canned Heat)
Totally agree. In the purist sense, Blind Owl lived the Blues the Blues his harmonica and guitar.
Alvin Lee – the most under-recognized Blues Rock guitarist ever
Roy Buchanan should be on the list
You gest, Keith Richards is about the only one who can, ‘nearly ‘ master the Blues, as for the rest FORGET!!
Samantha Fish?
Otis Taylor for his trans blues style.
I was lucky enough to see
Kim Simmons
Clapton
Kossoff
Mcphee
Alvin Lee
And Irelands greatest musician
Mr Rory Gallagher. By every account a kind human being.
Along with Johnny Winter, the two greatest white guitarists of electric blues.
5Samatha Fish 60s ?
I’m learning so much from these comments. Listen to Jimi daily. “Little Wing” is the best 2 and half minute song ever written.
You speak the Truth brother…
Where is Albert Collins in all this? Isn’t he good enough?lian
Where’s Alvin Lee? If you looked up Blue’s Rock in the dictionary, there’d be a picture of Alvin Lee with his 335!
Glad you mentioned Johnny winter he gets so overlooked now see him at shepherd’s bush empire London a year before he passed. Amazing guitarist ????
Rory, Johnny,Kim Simmonds, and Peter Green what more do you really need the list goes on so many great guitarists of that genre.
There are so many great guitar players active in the 60’s not on that list:
Ry Cooder
Duane Almon
Henry Vestine
Terry Haggerty
Zal Yanofsky
Robbie Robertson
Harvey Mandel
John Cippolina