10 Unforgettable Blues Rock Guitarists of the 1990s
The 1990s may be remembered as the era of grunge, alternative rock, and the rise of hip hop, but for blues rock fans, it was also a memorable period for some incredible guitar work. While the genre saw new developments and crossovers, the raw emotion and technical prowess that defines blues rock continued to thrive.
Here are 10 unforgettable blues rock guitarists who made their mark in the ’90s, delivering timeless licks and soul-stirring performances.
Kenny Wayne Shepherd
Kenny Wayne Shepherd was still a teenager when he released his debut album Ledbetter Heights in 1995. Despite his age, Kenny played with the intensity of a seasoned veteran. Inspired by Stevie Ray Vaughan, Shepherd’s aggressive, riff-heavy playing set him apart. Shepherd struck gold in 1997 with the album Trouble Is… featuring the massive chart-topping hit, “Blue on Black” showing he wasn’t just a flashy guitar player but a great songwriter as well. Shepherd was the rare artist able to bring blues influences to the mainstream.
Walter Trout
A veteran of the blues rock scene, Walter Trout was already making waves in the ’80s as a member of Canned Heat and the lead guitarist for John Mayall’s Bluesbreakers, but the 1990s is when his solo career really got going. Albums like Prisoner of a Dream (1990) and Transition (1992) showcased his ferocious playing and heartfelt songwriting. Trout’s gritty, impassioned performances and powerful guitar licks made him a beloved figure in the blues rock world throughout the decade.
Gary Moore
Gary Moore’s career spanned multiple decades, but the 1990s saw him solidify his reputation as one of the greatest blues rock guitarists of all time. His 1990 album Still Got the Blues is considered a modern classic, featuring the hit title track and collaborations with legends like Albert King. Moore’s emotional playing and technical mastery set him apart, especially on standout tracks like “Midnight Blues.”
Warren Haynes
Warren Haynes was instrumental in keeping blues rock alive in the ’90s as the guitarist for Gov’t Mule and The Allman Brothers Band. Haynes brought an electrifying mix of Southern rock and blues to the forefront, particularly with the Allman Brothers Band classic “Soulshine” (1994) and on Gov’t Mule’s self-titled debut in 1995. His powerful tone, expressive slide work, and deep understanding of the blues’ roots made him a standout player, and his impact continues to resonate today.
Jonny Lang
Bursting onto the scene as a teenage prodigy with the 1997 release Lie to Me, Jonny Lang’s smoky voice and dynamic guitar work took the blues rock world by storm. Lang’s ability to inject a modern flair into traditional blues made him a sensation, and his high-energy performances captivated audiences. His youth and talent brought a fresh wave of interest to the genre as Lang was at the forefront of the modern blues movement.
Eric Gales
Hailing from Memphis, Eric Gales brought a unique blend of blues, rock, and Hendrix-inspired psychedelia to the table in the 1990s. His debut self-titled Eric Gales Band album in 1991 revealed a young guitarist with remarkable fluidity, tone, and an innovative approach to blues rock. Gales’ distinctive playing and fiery solos earned him a loyal following, and he remains one of the genre’s most dynamic performers.
Tinsley Ellis
Tinsley Ellis helped carry the torch for gritty Southern blues rock in the ’90s. His albums Storm Warning (1994) and Fire It Up (1997) were filled with blistering solos and soulful vocals that earned him a loyal following. Ellis’ fiery guitar style, inspired by legends like Freddie King, positioned him as one of the era’s standout blues rockers. His track “A Quitter Never Wins” from Storm Warning was famously covered by Jonny Lang.
Sue Foley
Canadian blues guitarist Sue Foley made waves in the ’90s with her mix of traditional and modern blues rock. Her 1992 album Young Girl Blues featured her sharp guitar work and heartfelt vocals, making her a standout in the male-dominated blues rock scene. Foley’s dedication to the blues and her skillful playing have kept her in the spotlight ever since.
Jeff Healey
Canadian guitarist Jeff Healey was already a well-known figure by the start of the 1990s, but his work in the decade helped him reach new heights. Known for playing his guitar flat on his lap due to blindness, Healey’s incredible technical ability and emotional delivery were unparalleled. His 1990 album Hell to Pay contained hits like the tile track and “I Think I Love You Too Much.” His distinctive style made him one of the decade’s most memorable blues rock guitarists.
Buddy Guy
Buddy Guy, a true legend of blues rock, experienced a remarkable resurgence in the 1990s, earning widespread acclaim for his raw, high-energy guitar playing. During this decade, Guy released a string of successful albums, including Damn Right, I’ve Got the Blues (1991), Feels Like Rain (1993), and Slippin’ In (1994) which not only reintroduced him to a new generation of fans but also earned him multiple Grammy Awards. The 1990s was a hugely successful decade for Buddy Guy.
Very good selections, but one major ommision –
In tandem with Warren Haynes in the Allman Brothers, as well as recording with his own band(s), Derek Trucks should most definitely be included in this 1990s listing.
Spelling correction to my post:
omission (not ommision)
Ommission identifies as Omission so you’re cool.
I fully agree. Derek Trucks should definitely be there!
Good list, but you should’ve definitely included Jimmy Thackery & Tab Benoit, & Johnny Winter was still very good in the early 90’s & put out a couple of great blues albums before he burned out in the late 90’s, early 2000’s….
List INVALID.
SRV WAS THE BEST OF ALL OF THEM And not on
List?
Robert Cray omitted?
You Ppl are ILLITERATES.
Please study up before you embarress yourselves.
Surprised you didnt have Taylor Swift on thats your mentality.
Stevie not there?!
While Stevie Ray Vaughn gifted us with many great LPs, his recording era was almost exclusively in the 1980s.
He sadly died in August of 1990, and the 1991 LP “The Sky is Crying” was assembled from outtakes of previous album sessions in the 1980s.
I would agree that Thackery, Tab Benoit, Derek Trucks, and Johnny Winter should be included. Other guys missing are Guitar Shorty, Michael “Iron Man” Burke, and the tandem of Bnois King and Smokin’ Joe Kubek.
Agree 100% Derek was a Prodigy at 9 yrs old! He’s amazing and very smooth as he is a minimalist. He proves more is often not better when referencing the guitar.
Michael Burks ?
Jonny winter is the best
Check out Gregg Wright, master blues player and guitarist for Michael Jackson.
Don’t forget Chris Duarte band.
My way Down-Chris Duarte band
In addition to Tab Benoit, you left out the great Robben Ford and the late Danny Gatton.