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.