10 Must Hear Blues Rock Guitarists Over 70

Blues rock is a genre that thrives on experience, soul, and mastery, and there are few artists who embody these qualities better than the legends who’ve been playing for decades. These guitarists, now in their 70s and beyond, continue to inspire with their timeless artistry, proving that age is no barrier to delivering electrifying performances.

Here are 10 must-hear blues rock guitarists over 70 who are still rocking.

Eric Clapton

Eric Clapton, one of the most iconic guitarists in music history, has influenced virtually every blues rock player that followed him. Now in his late 70s, Clapton continues to showcase his unparalleled skill and passion for the blues. From his early days with Cream to hit songs in his solo career like “Change The World” and “Tears in Heaven,” Clapton’s smooth, expressive guitar playing remains as powerful as ever. His most recent performances, including at the Crossroads Guitar Festival, prove that Slowhand still has the magic touch. Clapton isn’t slowing down releasing a new album, Meanwhile, at the age of 79.

Buddy Guy

At 88, Buddy Guy is not just a living legend—he’s an unstoppable force. His influence on the blues rock world is profound, having mentored guitar greats like Eric Clapton, Jimi Hendrix, and Stevie Ray Vaughan. Known for his fiery, unpredictable playing style and electrifying live performances, Buddy Guy still tours extensively, captivating audiences with classics like “Damn Right, I’ve Got the Blues” and “Stone Crazy.” His 2022 album The Blues Don’t Lie shows that he’s still at the top of his game.

Keith Richards

Keith Richards, the riff master behind The Rolling Stones, is a pillar of blues rock guitar. As the Stones’ rhythm guitarist, Richards’ minimalist but powerful style has shaped some of rock’s most iconic songs, from “Jumpin’ Jack Flash” to “Gimme Shelter.” At 80, Richards continues to tour with The Stones, proving that his signature swagger and gritty blues-inspired playing remain timeless. His love for the blues, particularly his admiration for American bluesmen like Muddy Waters, shines through in every note he plays.

Robin Trower

Best known for his work in Procol Harum and his influential solo career, Robin Trower has been wowing audiences with his unique brand of blues rock for over five decades. His 1974 album Bridge of Sighs is a cornerstone of the genre, and his soulful, Hendrix-inspired playing continues to resonate with fans worldwide. Now in his late 70s, Trower is still producing music, with his recent albums showcasing the same expressive guitar work that made him a legend.

Walter Trout

Walter Trout’s journey through blues rock has been one of resilience and mastery. After a life-threatening liver disease almost ended his career, Trout returned to the stage stronger than ever, continuing to release powerful music and tour relentlessly. At 73, his fiery playing and emotive solos remain some of the most impassioned in the genre. Trout continues to go strong with his latest album, Broken, hitting #1 on the Billboard Blues chart.

Jimmy Page

As the legendary guitarist and driving force behind Led Zeppelin, Jimmy Page is responsible for some of the most iconic riffs and solos in rock history. Tracks like “Whole Lotta Love” and “Dazed and Confused” redefined what rock and blues guitar could be. Though Page’s touring schedule has slowed down, his legacy looms large, and his occasional live appearances still demonstrate his unparalleled command of the instrument. At 80, Page remains a must-hear guitarist for any blues rock fan.

Billy Gibbons

Billy Gibbons, the guitar wizard of ZZ Top, has been delivering raw, bluesy riffs and signature tones since the 1970s. His unmistakable sound, characterized by his heavy use of pinch harmonics and slide guitar, has made him one of the most distinctive players in rock. Now in his mid-70s, Gibbons continues to tour and record, with his recent solo work showing that he hasn’t lost his touch. Tracks like “La Grange” and “Sharp Dressed Man” remain as iconic as ever, and Gibbons’ place in blues rock history is secure.

Jimmie Vaughan

As the older brother of Stevie Ray Vaughan, Jimmie Vaughan has forged his own successful career, blending traditional blues with a smooth, understated style that is instantly recognizable. Now in his early 70s, Jimmie continues to perform and release music, with his elegant, no-frills guitar playing captivating audiences. Tracks like “Six Strings Down” and his work with The Fabulous Thunderbirds showcase his blues rock prowess and subtle mastery of the genre.

Robert Cray

Though Robert Cray emerged in the late 1970s, his refined blend of blues, soul, and rock has made him one of the most influential guitarists of his era. Known for his clean, crisp tone and emotive playing, Cray, now in his 70s, continues to tour and release music, winning Grammy Awards along the way. Songs like “Right Next Door (Because of Me)” and “Smoking Gun” feature his distinctive sound, making Cray an essential listen for any blues rock fan.

Steve Cropper

Steve Cropper, a founding member of Booker T. & the MG’s and a key player behind countless Stax Records hits, is a blues and soul guitar legend. Now in his early 80s, Cropper’s subtle, rhythmic playing has been the backbone of songs like “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay” by Otis Redding and “In the Midnight Hour” by Wilson Pickett. His ability to blend blues, rock, and soul has influenced generations of guitarists, and he continues to tour and record, bringing his signature sound to new audiences. Cropper released a new album in 2024 called Friendlytown.