10 Influential Blues Rock Guitarists
Blues rock has been a defining force in modern music, bridging the raw emotion of the blues with the power and energy of rock. Over the years, certain guitarists have stood out not just for their technical ability but for their lasting impact on the genre. Here are ten of the most influential blues rock guitarists who have shaped the sound and inspired generations.
Eric Clapton
Eric Clapton is arguably the most well-known blues rock guitarist of all time. As a member of The Yardbirds, John Mayall & the Bluesbreakers, Cream, and Derek and the Dominos, Clapton helped define the British blues explosion of the 1960s. Clapton has a deep understanding of blues phrasing, impeccable vibrato, and top notch tone. His riff on “Layla” is one of the most iconic of al-time and his solo career further cemented his status, with songs like “Tears in Heaven” and “Change The World.” Clapton’s ability to blend blues authenticity with mainstream appeal has influenced countless musicians and he continues to release new music to this day.
Jimi Hendrix
Jimi Hendrix revolutionized guitar playing, bringing an unparalleled level of creativity to blues rock. Though he was known for his psychedelic sound, his foundation was deeply rooted in the blues. “Red House” and “Voodoo Child (Slight Return)” showcase his raw, expressive phrasing and mastery of feedback, bending, and vibrato. Hendrix’s innovative approach to the guitar, including his use of effects and unorthodox chord voicings, made him one of the most influential musicians in history.
Stevie Ray Vaughan
Stevie Ray Vaughan reinvigorated the blues in the 1980s, proving that blues rock could thrive in the era of pop and hair metal. His aggressive picking style, powerful bends, and dynamic control were unmatched. Song like “Pride and Joy,” “Texas Flood,” and “Scuttle Buttin” highlight his ability to combine Texas blues traditions with the fiery intensity of rock. Vaughan’s influence can be heard in countless modern guitarists who seek to emulate his soulful yet ferocious playing. Ask any blues rock guitar about their influences and there’s a good chance that Stevie Ray Vaughan is mentioned.
Albert King
Though more of a blues legend, Albert King had a profound influence on blues rock guitarists, particularly Stevie Ray Vaughan. His signature string bending and wide, stinging vibrato on Born Under a Bad Sign set the foundation for modern blues rock soloing. To this day, Albert’s songs are some of the most covered by modern day blues rockers.
Duane Allman
A slide guitar virtuoso and founding member of The Allman Brothers Band, Duane Allman brought a deeply expressive touch to blues rock. Despite his tragically short career, Allman’s innovative approach to slide guitar continues to inspire generations of musicians. His ability to blend blues, rock, and jazz influences with raw emotion set a new standard for expressive guitar playing in the genre.
Peter Green
Peter Green, the founder of Fleetwood Mac, was one of the most soulful blues guitarists of his time. His tone was pure, and his playing was deeply emotional. Songs like “Black Magic Woman” (later made famous by Santana) and “Albatross” showcase his hauntingly beautiful approach to the instrument. Green’s influence extended far beyond Fleetwood Mac’s early years, and his impact can still be felt in the blues rock scene today.
Billy Gibbons
Billy Gibbons, the driving force behind ZZ Top, has brought a unique blend of blues, rock, and Texas swagger to the genre. His thick, distorted guitar tone and groove-heavy riffs made songs like “La Grange” and “Tush” instant classics. Gibbons’ economy of notes, tasteful phrasing, and gritty delivery have made him one of the most distinctive guitarists in blues rock history. His influence stretches across multiple generations of rock and blues musicians and he’s still going strong today.
Gary Moore
Gary Moore was a master of both hard rock and blues, seamlessly transitioning between the two throughout his career. His solo work, particularly on albums like Still Got the Blues and Blues for Greeny, demonstrated his deep respect for traditional blues while adding his own fiery, emotional playing. Songs like “Parisienne Walkways” and “Still Got the Blues” are perfect examples of his soaring bends and sustain-laden solos. Moore’s ability to inject raw emotion into his playing made him a standout in blues rock.
Joe Bonamassa
Joe Bonamassa is one of the modern torchbearers of blues rock, blending vintage influences with a contemporary edge. A child prodigy who opened for B.B. King at the age of 12, Bonamassa has built an impressive career, releasing 28 #1 Billboard Blues albums, the most of any artist. His work on tracks like “Sloe Gin” and “Mountain Time” showcases his impeccable technique, dynamic control, and deep understanding of the blues. Bonamassa has helped keep blues rock relevant in the 21st century, inspiring a new generation of players.
Rory Gallagher
Rory Gallagher was a relentless live performer and one of the most passionate blues rock guitarists to ever pick up the instrument. Known for his raw, unfiltered tone and fiery playing. His no-nonsense approach to music and dedication to the blues influenced a wide range of artists, from Brian May to The Edge. Gallagher’s legacy as one of the most authentic and energetic blues rock guitarists continues to inspire musicians today. In 2024, Gallagher’s Fender Stratocaster sold for over $1.1 million showing his longlasting influence.
Need to add Mike Bloomfield to the list!
Yessss?
Absolutely. Totally forgotten by todays music journalists
Absolutely
Yes! How can have two ZZ Top “Kachunk-a Kachunk-a” guitarists be on this list while true to blues player like Mike is absent.
Need to add Robin Trower !!
Trower is the best!
Without doubt EC is the man who reigns supreme simply for his skill and body of work, Peter Green for his wonderful touch and tone, Joe Bonamassa so bloody skillful. Jeff Beck the master of sound. and many more. The best I’ve ever seen and heard and for me sits on top of the pile all though he is not really a rock blues guitarist is Tommy Emmanuel.
Should’ve included Johnny Winter…
I’ll add Gsry Clark Jr. Catfish Blues does it for me.
Agree 100%
Walter trout should be there
Without doubt!
Warren Haynes!?
It’s an absolute disgrace you never see Warren on lists of guitar greats. He’s a 5 tool genius.
Player, singer, writer, producer + arranger.
Brilliant.
Absolutely
What about Warren haynes and Derek Trucks.
It’s criminal how underrated and under appreciated Walter iz. He’s simply brilliant.
he shreds to much, the blues is about what u dont play
IF you include Walter Ttout you have to do Samantha Fish !
Without doubt EC is the man who reigns supreme simply for his skill and body of work, Peter Green for his wonderful touch and tone, Joe Bonamassa so bloody skillful. Jeff Beck the master of sound. and many more. The best I’ve ever seen and heard and for me sits on top of the pile all though he is not really a rock blues guitarist is Tommy Emmanuel.
Keith!
Alan Mirikitani of The Buddaheads.
Great call!
One of my favorite bands.
Never heard of him until your comment, just watched a couple hours of his stuff on YouTube. He’s absolutely awesome, can’t believe I hadn’t heard him. RIP BB Chung King.
Jimmy Page
Where is Buddy Guy??
Kim Simmonds!
One of the best
Where is Buddy? Jeff Healey?..cmon guys
Bonamassa? Seriously? Probably a dozen you could have mentioned ahead of him.
J J Cale His influance and colaberations with Eric Clapton are immence
P funks Eddie hazel
The great mister buddy guy!!!
Although I can agree with majority of the list, there are so many more, Buddy guy, Elmore James, T Bone Walker, Robert Cray, Muddy Waters and the list goes on. Some of the list were influenced by some of the above and if it wasn’t for these, would the likes of Clapton and others be the greats they are today?!
I’m glad someone mentioned Warren Haynes and Derek Trucks along with Johnny Winter Jeff Healey, and J.j. Cale, but Dickey Betts deserves a mention. If we’re including some old timers like Muddy, Albert King, and Buddy Guy, why not mention Hubert Sumlin and Freddy King? They definitely were influential in their own right!
Buddy Guy, Johnny Winter, Walter Trout, Robin Trower, Tab Benoit, Warren Háynes ???
Kenny Wayne Shepherd,
Buddy Guy,
Alvin Lee
Hey, people, this is a list of 10! Next time BRR should make 25 guitarists list to have enough space for all great axemen.
Definitely!
Where’s Esteban?????
The info commercial guitar salesman that looks like Zorro?.
Alvin Lee is so overlooked! One of the greats!
The Alvin Lee “The bluest blues ” is the best guitar solo on earth in the rock blues history.
👍
Claude, I’m glad you mentioned The Bluest Blues. I used to play it on my Blues radio show from time to time. Another DJ would also put it on when he did his show.
Also Robin Trower
Roy Buchanan.
Well you definitely got Peter Green and Rory Gallagher, and they definitely deserve the top 10, and so does Roy Buchanan…. And thankfully I got to see all three live!!! In fact on that list I’ve seen all of them except for Albert King….
Maybe you forgot but where is a mention of Jeff Beck
Paul Kossoff
Sure is nice to see Gary Moore recognized for a change.
So nice to see Duane Allman listed. He was one of the best ever.
What about John Mayall
What about. Paul. F. Kossoff.
What , you never heard of Ronnie Earl. Wow.
You got douchefloot Joe Bonnamassa and not DAVID GILMOUR…???
PSSSSHH…🖕
While many of the guitarists noted throughout the comments section are excellent musicians, the operative word is “Influential”, and their respective impact on other peers of their time, or younger guitarist acolytes, to follow in their footsteps.
The original listing of ten definitely hits that mark, on the criteria of influential.
A good list however where’s Alvin Lee he was a great blues player ????
And Danny Kirwan and Jeremy Spencer, although Danny didn’t continue with the blues after he was fired from Fleetwood Mac because he thought it was more a black man’s music,although ironically the homeless,nomadic lifestyle he ended up living was close to the lifestyle of a black bluesman in the heydey of the blues.