10 Must Hear Blues Rock Collaborations
Whether it’s a clash of generations, old-school vs. new-school, genre mash-ups, or simply doubling down on a specific subgenre, there’s something special about great artists collaborating on each other’s records. This is by no means a grading exercise or a top 10, it’s simply a list of 10 blues rock collaborations that are must-hears.
B.B. King & Eric Clapton – “Riding With the King”
A B.B. King and Eric Clapton classic. As a youngster just discovering blues, this was my absolute go-to. Incredible guitar playing, outstanding vocal performances packed with feel, and irresistible groove throughout the track. Essential track, as well as the album as a whole.
Koko Taylor & Buddy Guy – “Born Under a Bad Sign”
The Queen of the Blues herself – Koko Taylor teams up with the legendary Buddy Guy to add grit to this Albert King classic. Delivered with unmatched emotion and attitude, this 1993 version can’t be missed.
Albert King & Stevie Ray Vaughan – “Don’t Lie To Me”
Taken from their 1983 televised live recording In Session, this performance is truly electric, showcasing two completely mind-blowing guitar gods having fun. Throughout the entire session there’s almost a master – disciple dynamic between the two, which is funny in hindsight considering how massive a name SRV is, and how big a legacy he’s left behind.
Buddy Guy & Junior Wells – “Messin’ With the Kid”
Buddy Guy and Junior Wells join forces on “Messin’ With the Kid”. Widely known as an upbeat Chicago Blues standard, this version is slightly more laid back but not any less funky. Amazing brass parts powering the already groovy rhythm section. Junior on the vocals, and Buddy delivering his signature-style solo. Tasty!
Howlin’ Wolf, Eric Clapton, Steve Winwood, Charlie Watts & Bill
Wyman – “Highway 49”
Picked out from The London Howlin’ Wolf Sessions, a killer slide riff kick-starts this blues shuffle performed by an all-star lineup. Energy simply bursts out of this one, with Howlin’ Wolf’s unique vocals sending chills down your spine. A true clash of blues and rock legends.
John Lee Hooker & Bonnie Raitt – “I’m In the Mood”
John Lee Hooker’s dirty guitar playing and soulful vocals are complemented so nicely by Bonnie Raitt’s spicy ad-libs on this track. The recording session for this was apparently so electric that Bonnie recalls needing a moment to compose herself afterward. That genuine emotion truly shines through the record itself.
Muddy Waters & The Rolling Stones – “Hoochie Coochie Man” (Live)
One of the most recognisable blues tunes of all time. Rock n’ roll bad boys, The Rolling Stones have always worn their influences on their sleeves, and Muddy Waters is the absolute top of that list. Recorded on a whim in Chicago in 1981, a truly memorable live performance
The Marcus King Band & Warren Haynes – “Virginia”
Oh what a tune! This track is what got me obsessed with Marcus King. Incredible guitar playing, even better vocal performance, all spiced up by Warren Haynes’ southern swagger and otherworldly guitar playing. Rich guitar tones, conversational solos, the band pumping the energy. Just incredible!
Taj Mahal & Keb’ Mo’ – “Don’t Leave Me Here”
A groovy track packing tonnes of soul picked straight off a 2017 collab album titled TajMo. Tight production, two great blues vocals, a luxurious brass section, fiery harmonica solos, delicious guitar licks, a true masterclass by these two blues heavyweights.
Albert Collins, Robert Cray & Johnny Copeland – “T-Bone Shuffle”
Guitar mastery overload in this blues standard recorded in 1985 by a truly impressive line-up. A relentless shuffle, and three blues guitar giants having the time of their lives trying to challenge each other.
Different styles, different eras, different tempos, but all 10 are absolute blues masterpieces. Did I miss anything blatantly obvious? Any hidden gems you love? Let me know in the comments below.
