Blues music has a way of touching the soul, and few artists have done it as profoundly as Lightnin’ Hopkins. Known for his emotive guitar playing and raw vocal delivery, Hopkins has inspired countless other musicians in the blues genre. Here are 18 bands and artists that evoke a similar spirit and style.

1. Muddy Waters

Muddy Waters is often hailed as the father of modern Chicago blues. His hits like “Hoochie Coochie Man” and “Mannish Boy” are iconic, and his album Hard Again is a must-listen.

2. Howlin’ Wolf

Howlin’ Wolf’s deep, gravelly voice and powerful stage presence made him a blues legend. Songs like “Smokestack Lightning” and “Spoonful” showcase his intense style, and his album Moanin’ in the Moonlight is a classic.

3. John Lee Hooker

John Lee Hooker’s driving, rhythmic guitar style and hypnotic voice made him a blues icon. Tracks like “Boom Boom” and “One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer” are timeless, and his album The Healer gained critical acclaim.

4. B.B. King

B.B. King’s smooth guitar licks and soulful voice earned him the title “King of the Blues.” His songs “The Thrill Is Gone” and “Every Day I Have the Blues” are essential listening, and his live album Live at the Regal is legendary.

5. Son House

Son House’s raw, emotional singing and slide guitar work influenced generations of blues musicians. His songs “Death Letter” and “Grinnin’ in Your Face” are hauntingly beautiful, and his album Father of the Delta Blues is a masterpiece.

6. Robert Johnson

Robert Johnson’s mysterious life and virtuosic guitar skills have made him a mythic figure in blues history. His recordings of “Cross Road Blues” and “Sweet Home Chicago” are foundational, and the compilation The Complete Recordings is essential.

7. T-Bone Walker

T-Bone Walker’s pioneering electric guitar work paved the way for future blues and rock musicians. His song “Call It Stormy Monday” is a classic, and his album T-Bone Blues showcases his innovative style.

8. Elmore James

Elmore James is known as the king of the slide guitar. His song “Dust My Broom” is iconic, and his album The Sky Is Crying is a testament to his influence on the blues genre.

9. Albert King

Albert King’s powerful guitar playing and deep voice made him a blues legend. His song “Born Under a Bad Sign” is a staple, and his album Live Wire/Blues Power captures his electrifying live performances.

10. Freddie King

Freddie King’s energetic guitar style and soulful voice earned him a spot in the blues pantheon. His hits “Hide Away” and “Have You Ever Loved a Woman” are classics, and his album Burglar is highly regarded.

11. Big Bill Broonzy

Big Bill Broonzy’s versatile guitar playing and rich voice made him a key figure in the transition from country blues to urban blues. His songs “Key to the Highway” and “All by Myself” are noteworthy, and his album The Young Big Bill Broonzy is essential.

12. Blind Lemon Jefferson

Blind Lemon Jefferson’s high-pitched voice and intricate guitar work made him a standout in the early blues scene. His songs “Matchbox Blues” and “See That My Grave Is Kept Clean” are timeless, and his compilation album King of the Country Blues is a must-have.

13. Skip James

Skip James’ haunting falsetto and unique guitar tunings set him apart from other blues musicians. His songs “Devil Got My Woman” and “Hard Time Killing Floor Blues” are hauntingly beautiful, and his album Today! is a classic.

14. Mississippi John Hurt

Mississippi John Hurt’s gentle voice and intricate fingerpicking made him a beloved figure in the blues world. His songs “Candy Man” and “Make Me a Pallet on Your Floor” are delightful, and his album Today! is a gem.

15. Lead Belly

Lead Belly’s powerful voice and 12-string guitar playing made him a folk and blues legend. His songs “Goodnight, Irene” and “Midnight Special” are classics, and his album The Definitive Lead Belly is a great introduction to his work.

16. Junior Kimbrough

Junior Kimbrough’s hypnotic, droning blues style earned him a dedicated following. His songs “All Night Long” and “Meet Me in the City” are mesmerizing, and his album Most Things Haven’t Worked Out is highly regarded.

17. R.L. Burnside

R.L. Burnside’s gritty voice and driving rhythms made him a standout in the Mississippi hill country blues scene. His songs “It’s Bad You Know” and “Let My Baby Ride” are electrifying, and his album Wish I Was in Heaven Sitting Down is a must-listen.

18. Buddy Guy

Buddy Guy’s fiery guitar playing and passionate vocals have made him a blues icon. His songs “Damn Right, I’ve Got the Blues” and “Feels Like Rain” are powerful, and his album Stone Crazy! is a testament to his virtuosity.