Blues rock is a genre that blends the raw emotion of blues with the high-energy riffs of rock and roll. If you enjoy the soulful guitar work and powerful vocals of Kenny Wayne Shepherd, you’ll love these 15 bands and artists who bring a similar vibe to their music. Check out the links to discover more!
1. Joe Bonamassa
Joe Bonamassa is a prolific blues rock guitarist known for his fiery solos and deep, soulful voice. Popular songs include “Sloe Gin” and “The Ballad of John Henry,” and his albums like Blues of Desperation have received critical acclaim.
2. Gary Clark Jr.
Gary Clark Jr. brings a modern twist to the blues rock genre with his blend of blues, rock, and soul. His hit songs “Bright Lights” and “When My Train Pulls In” showcase his incredible guitar skills and vocal prowess. His album Blak and Blu is a must-listen.
3. John Mayer
While John Mayer is often associated with pop rock, his foray into blues rock is noteworthy. His work with the John Mayer Trio and albums like Continuum feature tracks such as “Gravity” and “Slow Dancing in a Burning Room,” which highlight his blues influence.
4. Derek Trucks
Derek Trucks is a slide guitar virtuoso who has made significant contributions to the blues rock scene. Known for his work with the Tedeschi Trucks Band, songs like “Midnight in Harlem” and “Bound for Glory” are fan favorites.
5. Susan Tedeschi
Susan Tedeschi, often performing alongside Derek Trucks, is a powerful blues rock singer and guitarist. Her albums Just Won’t Burn and Hope and Desire feature tracks like “It Hurt So Bad” and “Rock Me Right.”
6. Walter Trout
Walter Trout is a seasoned blues rock guitarist whose career spans several decades. Known for songs like “Say Goodbye to the Blues” and “Ride,” his album Battle Scars is a testament to his enduring talent.
7. Jonny Lang
Jonny Lang burst onto the blues rock scene as a teenager and has continued to impress with his gritty voice and guitar skills. Hits like “Lie to Me” and “Breakin’ Me” from his album Lie to Me are essential listens.
8. Buddy Guy
Buddy Guy is a living legend in the blues rock world, influencing countless musicians with his electrifying guitar work. Songs like “Damn Right, I’ve Got the Blues” and “Feels Like Rain” from his album Damn Right, I’ve Got the Blues are iconic.
9. Tab Benoit
Tab Benoit blends Cajun influences with blues rock, creating a unique sound. His songs “Medicine” and “Shelter Me” from the album Medicine showcase his distinctive style and powerful vocals.
10. Robert Cray
Robert Cray’s smooth voice and clean guitar playing have made him a staple in the blues rock genre. Tracks like “Smoking Gun” and “Right Next Door (Because of Me)” from his album Strong Persuader are classics.
11. Eric Gales
Eric Gales is known for his virtuosic guitar skills and dynamic stage presence. Songs like “Boogie Man” and “Southpaw Serenade” from his album Middle of the Road demonstrate his exceptional talent.
12. Ana Popovic
Ana Popovic is a Serbian blues rock guitarist and singer who has gained international acclaim. Her albums Can You Stand the Heat and Unconditional feature tracks like “Can You Stand the Heat” and “Object of Obsession.”
13. Philip Sayce
Philip Sayce delivers high-energy blues rock with a modern edge. His songs “Alchemy” and “Peace Machine” from the album Peace Machine are powerful examples of his guitar prowess and vocal intensity.
14. Joanne Shaw Taylor
Joanne Shaw Taylor is a British blues rock guitarist known for her soulful voice and fiery guitar work. Tracks like “White Sugar” and “Diamonds in the Dirt” from her albums of the same names are fan favorites.
15. The Marcus King Band
The Marcus King Band blends blues rock with Southern rock and soul, creating a rich, dynamic sound. Songs like “The Well” and “Goodbye Carolina” from the album Carolina Confessions highlight Marcus King’s impressive guitar skills and emotive vocals.
Explore these artists and bands to dive deeper into the world of blues rock, and you’ll find a treasure trove of soulful, electrifying music.