Travelin’ Man – Eddie 9V
New Blues: From Back Alleys to Mainstream, with a Twist
New Blues, also known as Contemporary Blues, emerged in the 1960s as a fresh take on the traditional blues sound. It was a time of societal upheaval and musical experimentation, and blues musicians were eager to blend their roots with new influences.
From the Roots Up: The blues had always been about telling stories of hardship and resilience, but the New Blues generation injected a new sense of urgency. Influenced by rock ‘n’ roll, soul, and even folk music, they explored themes of social injustice, racial equality, and political protest.
The Pioneers: Figures like Albert King, Buddy Guy, and B.B. King paved the way. They took the raw energy of traditional blues and amplified it with searing guitar solos and innovative song structures.
Funny Fact: Buddy Guy, known for his wild stage antics, once challenged a fan who was heckling him to a guitar duel. The fan, however, was a 10-year-old girl who had just picked up the instrument. Guy, known for his good humor, put down his guitar and said, “I’m not playing with that kid. She might beat me.”
Beyond the Traditional: New Blues also saw the rise of John Mayall, a British musician who became a champion of blues revivalism. His Bluesbreakers band featured young stars like Eric Clapton and Peter Green, who brought a fresh perspective to the genre.
Funny Fact: Mayall, known for his peculiar taste in music, once said he considered Frank Zappa a “blues musician” despite Zappa’s avant-garde and often experimental approach.
The Legacy: Today, New Blues continues to thrive. Artists like Gary Clark Jr., Chris Stapleton, and Joe Bonamassa carry the torch, blending traditional blues with modern sensibilities and captivating audiences worldwide.
Funny Fact: Gary Clark Jr. is known for his unconventional approach to blues, even incorporating elements of hip-hop and funk into his sound. He once said, “I don’t want to be stuck in a box. I want to make music that makes people feel something.”
New Blues, with its raw energy and innovative spirit, proves that the blues is not just about the past, but a vibrant, evolving genre with a powerful story to tell. And with its rich history and diverse voices, it continues to inspire and entertain generations.