Electric Blues

Table of Contents

Origins

Electric Blues had its big boom in the post-World War II era, especially in cities like Chicago. As folks moved from the rural South to the industrial North, they brought the blues with ’em.

But this time, the blues needed to be louder to cut through the noise of crowded bars and urban life. Enter the electric guitar, and Electric Blues was born.

The Sound

Electric Blues is bold, it’s brash, and it’s a full-on sonic assault; distorted guitars, wailing harmonicas, and booming drums. It’s blues with an adrenaline shot.

Heroes

When we talk about Electric Blues, a few names just gotta be mentioned:

First off, the Three Kings: B.B. King, Albert King, and Freddie King. These artists practically defined what Electric Blues guitar should sound like.

And let’s not forget Muddy Waters, the father of Chicago Blues.

On the female side, artists like Koko Taylor and Etta James could belt out Electric Blues like nobody’s business.

Iconic Albums You’ve Gotta Hear

Wondering where to start? Get your ears on these essential Electric Blues albums:

• “Live at the Regal” by B.B. King
• “Hard Again” by Muddy Waters
• “Born Under a Bad Sign” by Albert King
• “Let Me Love You Baby” by Buddy Guy

Instruments

Essential gear includes a tube amp, a versatile electric guitar, and some effects pedals like a wah-wah or a Tube Screamer.

The Cultural Beat

What makes Electric Blues so darn important?

Well, it’s the backbone of so much that came after it, like Rock ‘n’ Roll; thank Jimi Hendrix and Eric Clapton, who took Electric Blues to new heights.

Even genres like soul and R&B owe a debt to the electrified sound of the blues.

FAQ