The 1971 song Jimmy Page called too dark to describe: “So ominous”
“Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law.”
Blues
Blues is a music genre that originated within African American communities in the Deep South of the United States during the late 19th century. Rooted in spirituals, work songs, field hollers and folk traditions, the blues developed a distinctive musical language built around expressive vocals, call-and-response patterns and the twelve-bar blues progression.
During the 20th century, artists such as Robert Johnson, Bessie Smith, Muddy Waters, Howlin’ Wolf and BB King helped transform the genre into a global musical force. Blues became the foundation for rock and roll, rhythm and blues, soul and countless other styles, influencing generations of musicians. Its themes of resilience, hardship, love and hope continue to resonate with audiences around the world.
The guitarist Eric Clapton was constantly in awe of: “I’m quite narrow”
One hell of a guitar player.
Long John Baldry: The forgotten 1950s musician who helped launch two of Britain’s biggest solo stars
“He really did change the course of my life, bless his heart…”
“Some of the legends of our time”: The 1987 song that shaped Noel Gallagher into an icon
“One of the greatest moments in rock…”
The 1941 song Eric Clapton will never get tired of: “An incredible thing”
The highest amount of swagger.
More About Blues
Blues is a music genre that originated in African American communities in the southern United States, characterised by expressive vocals, distinctive chord progressions and themes of love, hardship and perseverance.
Robert Johnson, BB King, Muddy Waters, Howlin' Wolf, Bessie Smith, John Lee Hooker and Etta James are widely regarded as some of the most influential figures in blues history.
Blues provided the musical foundation for rock and roll, with artists such as Chuck Berry, The Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin, Eric Clapton and Jimi Hendrix drawing heavily on its chord structures, guitar techniques and lyrical themes.