Recommended for rock fans too! — A classic album of modern blues
The birth of the blues, often called the root of rock ’n’ roll and jazz, dates back to the late 19th century.
Its forms are diverse and can’t be summed up in a single phrase: from Delta blues and country blues—often referred to as prewar blues—to Chicago blues and modern blues, which developed after the war in Chicago and incorporated electric instruments.
In this article, we introduce classic blues albums whose style and spirit continue to be carried on by many musicians even in the 2020s.
The lineup focuses mainly on modern blues that’s easy for beginners to enjoy, so even those who usually listen to rock will find it accessible.
- A classic blues rock masterpiece. A highly recommended album you should listen to at least once.
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Recommended for rock fans too! — Masterpieces of Modern Blues (91–100)
Big Road BluesTommy Johnson
Tommy Johnson, born in 1896 in Terry, Mississippi, was an American guitarist and singer.
He is regarded as one of the founders of pre-war Jackson blues and, alongside Charley Patton, is considered a key figure in Mississippi Delta blues.
He recorded eight songs in Memphis in 1928 during Victor’s field recordings and six songs for Paramount in 1930.
His distinctive vocals featured falsetto, and his 1928 track Big Road Blues is his signature song, covered by many blues musicians.
Chicken Shack BluesChampion Jack Dupree
Champion Jack Dupree also played blues on the piano.
His uptempo number “Chicken Shack Blues,” which foreshadowed rhythm and blues, became such a hit that a group later adopted the name as their band name.
Recommended for rock fans too! - Modern Blues Masterpieces (101–110)
Christo RedemptorCharley Musselwhite
While carrying on the blues tradition, Charley Musselwhite continues to explore new music.
His debut album, Stand Back! Here Comes Charley Musselwhite’s Southside Band, released in 1967, is a pivotal record that laid the foundation for his musical career.
Showcasing a range of blues styles—including Chicago blues and electric blues—it captivates with Musselwhite’s smooth harmonica work and husky vocals.
Hailed as one of the finest achievements by a white blues band, it served as a bridge between blues and rock ’n’ roll.
A must-listen not only for blues fans but also for rock enthusiasts.
Somebody Loan Me A DimeFenton Robinson
Do you know Fenton Robinson? Born in 1935, he was a heavyweight in the blues world—a guitarist and singer who was active mainly in Chicago.
His jazz-influenced guitar playing and rich baritone voice are captivating.
Released in 1974, “Somebody Loan Me a Dime” is one of his signature works.
The title track is a classic that has been covered by many artists and was even used in the film The Blues Brothers.
Robinson’s music preserves the traditions of the blues while incorporating elements of jazz and soul into a unique style.
The sound world woven by his smooth guitar and expressive vocals is sure to win over not only blues lovers but rock fans as well!
It Serves Me Right to SufferJimmy Dawkins
Jimmy Dawkins, a leading figure in Chicago blues, released his debut album “Fast Fingers” in 1969—an acclaimed masterpiece that fully showcases the lightning-fast fretwork that became his trademark.
The record captivates with dynamic, high-energy guitar playing and deeply expressive vocals, delivering a classic, straight-ahead blues sound.
Highlights include collaborations with top-tier musicians like Eddie Shaw and Mighty Joe Young.
International recognition followed, including winning “Best Blues Album” in France in 1971.
It’s a must-hear not only for those who want to savor the essence of the blues, but also for rock fans.
Just Like YouKeb’ Mo’
Keb’ Mo’ is an American blues musician known for blending modern elements into Delta blues.
Since his debut in 1994, he has continued to receive high acclaim.
His third album, Just Like You, released on June 18, 1996, drew attention with guest appearances by Jackson Browne and Bonnie Raitt.
Rooted in blues while incorporating pop and R&B elements, the album won the 1997 Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Blues Album.
Produced by John Porter, it also features clear, detailed sound quality.
Breaking new ground in the blues, this is a highly recommended record even for rock fans.
TrampLowell Fulson
When blues guitarist and singer Lowell Fulson released the song “Tramp” in 1967, plenty of hip-hop heads likely perked up the first time they heard it, thinking, “Wait a second…!” Blending funk elements into a soulful blues number, “Tramp” is known as a classic that Otis Redding covered as a duet with the Queen of Memphis Soul, Carla Thomas—and later became a foundational source, sampled in numerous tracks, most famously Cypress Hill’s “How I Could Just Kill A Man.” It’s a bona fide proto-funk blues classic.
The album released the same year under the title Tramp lines up track after track that, while rooted in the blues, throb with powerful funkiness—effectively bridging blues and soul.
If you’re curious about Lowell Fulson, a musician who even influenced B.
B.
King, start with this one!