Sleepy John Estes, born as John Adam Estes on January 25, 1899, in Ripley, Tennessee, was a seminal American blues guitarist, songwriter, and vocalist characterized by his unique vocal style. Often cited as one of the most individualistic and expressive bluesmen, Sleepy John's nickname came from his tendency to appear drowsy and his droopy eyelids, an attribute which added to his stage presence.

Widely known for his emotionally charged singing and potent songwriting, his work detailed the hardships of life in the rural South with songs that chronicled real-life experiences, including poverty, and the African-American experience of the early and mid-20th century. A cornerstone in the fabric of country blues, Estes frequently collaborated with other blues icons such as Hammie Nixon and Yank Rachell, contributing to a legacy that has deeply influenced blues music. Though his recording career experienced several dormant periods, largely due to economic factors and changes in public tastes, his discovery by folklorists during the 1960s blues revival led to a resurgence in popularity. Sleepy John Estes passed away on June 5, 1977, leaving behind a wealth of recordings that serve as a testament to his profound impact on the blues genre.

Genres

Country Blues

Memphis Blues

Traditional Blues

Related Artists

Robert Johnson

Son House

Skip James

Lightnin' Hopkins

Bukka White

Mississippi John Hurt

John Lee Hooker

Muddy Waters

Blind Willie McTell

Big Bill Broonzy

Blind Lemon Jefferson

Howlin' Wolf

Latest Release

Blues Is Drawing Near

Sleepy John Estes

Album - 9 Tracks - Released August 2, 2024