Tampa Red, born Hudson Woodbridge on January 8, 1904, in Smithville, Georgia, became one of the most influential American blues and ragtime musicians and songwriters of the early 20th century, known particularly for his stellar guitar work. He later adopted the name of Tampa Red due to his childhood move to Tampa, Florida, and the reddish hue of his hair. Red's contribution to the blues genre was substantial, carving his niche in the Chicago blues scene with his signature bottleneck slide guitar technique.

Known as "The Guitar Wizard," Tampa Red's career spanned several decades during which he recorded hundreds of songs that have been vital to the development of the blues genre. His style was marked by a singular combination of dexterity, precision, and melodic sensibility, which influenced many future artists. In the 1920s and 1930s, he played with the likes of Thomas A. Dorsey, and his collaborations often led to classic recordings that have since become cornerstones of vintage blues collections. Red's influence extended beyond the blues, contributing to the development of early rock and roll, and his work is often pilfered by aficionados seeking to understand the genre's roots. Tampa Red passed away on March 19, 1981, but "The Guitar Wizard's" legacy lives on through his extensive discography, including notable albums such as "Bottleneck Classics - Sliding with Tampa Red" and "They Called Him Tampa Red." His songs and style continue to be celebrated by blues enthusiasts and musicians around the world.

Genres

Acoustic Blues

Chicago Blues

Country Blues

Traditional Blues

Latest Release

Bottleneck Classics - Sliding with Tampa Red

Tampa Red

Album - 11 Tracks - Released September 15, 2023