Elmore James, known as the "King of the Slide Guitar," was a pivotal American blues musician whose emotive singing and groundbreaking guitar work influenced many artists in the blues and rock genres. Born on January 27, 1918, in Richland, Mississippi, James's career began in the early 1940s. He crafted his distinctive sound by electrifying the traditional slide guitar technique, rendering it with an intensity and expressiveness that became his trademark. James's raw, passionate vocals and innovative guitar style can be heard in his classic recordings like "Dust My Broom" and "The Sky Is Crying."

Throughout the 1950s, Elmore James recorded for various labels, including Trumpet, Modern, and Chess, but arguably his most prolific work was done with the Fire and Enjoy labels, where he further cemented his legacy. Though his life was cut short by a heart attack on May 24, 1963, his influence on music is undeniable, with countless musicians citing him as a major inspiration. James has left a rich legacy captured in collections such as "The Complete Fire & Enjoy Sessions," which showcases the full range of his creativity and the depth of his blues mastery. His fiery slide guitar technique has inspired generations of guitarists, and he is remembered as one of the true greats of the blues.

Genres

Blues

Chicago Blues

Delta Blues

Electric Blues

Traditional Blues

Related Artists

B.B. King

Muddy Waters

Howlin' Wolf

T-Bone Walker

Buddy Guy

Albert King

Sonny Boy Williamson II

Robert Johnson

John Lee Hooker

Little Walter

Freddie King

Otis Rush

Latest Release

Every Day I Have the Blues (Final Take)

Elmore James

Single - Released June 22, 2020