J. B. Hutto

J.B. Hutto was a powerhouse of the Chicago blues scene, best known for his raw, energetic slide guitar playing and gritty vocal style. Born in 1926 in South Carolina and raised in Chicago, Hutto picked up the guitar after being inspired by legendary bluesmen like Elmore James. His signature sound—driven by his trademark steel-bodied guitar and searing slide work—made him a standout figure in the blues circuit, particularly with his band the Houserockers.

Throughout his career, Hutto stayed true to a hard-driving, electrified blues style that resonated with both traditionalists and new fans. Albums like Hawk Squat and Slidewinder are prime examples of his fiery live energy and no-frills approach to the blues. Even after taking a break from music in the 1950s, he returned in the '60s with renewed vigor, becoming a staple of the Chicago blues revival. Until his passing in 1983, J.B. Hutto remained a passionate performer who left a lasting impact on the blues world.