Luther "Guitar Junior" Johnson is a venerable figure in the blues world, renowned for his searing guitar work and soulful vocals. Born in Itta Bena, Mississippi in 1939, he relocated to Chicago in the 1950s, which was a melting pot for the evolving blues scene at the time. Cutting his teeth in the clubs of Chicago's West Side, Luther quickly earned a spot in the legendary Muddy Waters band, playing as a rhythm guitarist from 1972 to 1980. This pivotal experience not only honed his skills but also heightened his stage presence, cementing him as a formidable force in the blues community.

After departing from Muddy Waters' band, Luther "Guitar Junior" Johnson embarked on a solo career, carving out his distinct sound that bridges traditional and contemporary blues. His gritty, expressive playing style and authentic storytelling have earned him a Grammy Award in 1985 as part of the compilation album "Blues Explosion," recorded live at the Montreux Jazz Festival. Over the years, he has released a slew of albums capturing the essence of the blues, with his most recent releases including "Talkin' About Soul" (2001) and "Got To Find A Way" (1998). These works, alongside titles like "Doin' the Sugar Too" (1994), "Slammin' On The West Side" (1996), and "Country Sugar Papa" (2000), showcase his evolution as an artist who continuously pays homage to the blues tradition while injecting his own life experience and artistry. His 1998 album "It's Good To Me" revealed his ongoing vitality and commitment to the genre. Moreover, the reissue of "Luther's Blues 1976 (Blues Reference)" demonstrates the timeless quality of his music, highlighting a career that has influenced countless guitarists and left an indelible mark on the blues landscape.

Genres

Blues

Boogie-woogie

Electric Blues

Latest Release

Talkin' About Soul

Luther "Guitar Junior" Johnson

Album - 13 Tracks - Released February 27, 2001