Johnny Shines (April 26, 1915 – April 20, 1992) was an American blues singer and guitarist. Born in Frayser, Tennessee, Shines was a prominent figure in the world of blues, known for his close association with the legendary Robert Johnson. His journey in music started at a young age: after running away from home at the age of 16, he traveled with Johnson, picking up his intense guitar style and emotive vocal delivery. Shines' style was rooted in the Delta blues tradition, but he also ventured into Chicago blues with his move to that city in the 1940s.

Over the years, Johnny Shines' career ebbed and flowed with the changing tides of the music industry and public interest. He recorded for labels like J.O.B., Chess, and Vanguard. While some of his earliest recordings from the 1950s such as the tracks on "Evening Shuffle - The Complete J.O.B. Recordings 1952-1953," didn't gain substantial recognition at the time, they would later be seen as significant contributions to the blues genre. In the late 1960s and 1970s, the revival of interest in traditional blues brought Shines back into the spotlight, leading to albums like "Too Wet to Plow" and live performances captured in "The Blues Came Falling Down (Live 1973)." Shines’ artistry is celebrated for capturing the essence of blues experience, enshrined in projects like "Heritage Of The Blues: Skull & Crossbones Blues" and his international impact documented in "Johnny Shines "Live" In Europe 1975." Despite his passing in 1992, his legacy continues to influence blues musicians and aficionados through the raw emotion and authenticity he poured into his music.

Genres

Chicago Blues

Delta Blues

Memphis Blues

Traditional Blues

Related Artists

Howlin' Wolf

Muddy Waters

Son House

Elmore James

Lightnin' Hopkins

Robert Johnson

Willie Dixon

B.B. King

Big Bill Broonzy

John Lee Hooker

Albert King

Freddie King

Latest Release

Collected Rambles

Johnny Shines

Album - 10 Tracks - Released September 27, 2024