John Fahey, born on February 28, 1939, was an American fingerstyle guitarist and composer known for his groundbreaking work in the field of American primitive guitar. He is often seen as having laid the foundation for the solo acoustic guitar as a contemporary concert instrument. Fahey combined a wide array of musical influences, including Delta blues, Appalachian music, and classical composition, crafting a unique and highly personal style of instrumental guitar music.

Throughout his career, from the late 1950s until his death on February 22, 2001, Fahey released a vast number of albums that challenged and expanded the boundaries of acoustic guitar music. His early works, such as those captured in "Your Past Comes Back To Haunt You: The Fonotone Years [1958-1965]," reveal the raw talent and exploration that would characterize his extensive discography. His Christmas albums, like "Christmas Guitar Soli With John Fahey," display his ability to re-imagine traditional melodies through complex fingerpicking. Albums such as "The Dance Of Death & Other Plantation Favorites" and "Death Chants, Breakdowns And Military Waltzes," showcase his fascination with American history and roots music. Fahey's influence can be felt throughout the music world, reflected in the work of later acoustic guitar innovators and in the enduring respect he commands among musicians and music aficionados alike.

Genres

American Folk Revival

American Primitive

Drone Folk

Fingerstyle

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Latest Release

John Fahey Sessions (Live at the BBC October, 1987)

John Fahey

Album - 15 Tracks - Released April 5, 2024