Johnny "Guitar" Watson was an influential American blues, soul, and funk musician, renowned for his virtuosic guitar playing and distinctive vocal style. Born on February 3, 1935, in Houston, Texas, Watson's career spanned several decades, during which he evolved from a pioneering blues guitarist in the 1950s to a major figure in the funk scene in the 1970s and 1980s. His innovative use of electronic effects on the guitar made him a forerunner in the development of funk and helped transform the sound of black popular music.

Watson's breakthrough hit came in 1954 with "Space Guitar," which showcased his dazzling guitar effects and techniques. However, it was in the 1970s that he truly found his niche, releasing classics such as "A Real Mother For Ya" and becoming known for his flamboyant stage presence and sharp dress sense. Albums like "Ain't That a Bitch" and "Funk Beyond the Call of Duty" solidified his status as a funk legend. His music was characterized by witty lyrics, funky grooves, and his signature fast-fingering guitar licks. Watson continued to perform and record until his untimely death on May 17, 1996, during a performance in Yokohama, Japan. Today, Johnny "Guitar" Watson is remembered as a pioneering and versatile musician whose work laid the groundwork for the future of both the funk genre and modern electric guitar playing.

Genres

Blues

Related Artists

Jimi Hendrix

B.B. King

Buddy Guy

Albert King

Eric Clapton

Bootsy Collins

Muddy Waters

Isaac Hayes

Freddie King

Earth, Wind & Fire

Prince

Chuck Berry

Latest Release

A Real Mother For Ya (Ben Liebrand Disco, Jackin's, Essential Mix)

Johnny "Guitar" Watson

Ep - 4 Tracks - Released October 9, 2020