When no less of a guitar god than Eric Clapton claims that you’re the best living guitar player, your legend becomes truth and your truth becomes legend. While that sentiment has become something of blues music lore, Clapton continued his praise of the Lettsworth, La.-born musician, George “Buddy” Guy, when “Slowhand” inducted him into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2005. Said Clapton, “He was for me what Elvis was probably like for other people.”
Guy’s flamboyant style wasn’t just an influence on Clapton, but other axe-strumming superstars as well, including Jimi Hendrix, Jeff Beck and Jimmy Page. While his style is often classified as Chicago blues, Guy is known for bringing in elements far beyond just the Southside neighborhood. He can be loose and wild and play with the rambunctiousness that epitomizes those Louisiana parties he grew up experiencing.
Of course, while Guy, 82, lets his guitar do most of his talking, he completes his bluesy persona with a voice that resonates pain, experience, and a life full of adventures and disappointments. The howls he achieves on songs like “All Your Love” must be heard live to be truly appreciated. Go see Buddy in concert. All your guitar heroes want you to.
House of Blues at Mandalay Bay, 7:30 p.m. Aug. 3, starting at $49.50 plus tax and fee, 18+. 702.632.7600
