This month, we’re shining a spotlight on an unsung hero of blues: Luther Allison. Known for his electrifying performances and soulful intensity, Allison left an indelible mark on the blues scene, despite never achieving the mainstream success he deserved over his four-decade career.
Born in 1939 in Widener, Arkansas, Allison moved to Chicago as a teenager, where he immersed himself in the city’s vibrant blues scene. Influenced by legends like Muddy Waters and Howlin’ Wolf, he developed a fierce, soulful style on both guitar and vocals. By his early 20s, Allison was performing regularly in Chicago’s West
Side clubs, where his raw energy and emotionally charged performances quickly set him apart. His blend of gritty, hardhitting blues with soulful R&B elements became his signature sound.
This story is from the December 2024 edition of Guitar Techniques.
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This story is from the December 2024 edition of Guitar Techniques.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
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