Blues music has been a staple of American culture for over a century. From its roots in the deep south, the genre’s influence has spread across the nation. With legendary pioneers like B.B. King and Muddy Waters and modern-day superstars like Gary Clark Jr. and Beth Hart, the blues genre has produced some of America’s most iconic musical artists.
In this article, we will explore the top blues music artists that have captured the hearts of audiences throughout the country and around the world. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of the genre or just discovering the blues for the first time, join us as we celebrate America’s favorite blues music artists.
Impactful.news scraped data from Google search trends and YouGov.com to find which blues artists are the most popular in which states in the U.S. YouGov is a national polling website that surveys real people across the US. This data speaks to regional trends and popularity. So if you’re interested in finding out which blues classic to jam out to next, this is the article for you.
Most Popular in 14 States: Stevie Ray Vaughan
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- Colorado
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Missouri
- New Mexico
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Tennessee
- Texas
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
Stevie Ray Vaughan was an American guitarist, singer and songwriter who played a major role in the blues revival of the 1980s. He's recognizable by his soulful style and unique talent for blending traditional blues with rock and roll. Though he died prematurely in 1990 Vaughan's legacy lives through his music that continues to inspire musicians and listeners to this day.
Most Popular in 5 States: Derek and the Dominos
- Connecticut
- Indiana
- Massachusetts
- New Jersey
- Virginia
Derek and the Dominos was a short-lived but influential rock band formed in the early 1970s and led by guitarist Eric Clapton and featuring members of Delaney & Bonnie and Friends, the band is most widely known for their classic album "Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs". The album's title track, a love song written by Clapton and Jim Gordon, remains one of the most iconic and recognizable tunes in music history.
Most Popular in 4 States: Johnny Winter
- District of Columbia
- Hawaii
- Nevada
- New York
Johnny Winter was an American blues guitarist and artist known for his intricate playing and distinctive gravelly voice. He first gained national notice in the late 1960s with the release of his debut album which showcased his dynamic aptitude toward blues and rock. Winter recorded and toured all throughout his career to earn himself a reputation as one of the most respected and influential blues guitarists of his generation. To this day his influence is felt within the larger music industry and countless fans continue to stream his music even today.
Most Popular in 4 States: Gregg Allman
- Florida
- Georgia
- North Carolina
- South Carolina
Gregg Allman was an American musician and singer-songwriter that co-founded the well-known bluegrass southern rock band, The Allman Brothers. He was recognizable by his rich and soulful voice, as well as his talent for blending rock, blues, and country into a distinctive and one-of-a-kind sound. This unique ability made him stand out amongst musicians. Allman's contributions to the music world have earned him a place among the greatest and most influential artists of all time. To this day his influence continues to be felt throughout the American music industry and the world.
Most Popular in 4 States: Boz Scaggs
- California
- Idaho
- Rhode Island
- Washington
Boz Scaggs is an American singer, songwriter and guitarist recognizable for his smooth and soulful voice. The long-time artist blends rock, blues, and R&B to create a distinct and unique sound in his music. He first gained national attention in the 1970s with the release of hits like "Lowdown," "Lido Shuffle," and "What Can I Say." Scaggs continues to record and tour to this day, and his music remains a beloved and influential part of American popular culture.
Most Popular in 4 States: George Thorogood
- Iowa
- Nebraska
- North Dakota
- Pennsylvania
The American blues-rock guitarist and vocalist George Thorogood is distinguished in the blues community for his high-energy performances and booming gritty voice. In the early 1980s his hits like "Bad to the Bone" and "I Drink Alone" gained him national attention. And in the decades following his music has become a staple within blues circles changing the world of blues music for the ages. Thorogood's signature sound has inspired musicians and audiences all over the world.
Most Popular in 3 States: Janis Joplin
- Maine
- Montana
- New Hampshire
With her powerful and one-in-a-million vocals, Janis Joplin was an American singer-songwriter known for her unique blend of rock, blues, and psychedelia. As the lead vocalist of Big Brother and the Holding Company, hers was a name that went really big really fast. And she eventually went on to become one of the most iconic and influential musicians of the 1960s. Despite her tragic death at just 27 years old her music continues to inspire and influence generations of musicians and fans around the world.
Most Popular in 2 States: The Blues Brothers
- Alaska
- Illinois
The Blues Brothers is an American musical comedy duo consisting of Dan Aykroyd and John Belushi who first rose to fame on the popular television show Saturday Night Live. The idea was simple and it exploded rapidly. The duo's iconic live performances showcased classic blues music imbued with irreverent humor. The Blues Brothers went on to release several albums and even starred in a hit movie of the same name, a publicity move that cemented them among the most hilarious and iconic musical acts of the 20th century.
Most Popular in 2 States: Ray Charles
- Maryland
- Mississippi
Ray Charles was an American singer, pianist, and composer often referred to as "The Genius" for his groundbreaking contributions in the world of music. He was the master of blending elements, pulling from gospel, blues, R&B, and jazz to create a distinctive sound that just stuck with people. His music captivated audiences around the world. Today Charles is regarded as one of the greatest, most influential musicians of all time. And his legacy continues to inspire and influence generations of both musicians and fans to this day.
Most Popular in 2 States: Tom Waits
- Oregon
- Utah
Tom Waits was a musical experimenter known for his distinctive voice and poetic lyrics. He first gained critical acclaim in the 1970s with far-out albums like "Closing Time" and "The Heart of Saturday Night." In the decades since, he's risen to influence in the world of music because of his unique take genre-bending risks. Waits' music often explores the darker aspects of life, and through it he has inspired countless musicians and continues to captivate audiences around the world.
Most Popular in Alabama: Wilson Pickett
Wilson Pickett was an American soul and R&B singer recognizable for his powerful and electric vocal style. With chart-topping hits like "In the Midnight Hour," "Land of 1,000 Dances," and "Mustang Sally," Pickett quickly rose to fame and became one of the leading figures in the soul music movement of the 1960s. His electrifying performances and soulful voice made him a legend of soul music and influenced generations of musicians that followed.
Most Popular in Delaware: Michael McDonald
Michael McDonald is an American singer, songwriter and keyboardist who rose to fame as a member of the famous rock band The Doobie Brothers. Known for his distinctive soulful voice and smooth keyboard skills, McDonald played a significant role in the band's success. He created hits like "What a Fool Believes" and "Takin' It to the Streets." After leaving the band he embarked on a successful solo career, producing a string of hits, including "I Keep Forgettin' (Every Time You're Near)" and "Sweet Freedom." McDonald's soul-infused sound and talent have solidified his status as a highly respected and influential musician popular all over the world.
Most Popular in Michigan: Jack White
Known for his raw and innovative approach to rock music Jack White is an American musician, singer, songwriter and music producer. He was a founding member of not one but three bands: The White Stripes, The Raconteurs and The Dead Weather. White has significantly impacted the modern rock scene throughout his career. The distinctive guitar style, powerful vocals and penchant for mixing various genres all make Jack White an artistic boundary-pusher whose music continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
Most Popular in Louisiana: Fats Domino
Fats Domino was an American pianist, singer and songwriter who played a pivotal role in the development of rock and roll music. Between his warm, boogie-woogie piano style and infectious smiling personality, Domino became one of the most popular and influential artists of the 1950s and early 1960s. Hits like "Blueberry Hill," "Ain't That a Shame," and "I'm Walkin'" solidified his spot in music history, earning him the title of one of the founding fathers of rock and roll.
Most Popular in Minnesota: Bo Diddley
Bo Diddley was an American singer, guitarist and songwriter who played an integral role in the development of rock and roll. With his signature "Bo Diddley beat" characterized by syncopated rhythm and African-influenced percussion, he created a unique and influential sound that left an indelible mark on popular music. Diddley's hits like "Bo Diddley," "Who Do You Love" and "I'm a Man" showcased his groundbreaking guitar playing and charismatic stage presence, making him a true pioneer and legend of rock and roll.
Most Popular in South Dakota: The Fabulous Thunderbirds
The Fabulous Thunderbirds are an American blues rock band formed in the 1970s. Led by vocalist and harmonica player Kim Wilson, they gained popularity for their energetic live performances and their ability to blend traditional blues with a modern rock sound. With hits like "Tuff Enuff" and "Wrap It Up," The Fabulous Thunderbirds achieved commercial success while staying true to their blues roots, solidifying their status as one of the most influential blues rock bands of their time.
Most Popular in Vermont: Bonnie Raitt
Bonnie Raitt is an American singer, songwriter and slide guitarist known for her soulful voice and blues-infused music. With her unique blend of blues, rock, folk and country she has garnered nationwide acclaim and a dedicated fan base. Raitt's hits like "Something to Talk About" and "I Can't Make You Love Me" showcase her emotional depth and musical versatility, solidifying her status as one of the most respected and influential artists in contemporary American music.
