John Lee's mighty footprints
John Lee is one of the few real cornerstones in modern music. He is one of those musicians who has a truly original sound, and therefore he has influenced countless other artists and groups.
This page is dedicated to collecting John Lee's footprints, i.e. artists who are admittedly or obviously influenced by John Lee Hooker. And considering that many of these artists themselves have had quite an impression on other artists, that's saying a lot.
ZZ Top. Billy Gibbons often quotes "Boogie Chillun" (check out "Long Distance Boogie" on Fandango!), and his guitar playing is also influenced by John Lee.
Canned Heat. Well, obviously, they have played with him lots of times.
Nick Cave. Nick considers John Lee one of his most important influences, and his music is heavily influenced by John Lee. He has also recorded two of his songs, "Tupelo" and "I'm Gonna Kill That Woman".
Status Quo. Whether they know it or not, that I-IIIb-IV guitar riff boogie is pure John Lee.
Cowboy Junkies. They have recorded several of his songs (for instance "Forgive Me" and "I'll Never Get Out of these Blues Alive").
Blues Brothers. The look, if nothing else.
George Thorogood. Has recorded a few John Lee tracks (for instance a killer 9-minute version of "House Rent Boogie/One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer"), and has also played with him.
The Animals, the Yardbirds and countless other 60s bluesrockers who recorded "Boom Boom" and "Dimples". Of course, the Animals played a part in Jimi Hendrix' success, and the Yardbirds were the starting point for Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck and Led Zeppelin.
Not to mention thousands of blues and blues rock bands who have played his songs and borrowed his guitar riffs.
Can you think of anyone else who should be mentioned here? Mail me!
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