If you thought the first batch of young blues guitarists was impressive, wait until you see this next wave. The blues scene is absolutely stacked with talent right now, and there are even more guitarists out there who are taking the genre to exciting new places. These artists aren’t just playing the blues—they’re living it, breathing it, and pushing it to new heights with every riff and solo. So, buckle up and get ready to meet another 10 young blues guitarists who are dangerously good.

1. Tash Sultana

Let’s kick things off with Tash Sultana, a multi-instrumentalist and guitar virtuoso from Australia who has taken the world by storm. Tash’s style blends blues with rock, reggae, and a touch of psychedelia, creating a sound that’s truly unique. Their live performances are something to behold, as they loop multiple instruments to create rich, layered tracks right on the spot. Tash’s guitar work is soulful, intricate, and full of passion—definitely a name to keep on your radar.

2. Selwyn Birchwood

Selwyn Birchwood is a rising force in the blues scene, carving out his own space with a fresh take on tradition. A Florida native, Birchwood stays true to classic blues while infusing it with a modern edge that feels distinctly his. His slide guitar work stands out, packed with raw emotion and intensity, adding depth to his electrifying performances. Coupled with a commanding voice and magnetic stage presence, Birchwood is a standout talent. It’s rare to find someone who honors the roots of the genre while simultaneously creating something fresh and compelling—a new classic in the making.

3. Joanne Shaw Taylor

Joanne Shaw Taylor, a British blues guitarist discovered by Dave Stewart of the Eurythmics, has been making waves with her raw talent and commanding stage presence. With her gritty vocals and scorching guitar skills, Taylor has cemented her place as a leading force in modern blues. Influenced by legends like Stevie Ray Vaughan and Albert Collins, she’s developed a unique sound that blends classic blues with a rock edge. Her rendition of Janis Joplin’s Summertime is a standout, delivering soulful emotion with a smoother vocal tone and a beautifully rich guitar sound that’s all her own. If you’re after blues with a rock punch, Joanne Shaw Taylor delivers in every way.

4. Marcus Machado

Marcus Machado is a true virtuoso, effortlessly weaving together blues, funk, rock, and jazz in a way that feels both seamless and innovative. With a resume that includes collaborations with some of the biggest names in the industry, his solo work highlights his remarkable versatility and boundless creativity. Machado’s playing is smooth yet soulful, overflowing with groove—ideal for those who crave blues with a modern flair. His track Get By channels a Silk Sonic vibe but adds a gritty, soulful edge to the guitars, injecting a raw but controlled energy that perfectly complements the sumptuous sound, creating something uniquely his own.

5. Grace Potter

Grace Potter is often hailed for her rock roots, but the blues pulse through every note she plays. Her guitar work is raw, gritty, and infused with a soulful intensity that strikes deep. Effortlessly blending blues, rock, and Americana, Potter’s raspy, powerhouse vocals carry echoes of Janis Joplin, yet she carves out a sound that’s entirely her own. Her performances are electric, driven by her evocative guitar playing that transforms her from a singer into a true force of nature on stage. I particularly enjoy her track Low Road, where she weaves in just the right touch of country.

6. Matty T Wall

Matty T Wall, the Australian blues guitarist, has been turning heads on the global blues scene with his explosive playing that merges fiery intensity with a deep, authentic connection to the genre. His album Transpacific Blues Vol. 1 showcases his talent for injecting modern, high-octane energy into traditional blues, resulting in a sound that’s both innovative and rooted in the classics. Wall’s solos are nothing short of spectacular—packed with emotion, precision, and sheer power. His live performance of Broken Hearted Tattoo is a standout, delivering a thrilling journey through shifting dynamics, where raw energy and subtle contrasts create a truly enjoyable rollercoaster.

7. Ina Forsman

While Ina Forsman is primarily recognized as a Finnish blues singer, she occasionally adds guitar to her performances, contributing to her rich, emotive sound. Forsman’s powerful voice and dynamic stage presence have earned her a growing reputation, blending blues, soul, and jazz with a modern pop sensibility. Though her guitar playing takes a back seat, it’s instrumental in shaping her overall sound, reinforcing the deep-rooted soul that defines her music. Forsman brings a fresh perspective to the soul and blues genres while staying faithful to its roots, much like how Amy Winehouse reinvigorated soul in her time. Her track Miss Mistreated hints at her potential. With the right producer, Forsman could push into new creative territory and truly break ground in the genre. She’s got all the right elements to deliver something fresh, and she’s an artist to keep an eye on as she continues to evolve.

8. Dan Patlansky

Dan Patlansky, a South African blues guitarist, has been turning heads with his phenomenal guitar prowess and deeply soulful playing. Drawing heavy inspiration from blues legends, Patlansky injects a modern vitality into his music, making it both timeless and exciting. His album Dear Silence Thieves is essential listening for blues guitar enthusiasts, showcasing his fiery, emotional style that never fails to impress. When I hear Patlansky’s track “Hold On,” I catch echoes of Chris Isaak’s Wicked Game, but with a distinctive twist—a gritty, crunchy tone that brings a classic vibe into the 21st century while remaining completely organic. It’s a refreshing, bold take on a traditional sound.

9. Vanja Sky

Vanja Sky, a Croatian blues guitarist, is quickly establishing herself as a powerhouse in the blues world. Her playing is raw, emotionally charged, and deeply rooted in traditional blues, yet she injects a modern edge that makes her sound distinctly her own. Sky’s album Bad Penny showcases her talent for crafting unforgettable blues-rock tracks that resonate long after they end. With both the chops and the attitude to make a lasting impact, she’s set for big things. Her slide technique on Crossroads of Life stands out, with a gritty yet balanced rhythmic sound that masterfully blends old-school blues with a fresh, contemporary vibe.

10. Jake Kershaw

Last but certainly not least is Jake Kershaw, a young guitarist from Michigan who’s quickly gaining attention for his soulful playing and impressive musical maturity. While his style is firmly grounded in the blues, Kershaw isn’t afraid to push boundaries, experimenting with diverse sounds and techniques. His guitar work is both powerful and precise, with solos that overflow with emotion. I’ll admit, his vocal style isn’t my personal favorite, but his raw energy and skill with the guitar are undeniably noteworthy—and after all, that’s what this blog is about, right? Check out Never Make Your Move Too Soon to hear his guitar magic in action.

Conclusion

And there you have it—another 10 young blues guitarists who are pushing the boundaries of the genre and taking it to new and exciting places. These artists are not just keeping the blues alive; they’re breathing new life into it with their unique sounds and styles. Many of them are also pushing the boundaries of production, crafting powerful, punchy sounds that sometimes include lo-fi elements, giving the blues a fresh, modern feel. Whether you’re a die-hard blues fan or just starting to explore the genre, these guitarists are worth your time. The future of the blues is looking brighter than ever with these talented musicians leading the way.

Bonus: Playlist

Ready to experience these incredible guitarists for yourself? Check out my Spotify playlist, “New Blues II,” and dive into their amazing sound.