Roy Buchanan

Roy Buchanan, a highly skilled and influential guitarist in the blues rock genre, was born in Ozark, AR, in 1939. His use of harmonics and lyrical leads inspired guitar legends like Jeff Beck, Robbie Robertson, and Billy Gibbons. Buchanan's musical journey began when he picked up the guitar at age seven, eventually mastering the Fender Telecaster. By the 1960s, he had become a sought-after session guitarist and formed his own band, the Snakestretchers, in Washington, D.C. Despite struggling with the music industry's pressures, Buchanan continued to release acclaimed albums, but tragically took his own life in 1988, leaving behind a legacy as one of the greatest blues-rock guitarists of all time.

After receiving recognition from notable musicians such as John Lennon and Eric Clapton, Buchanan's exceptional talent was captured in a 1971 documentary titled The Best Unknown Guitarist in the World. He signed with Polydor Records, releasing iconic albums like his self-titled debut and Live Stock in the 1970s. Buchanan faced challenges in the 1980s due to industry pressures but made a comeback with albums like When a Guitar Plays the Blues and Dancing on the Edge. His untimely death in 1988 solidified his status as a legendary guitarist, with posthumous releases honoring his lasting impact on the blues rock genre.