10 Best Blue Records Every Collection Needs

The procedure that has been used to put together this comprehensive list of the 10 best blues records every collection needs was passion either in instrumentation, in vocals, or both. By its absolute nature, blues music should be soulful, heartfelt, and passionate.

Many artists have been commercially successful after playing homogenized forms of blue music. However, these artists lack the amazing talent that the best blues performers rely on to compose great hit records. Each record on this list was the work of a great artist who understood the art of blues music.

Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble – Texas Flood

The top spot belongs to the “Texas Flood” a 1983 record by Stevie Ray Vaughan. That was the debut record released by the renowned guitar master and his legendary band, Double Trouble.

From Stevie’s original work like “Rude Mood” and “Pride and Joy” to compulsive covers like “Texas Flood” every single on this record is a classic. Not all artists can achieve that.

Albert King – Born Under a Bad Sign (BEST BLUES RECORDS)

“Born Under a Bad Sign” was Albert King’s second record. The record was applauded for the role it played in the reinvigoration of the blues genre back in the 1960s. The track “Born Under a Bad Sign” made it to #49 on the Billboard chart. The track has been covered multiple times, and many people think of it as a staple of the blues. This record is a must-have album for blues lovers and those wishing to trace the roots of modern blues artists who were inspired by King’s work.

B.B. King – Live at the Regal (BEST BLUES RECORDS - 1965)

Released by the King of the blues, “Live at the Regal” was a masterpiece. B.B King was a revolutionary in playing the guitar and will go down the history books as one of the greatest musicians. King’s live record has been ranked third in this list.

Recorded in 1964, the record is considered to be one of the most influential records in the blues genre. King sets the bar too high back in the 1960s, making it very difficult for any other artist to do anything close to that.

Robbert Johnson – King of the Delta Blues Singers (1961)

Featuring a collection of singles recorded in the late 1930s, “King of the Delta Blue Singers” is a great record. Its acoustics makes all guitar players want to emulate Robert Johnson’s work. With the songs featured on this record being so old, there is no heavy mixing or production, just raw passion, brilliant performance, and pure songwriting.

Howlin’ Wolf – Moanin’ in the Moonlight (1959)

This list of the 10 best blue records every collection needs would not make sense without “Moanin’ in the Moonlight,” which was Wolf’s debut album. Released in 1959, the record features singles recorded way back in 1951. It is very crucial in every blues enthusiast’s playlist.

B.B. King and Eric Clapton – Riding with the King (2000)

“Riding with the King” is a mesmerizing combination of guitar legends, B.B. King and Eric Clapton. It cannot get better than having a collaboration of an original electric bluesman working together with the pioneer of the British blues-rock.

John Lee Hooker and Canned Heat – Hooker ‘n Heat (1971)

A stunning combination in the blues genre, Canned Heat and John Lee Hooker released their collaborative record in 1971. The record features 17 tracks and is a little over 80 minutes long. It also marks Canned Heat’s final album with Alan Wilson, who died only a few months after the recording of the song.

Eric Clapton – From the Cradle (BEST BLUES RECORDS)

That was Clapton’s 12th solo record. The album features fascinating covers of perfectly composed blues classics, created in Clapton’s unique style that he was known for.

Buddy Guy – Sweet Tea (BEST BLUES RECORDS)

While “I Got The Blues” and “Damn Right” were great records. “Sweet Tea” released in 2001 showcased Buddy Guy’s finest works.

Buddy Guy: Damn Right, I’ve Got the Blues (BEST BLUES RECORDS)

First and foremost, if you do not have this record in any format, stop whatever you are doing right now and buy it now! Listening to this record feels like Buddy wanted to prove something and directed all his emotion and tremendous power to this record. The track “Damn Right, I’ve Got the Blues” is filled with emotional intensity.