7/21/08: The Blues Guitar of Hubert Sumlin

[Guest Gibson Lifestyle]

Lesson of the Day: The Blues Guitar of Hubert Sumlin

 

07.21.2008

 

 

If there's ever been just one blues guitar player who's had more influence on both his own peers and the multiple generations of players that followed him, it would have to be the legendary Hubert Sumlin.

 

Scores of great guitarists have cited him as a major influence, including the likes of Eric Clapton, Keith Richards, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Jimmy Page, and Jimi Hendrix, and his timeless fingerstyle technique will continue to inspire guitarists for many generations to come.

 

Sumlin earned his place in the annals of blues rock history as the central element in Howlin' Wolf's backing band. And today—even at 76 years old—Sumlin continues to record and tour the world with his own stellar band. Today's lesson is taken from a Homespun DVD titled, The Blues Guitar of Hubert Sumlin, and features the legend giving tips on how to play the great Howlin' Wolf classic "Smokestack Lightnin'."

 

Join Sumlin for a memorable trip as he discusses his technique with guitarist Jimmy Vivino of the Conan O'Brien Band, and jams with a rhthym section that includes Levon Helm (The Band) on drums and David Johansen (New York Dolls) on vocals. Hear him demonstrate his unique and traditional Mississippi-based blues style using a beautiful 1956 Les Paul Goldtop Reissue, then slow down his trademark licks and lead lines for any student to learn and practice. Simply stated, this lesson is a must for any guitar player.

 

Clilck here for today's lesson from the great Hubert Sumlin.

 

And please don't forget to check back tomorrow for yet another super lesson from Gibson Lifestyle!—Gabriel J. Hernandez