What a Guy! – Blues experts pay their respects.

Musician, Baton Rouge

“Buddy Guy is a master showman. When he takes the stage you can tell you’re looking at a man who’s in charge of the performance. He can make that guitar speak and captivates the audience from the word ‘go’ with his witty sense of humor and soulful spirit.”

President/Founder, Windy City Blues Society, Chicago

“Buddy Guy has been there and participated, elbows deep, in the original mix that made Chicago blues. His own life experience can be heard in his music. He has the best blues club in Chicago. Baton Rouge should name a street after him.”

Musician, Palo Alto, California

“Buddy’s always polite, but a real funny dude once the doors close and he’s among people he knows well. What many people may not realize is Buddy can still stick with tradition and play great acoustic blues. When I played with him, he’d always start off traditional, but by the end of the night be rocking out. My favorite song he does is ‘Things I Used to Do’ by Guitar Slim. Even when I was on the road with Buddy and feeling homesick, when Buddy did that song, it really eased my loneliness. And that’s why I still do it today, because my dad [Raful Neal] used to play it, and Buddy played it—so I want to keep it going.”

Concert Promoter/Producer, Baton Rouge

“I can see where Jimi Hendrix would have been inspired by Buddy’s playing. Buddy has such a command of the guitar—a fiery attack. Physically, Buddy is a strong guy, almost statuesque. You have to hand it to him. He’s become one of the iconic blues men of our time. He had that desire and drive. His persona is one that has been recognized and felt by people. It draws appreciation. He has that indefinable quality that is an artist.”

Founder, earlyblues.com; Member, European Blues Association

“Fabulous Chicago electric blues guitar, soulful singing and boundless energy— Buddy Guy is the complete showman. I’ve never seen so much passion and energy. He’s up there with the blues greats.”

Baton Rouge Blues Festival • April 13

Can’t get enough of the blues? The family-friendly Baton Rouge Blues Festival is free and held on April 13 at Galvez Plaza and North Boulevard Town Square downtown. 225’s April issue will preview the event that includes a set by Robert Randolph and the Family Band. batonrougebluesfestival.org