Americana, Blues, and Roots music are all firmly planted in the rich soil of American culture. These genres are known for their unique style that draws inspiration from various cultural traditions such as folk, blues, country, and gospel. In this post, we’ll take a look at the history of Americana, Blues, and Roots music and explore the artists who pioneered the genre, as well as contemporary artists, including Keb’ Mo’, who honor the traditions while pushing the creative boundaries.

UPDATE: Keb’ Mo’s first-ever online guitar masterclass series, Americana Roots, is now available for pre-order! Learn more about the 3-edition course series here >

The Roots

The roots of Americana, Blues, and Roots music can be traced back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. During this time, African American musicians, many of whom were former slaves, began to develop a unique style of music that combined traditional African rhythms with elements of gospel, blues, and country music.

One of the most influential figures in the development of blues music was W.C. Handy, often called the “Father of the Blues.” Handy was a composer, musician, and bandleader who played a key role in popularizing the blues in the early 20th century. He was known for his distinctive style of playing the trumpet and is credited with introducing the 12-bar blues structure that is still used today.

Another key figure in the development of blues music was Robert Johnson. Johnson was a Delta blues musician who is widely regarded as one of the most influential guitarists of all time. His style of playing, which involved intricate fingerpicking and slide guitar, influenced countless musicians and helped to establish the blues as a distinct genre.

The Evolution

As the 20th century progressed, the influence of blues and other traditional American music styles began to spread. In the 1960s, artists like Bob Dylan and Joan Baez helped to popularize folk music, while artists like Johnny Cash and Hank Williams Sr. brought country music to a wider audience.

Today, there are countless artists who are carrying on the traditions of Americana, Blues, and Roots music while also pushing the boundaries of the genre. One of the most prominent of these is Keb’ Mo’, a contemporary blues musician who has won five Grammy Awards for his work.

Keb’ Mo’ is known for his unique style of playing, which draws on a wide range of musical influences. His music incorporates blues, country, and folk elements, and his distinctive voice and guitar playing have won him fans worldwide. Keb’ Mo’ is also a skilled songwriter, and many of his songs deal with love, loss, and redemption themes.

Other contemporary artists carrying on Americana, blues, and Roots music traditions include the Alabama Shakes. This band combines traditional blues and soul music with modern rock and roll. The Carolina Chocolate Drops, a group that specializes in traditional African American music styles such as old-time and jug band music, and the Tedeschi Trucks Band, a blues rock band led by husband and wife duo Derek Trucks and Susan Tedeschi.

The Progression

Americana, Blues, and Roots music are a vital part of American culture and have profoundly impacted the development of popular music worldwide. From the early pioneers of the blues like W.C. Handy and Robert Johnson to contemporary artists like Keb’ Mo’, these genres continue to evolve and inspire new generations of musicians. Whether it’s the raw, emotional power of the blues or the timeless appeal of traditional American folk music, Americana, Blues, and Roots music continue to captivate and inspire audiences worldwide.

Keb’ Mo’ Masterclass Series


UPDATE: Keb’ Mo’s first-ever online guitar masterclass series, Americana Roots, is now available for pre-order! Learn more about the 3-edition course series here >