Sam “Lightnin'” Hopkins was one of the most influential blues guitarists to come out of the state of Texas. A country-styled bluesman that often performed solo, Hopkins’ unique finger-picked guitar style would alternate single-note leads with rhythm and bass guitar, adding percussive elements by slapping or tapping his guitar body. A prolific songwriter whose lyrics chronicled life in the South, romantic turmoil, and bawdy sexual themes, Hopkins’ vocals mixed a soulful voice with a talking blues style.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
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Hopkins’ extensive body of recorded work and dynamic live performances would influence a generation of guitarists to follow, from bluesmen like Buddy Guy and Albert Collins to blues-rockers like Jimi Hendrix, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and Jimmie Vaughan of the Fabulous Thunderbirds. Hopkins was also a major influence on country-folk singer\/songwriter Townes Van Zandt, and would land at #71 on Rolling Stone<\/em> magazine’s list of the “100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time.”<\/p>\nIn this first clip, one of his most famous tunes, notice his solid right hand thumb and how he keeps the time going constantly through the song:<\/p>\n