Elmore James

1
  • Year:
    1992
  • Inducted by:
    Robbie Robertson (The Band)
  • Category:
    Early Influences
Elmore James

Introduction

Everyone who puts a slide on their guitar owes a debt to Elmore James.

Raw, stimulating electric—his was the lick that basically defines blues rock.

Hall of Fame Essay

1992

Tony Glover

Some blues musicians carve out their own stylistic trademarks: Bo Diddley has his syncopated rhythm riff, Howling Wolf his full-bodied falsetto swoop, Jimmy Reed his repetitive walking bass lines. 

Elmore James’ signature was his thundering full-octave slide guitar opening. 

Though borrowed from fellow Mississippi bluesman Robert Johnson, that “Dust My Broom” riff laid the foundation for an eleven-year recording career, with nearly 80 titles released on some seven different labels.

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony Program Cover 1992
1 of 3