Eric Gales is a modern blues guitarist, some of the best guitarists in the world say Eric is the best guitarist in the world, he is a modern blues rock master, if you haven’t heard of him check this out.
Known for his unique, fiery soulful playing with a left-handed style, Gales has carved a distinctive path in the music world blending funk, blues, jazz and rock in a truly unique way few others have achieved.
Born in Memphis Tennessee on October 29, 1974, Eric grew up surrounded by music, his family were steeped in blues, gospel traditions. Eric started playing guitar at the age of 4 following in the footsteps of his older brothers who were also great guitarists in their own right, Gales was taught to play a right-handed guitar upside down as he was left-handed, a technique that would become a defining trait.
When you think of guitar virtuosos you think of names like Jimi Hendrix, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Eric Clapton, and Eddie Van Halen, But Eric Gales deserves to be right up there. Known for his electrifying performances and innovative techniques, Eric deserves to be in the same conversation as the greats. here is one of my favourites.
Eric Gales journey hasn’t been as easy one, he battled personal addiction and personal struggles that could have easily derailed his career, But instead Gales used his music to overcome these battles using music as an outlet for his healing and personal growth. In recent years his playing has taken on an even greater sense of purpose and passion.
When fellow guitar greats like Joe Bonamassa, Carlos Santana, and Mark Tremonti sing your praises, you know you’re doing something right, Santana once remarked ‘Eric Gales is absolutely incredible, and many other musicians have remarked that Eric is one of the most underrated guitarists of all time. I also watched a video where Richie Kotzen was asked who the best guitarist in the world was and he replied Eric Gales.
Eric burst onto the scene at just 16 when he signed with Elektra records, at such a young age Gales already showed signs of musical maturity drawing comparisons to Jimi Hendrix, his debut album The Eric Gales Band, is an album that showcases his raw talent, blending blues rock and soul in an onslaught of technical prowess.
Here is a song from that album
While critics notice the strong Hendrix influence Gales is no mere imitator, as he has brought a fresh innovative sound to the blues and rock scene.
Gales followed up his debut album with ‘ Picture of a thousand faces’ which delved deeper into his blues roots while continuing to experiment with blues and funk elements, This album revealed more of his artistic development, showcasing a new guitar virtuoso was in the mix. Despite receiving critical acclaim, ‘Picture of a thousand faces’ was overlooked in the mainstream, yet still solidified his spot as a guitar prodigy.
All of Erics subsequent albums have been phenomenal, he has developed his sound and style and has become a big name in the world of modern blues.
Regards
Patrick. M
Eric Gales should be playing with Lenny Kravitz! The two of them would explode on stage together. His left-hand guitar playing is incredible to watch and listen to. He definitely should be up there with the greatest guitarist! 🙏👏👏