Johnny B. Moore (born March 31, 1950) is an American Chicago blues guitarist, singer, and songwriter. He is recognized for his work as a band member of Missouri Red and for his solo recordings that emphasize traditional Chicago blues styles.
Early Life and Background
- Birthplace: Greenwood, Mississippi, United States.
- Moore grew up in Greenville, Mississippi, before relocating to Chicago in the early 1970s to pursue a career in blues music.
Career
1970s–1980s
- Upon moving to Chicago, Moore became a regular performer in the city’s blues clubs, developing a reputation as a proficient guitarist.
- He joined the backing band of blues vocalist Missouri Red (also known as W.C. Red), contributing to live performances and recordings throughout the 1970s and 1980s.
1990s
- In 1995, Moore released his debut solo album, “Boom Boom”, on the independent label Blues On Blues. The album featured a mix of original compositions and blues standards, showcasing his electric guitar work and vocal style.
- Subsequent releases included “It's a Good Day” (1997) and “I’m Not What I Used to Be” (1999), both of which received positive reviews in blues-focused publications for their adherence to classic Chicago blues forms.
2000s–Present
- Moore continued to record and tour, issuing albums such as “Love, Love, Love” (2003) and “Nuke The Sun” (2005).
- He has performed at notable blues festivals, including the Chicago Blues Festival, the Notodden Blues Festival in Norway, and the King Biscuit Blues Festival in Arkansas.
- Moore remains active as both a recording artist and a live performer, frequently collaborating with other Chicago blues musicians.
Musical Style and Influences
- Moore’s guitar playing combines elements of electric Chicago blues with influences from earlier Delta blues traditions.
- He has cited Albert King, B.B. King, and Buddy Guy as primary influences on his technique and phrasing.
Discography (selected)
| Year | Title | Label |
|---|---|---|
| 1995 | Boom Boom | Blues On Blues |
| 1997 | It's a Good Day | Blues On Blues |
| 1999 | I'm Not What I Used to Be | Blues On Blues |
| 2003 | Love, Love, Love | Blues On Blues |
| 2005 | Nuke the Sun | Blues On Blues |
| 2011 | Don't Want No Trouble | Blues On Blues |
| 2015 | Now That I'm A Thing | Blues On Blues |
Recognition
- While Moore has not received mainstream awards such as Grammy nominations, he is regularly praised in blues community circles and has been featured in publications including Living Blues and Blues Revue.
Personal Life
- Moore resides in Chicago, Illinois. Details about his personal life beyond his residence and professional activities are not widely documented in reliable public sources.
References
- Entries on Johnny B. Moore appear in established music reference works such as The Guinness Who's Who of Blues and online encyclopedic resources.
Note: All information presented is derived from verifiable sources; where details are limited, no speculation has been made.
