“Do I placate the minority of folks, or do I play an arena gig with blues songs that nobody else is doing?” Joe Bonamassa’s approach to the blues has triggered some purists – this is his response

Joe Bonamassa.

Joe Bonamassa is one the most celebrated electric guitar players out there, but with great popularity comes great dissent, and not every member of the blues community feels his take on the genre is harmonious with its history.

Some will feel that the blues should be open to interpretation and modernization, while others feel its heritage should be strictly adhered to. Bonamassa was mentored by Danny Gatton as a youngster, and supported B.B. King across numerous shows by the time he turned 18, so he certainly comes from a place of authenticity and respect. But not everyone sees it that way.