Biography of Johnny "Guitar" Watson

Besides being a wonderful entertainer and showman, Johnny "Guitar" Watson was a marvelous guitarist, fine vocalist and competent pianist. His flashy, shuttering guitar style is one of the most complete and accomplished among Texas blues musicians. His approach was greatly influenced by Aaron "T-Bone" Walker, and he in turn had a strong impact on the style of Jimi Hendrix. Watson's father was a pianist and taught the instrument to his son as a child. Watson moved from Houston to California at 15, and appeared in many local talent shows during the '50s. Watson worked in the bands of Chuck Higgins, Amos Milburn, and Big Jay McNeely in '50s. He recorded as a leader for RPM, Federal, Keen, King, Decca, and his own DJM label among others. He also toured and recorded domestically and internationally with Larry Williams in the '60s. Watson made numerous club and festival appearances in the '50s,'60s and '70s. He's best known to contemporary audiences for his novelty and humorous recordings of the late '70s and early '80s, earning a number five R&B single in 1977 for "A Real Mother For Ya," his biggest hit. ~ Ron Wynn