If Muddy Waters were an actual god — instead of just a blues god — he would've turned 101 years old today, April 4, 2014.
Instead, the legendary bluesman, who his mother knew as McKinley Morganfield, died April 30, 1983, in Westmont, Illinois.
Waters, the father of modern Chicago blues, was a major inspiration to several generations of blues artists — including most of the key players in the British blues explosion of the Sixties.
He also helped define blues for the latter part of the 21st century — an impact felt in a host of other genres including rock, R&B, folk and country.
We’ve decided to celebrate his birthday by gathering up what we feel are 10 of the best covers of his songs by a host of artists. You'll notice Eric Clapton's guitar work appears twice in the list. Hey, I like Clapton.
Enjoy! And if you'd like to recommend another song, please do! I don't mind making this a "Top 11" list! UPDATE: Johnny Winter's version of "Rock Me Baby" has grabbed the Number 11 spot. Thanks for reading!
Led Zeppelin, "You Shook Me"
The Allman Brothers Band, "Trouble No More"
Humble Pie, “Rollin’ Stone”
New York Dolls, “Hoochie Coochie Man”
The Yardbirds, "Good Morning Little School Girl"
The Animals, "Louisiana Blues"
The Black Crowes, "Champagne and Reefer"
The Rolling Stones, "I Just Want to Make Love to You"
Eric Clapton, "Blow Wind Blow"
The Doors, "Close to You"
Johnny Winter, "Rock Me Baby"
Damian Fanelli is the online managing editor at Guitar World. He writes and edits things.
