John Campbell

American blues guitarist and singer from Louisiana. Known for raw slide guitar and a deep, dark voice. Recorded One Believer (1991) and Howlin Mercy (1993) for Elektra; died June 13, 1993 during a European tour.

Youth hot-rod accident with severe injuries (lost an eye, collapsed lung, many stitches); early recordings include Street Suite (c.1975) and a 1979 acoustic demo later issued as Tyler, Texas Session (released 2000). Worked with Ronnie Earl on early self-produced album; sold a National guitar that once belonged to Lightning Hopkins. Gained wider attention in late 1980s–early 1990s and released One Believer and Howlin Mercy (Elektra).

DeBaser reviews present John Campbell as a rooted American bluesman: raw slide guitar, a deep voice, and tragic biography. Key albums frequently mentioned are One Believer and Howlin Mercy (Elektra). Reviews recount a youth accident, years of wandering, modest early recordings, later recognition, and his death on June 13, 1993.

For:Fans of traditional and raw blues, slide-guitar enthusiasts, listeners of veteran Delta-influenced singers