“You can only imagine the effect this had on the young Keith Richards and Eric Clapton”: 9 must-hear albums that fueled the British blues guitar boom

Born Under a Bad Sign (1967) - Albert King

A cornerstone of electric blues, this album is an essential listen for any fan of the genre. King's raw and emotive playing style is on full display, and his songwriting is equally impressive.

Key tracks: "Born Under a Bad Sign," "Crosscut Saw," "The Hunter"

Five Long Years (1963) - Howlin' Wolf

One of the most influential blues albums of all time, this record helped to shape the sound of British rock bands like The Rolling Stones and Led Zeppelin. Wolf's powerful vocals and Muddy Waters-inspired guitar playing are simply unforgettable.

Key tracks: "Killing Floor," "Back Door Man," "Smokestack Lightning"

The Paul Butterfield Blues Band (1965)

This self-titled debut album from the Paul Butterfield Blues Band was a revelation upon its release. The band's fiery blend of blues, rock, and soul helped to bridge the gap between the two genres.

Key tracks: "Born in Chicago," "Shake Your Money Maker," "Mystery Train"

Blues Breakers with Eric Clapton (1966) - John Mayall & the Bluesbreakers

This album marked the arrival of Eric Clapton as one of the world's leading guitarists. His playing is simply stunning throughout, and Mayall's songwriting provides the perfect backdrop for his talents.

Key tracks: "All Your Love," "Hideaway," "Have You Heard"

A Hard Road (1967) - Otis Spann

A master of the Chicago blues style, Otis Spann's playing is both subtle and powerful. This album is a collection of some of his finest work, and it's an essential listen for any fan of the genre.

Key tracks: "It's Raining," "My Babe," "Walkin' the Back Streets"

Electric Mud (1968) - Muddy Waters

Muddy Waters was one of the most important figures in the history of blues music, and this album is a testament to his enduring legacy. His guitar playing is as raw and powerful as ever, and his songwriting is as sharp as ever.

Key tracks: "Mannish Boy," "I'm a King Bee," "Hoochie Coochie Man"

Beano (1966) - Alexis Korner's Blues Incorporated

This album is a great introduction to the British blues scene of the 1960s. It features performances from some of the era's biggest stars, including Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, and Brian Jones.

Key tracks: "Rollin' Stone," "Dust My Broom," "I Can't Quit You Baby"

Fresh Cream (1966) - Cream

Cream were one of the most influential bands of the 1960s, and this album is a perfect example of why. The trio's blend of blues, rock, and psychedelia was groundbreaking, and it helped to shape the sound of rock music for years to come.

Key tracks: "Sunshine of Your Love," "White Room," "I Feel Free"

John Mayall's Bluesbreakers with Eric Clapton (1966)

This is the album that introduced Eric Clapton to the world, and it remains one of his finest works. His guitar playing is simply stunning, and the band's backing is equally impressive.

Key tracks: "All Your Love," "Hideaway," "Tears in Heaven"