Johnny Copeland

Even though Louisiana-born Johnny Copeland began recording singles in the '50s and was among the most influential blues guitarists of his generation, his career as a solo recording artist didn't really hit full steam until the '80s. Copeland -- whose jump blues-influenced singing and T-Bone Walker-like erudite guitar work set him apart from the pack -- traveled a circuitous route moving from label to label and worked as a true journeyman from the '50s through the '70s. Once his legend (artists like Stevie Ray Vaughan owe much to the man) started to catch up with him, bigger label deals and lucrative festival appearances helped him achieve the success he deserved. Copeland died in New York City in 1997.