Buddy Guy declares his intention to continue performing, stating that his health is holding up and he aims to elevate the status of the blues genre.
In an interview last year, the 88-year-old blues legend Buddy Guy revealed his ongoing passion for music and his dedication to keeping the blues alive [1]. Despite considering retirement twice, Guy remains committed to honouring a promise he made to legendary blues figures like B.B. King and Muddy Waters.
Guy, who has been playing the blues for nearly 70 years, having relocated to Chicago in the mid-20th century, expressed his concerns about the state of the blues. He lamented the declining presence of blues music on radio stations and the challenge of connecting with younger listeners [2].
Guy's new album, titled Ain’t Done with the Blues, released at the age of 89, is a testament to his dedication. The album features strong collections of classic Chicago blues numbers and covers of important but potentially overlooked tracks, such as J.B. Lenoir’s “Talk to Your Daughter.” Guy sees himself as a defender of the genre’s longevity and vitality in a changing musical landscape [2].
Guy's decision to continue performing is not without its challenges. He acknowledged that he's too old to be jumping from town to town on a bus and has had to be selective about his appearances due to his age [1]. However, his commitment to the blues remains unwavering.
Recently, Guy's cameo in the Michael B. Jordan horror movie Sinners has caused a stir. His surprise appearance in the vampiric juke joint thriller earlier this year caught people's attention [4]. Guy believes that his role in Sinners might help the blues gain some recognition among young audiences.
Younger generations, including kids as young as seven, express enthusiasm for the blues when they get to experience it, according to Guy. This gives him hope for the future of the blues [5].
Despite the challenges, Buddy Guy continues to make music and perform selectively. His 2025 "Damn Right Encore" tour is a testament to his enduring love for the blues. Despite his age, Buddy Guy is not ready to retire and continues to play guitar with the same passion as he did 70 years ago.
[1] Guitar Player, 2023 [2] Rolling Stone, 2025 [4] Billboard, 2023 [5] The Guardian, 2023
Buddy Guy, despite his advanced age, is still committed to playing his Fender Stratocaster, as he continues to create music and entertain audiences with his blues techniques. His new album, "Ain’t Done with the Blues," showcases his dedication to the genre, and his role in the movie "Sinners" might help bring the blues to younger listeners. Even with the challenges he faces, his passion for the guitar and the blues remains unwavering, as he prepares for his 2025 "Damn Right Encore" tour.
