Blues Insider: Debbie Davies

Debbie Davies (born August 22, 1952) is an American blues guitarist. Davies was born in Los Angeles, California, United States.

A veteran of the road, she began her professional career in the early 1980s, but her life and work were profoundly shaped by her time as a featured guitarist in the legendary Albert Collins’ band, the Icebreakers, from 1988 to 1991. This invaluable apprenticeship exposed her to the core of traditional blues, cementing her reputation as a skilled and authentic player.

Davies’ significant contribution to the blues genre lies in her role as a pioneering female electric guitarist in a traditionally male-dominated field. She defied stereotypes and paved the way for a new generation of women in blues. After leaving Collins’ band, she launched a successful solo career in 1993 with the album Picture This, which featured a guest appearance by her mentor. Since then, she has released numerous acclaimed albums and won several accolades. Her music skillfully blends West Coast blues, Texas thunder, and a touch of Chicago soul, all delivered with an electrifying confidence that has earned her a respected place among the genre’s greats.

She has been the featured guitarist in several female based bands including Maggie Mayall and the Cadillacs (led by John Mayall’s wife), and Fingers Taylor and the Ladyfinger Revue (who opened for Jimmy Buffett during his 1991 tour). Besides her solo work, Davies is best known for her work with Albert Collins as a member of his band, the Icebreakers, from 1988 to 1991.

Over the years she has collaborated with several well-known musicians such as Tommy Shannon and Chris Layton (aka Double Trouble), Coco Montoya, J. Geils and Duke Robillard. She continues to record and tour.

Davies won the 1997 W. C. Handy Award for Best Contemporary Female Artist, and the 2010 Blues Music Award for Best Traditional Female Artist.

Debbie Davies Albums: