Lightnin' Hopkins Billy Gibbons: “We went to the second change, but Lightnin’ was still in the first... Our bassist said, ‘Lightnin’, that’s where the second change is supposed to be, isn’t it?' Lightnin’ said, ‘Lightnin’ change when Lightnin’ want to change!’” ZZ Top's main man and Johnny Winter recount their time backing Lightnin’ Hopkins, where they quickly learned that to accompany the blues legend meant doing things his way Fatten Your Chops With Double-Stops in the Style of Blues Legends Like B.B. King, Lightnin' Hopkins and Robert Johnson These essential phrases will help you speak the language of blues guitar Watch Lightnin’ Hopkins Play “the Best Blues Performance Ever” Remembering the influential Texas bluesman born 110 years ago today with this archive gem featuring quotes from Johnny Winter, Billy Gibbons and more. Get The Pick NewsletterAll the latest guitar news, interviews, lessons, reviews, deals and more, direct to your inbox!Contact me with news and offers from other Future brandsReceive email from us on behalf of our trusted partners or sponsors MOST READ1“A bombshell guitar that can front any band”: Martin and Reverb unite for an exclusive non-cutaway Grand Performance acoustic 2“I was inspired by one of my favorite players, Mr. Paul Gilbert”: Matteo Mancuso pays homage to one of his heroes with new track, Paul Position 3“A vintage-sounding, modern-featured roaring head inspired by the legendary 1967/1968 Plexi Super Lead 100”: Joe Satriani’s custom Eddie Van Halen-flavored 3rd Power amp is now available as a plugin – with real amps on the way 4“All these pieces of wood gradually become in harmony with each other over years of playing”: David Gilmour explains his preference for vintage guitars, and demos his 1945 Martin D-185“Thank you for rescuing me from oblivion and giving me the courage and enthusiasm to express myself without fear or limit”: Tributes pour in for “champion of the blues” John Mayall