From Guitar World · · 1m 40s
Carvin Jones, King of Strings, dies at 60
The Texas blues guitarist who Eric Clapton called the next big thing has passed away.
In brief
The Texas blues guitarist who Eric Clapton called the next big thing has passed away. Carvin Jones built a legendary blues career through relentless touring and genuine connection with audiences across 37 countries, earning recognition from peers like Eric Clapton despite never needing a single breakthrough hit…
Blues legend Carvin Jones dies at 60
The Texas-born, Phoenix-based guitarist known as the King of Strings passed away on September 20, 2026. His family announced the news via social media.
From B.B. King records to the stage
Born in Lufkin, Texas, Jones discovered blues through his grandfather's B.B. King records and started playing guitar at seven. He was largely self-taught before moving to Arizona at 19.
Played with legends across the globe
Jones toured 37 countries across three continents, sharing stages with B.B. King, Santana, Jeff Beck, Albert King, and Joe Cocker. His sound blended blues, gospel, R&B, and rock rooted in East Texas.
Eric Clapton's endorsement and recognition
Clapton once called Jones a young cat from Phoenix who he thought was the next up-and-coming blues player. Guitarist magazine named him one of the top 50 blues guitarists of all time in 2001.
“a young cat out of Phoenix who I think is the next up-and-coming blues player”
Built a career on relentless touring
Jones released more than a dozen albums and built his reputation by returning to the stage night after night, winning over audiences rather than relying on a single breakthrough record.
Generosity shaped his life offstage
Jones loved playing in the crowd during shows and sponsored youth basketball teams. During the pandemic, he created Carvin Cares to deliver groceries to elderly residents throughout Phoenix.
The headline
Carvin Jones built a legendary blues career through relentless touring and genuine connection with audiences across 37 countries, earning recognition from peers like Eric Clapton despite never needing a single breakthrough hit.
