<p>Coco Montoya is a celebrated American blues guitarist and vocalist, recognized for his passionate performances and mastery of the blues genre. </p> <p>Born in Santa Monica, California, Montoya began his musical journey as a drummer, and his career took a pivotal turn when he met the legendary <strong>Albert Collins</strong> in the 1970s. </p> <p>Albert Collins became his mentor, teaching him the fundamentals of the blues and urging him to transition to guitar. Coco Montoya&#39;s left-handed, upside-down playing style and emotional phrasing became his signature, blending fiery intensity with heartfelt soul.</p> <p>In the 1980s, Montoya joined <strong>John Mayall’s Bluesbreakers</strong>, a band that had launched the careers of iconic guitarists like <strong>Eric Clapton</strong>, <strong>Peter Green</strong>, and <strong>Mick Taylor</strong>. </p> <p>During his decade with John Mayall, Coco Montoya refined his craft, gaining widespread recognition as a formidable blues guitarist. His work with the Bluesbreakers helped solidify his reputation and set the stage for his solo career.</p> <p>Coco Montoya&#39;s solo debut, <em>Gotta Mind to Travel</em> (1995), marked the beginning of a string of successful albums that showcased his gritty, emotive guitar playing and powerful vocals. Notable releases include <em>Ya Think I&#39;d Know Better</em> (1996), <em>Suspicion</em> (2000), and <em>Hard Truth</em> (2017). His music, rooted in traditional blues but with a contemporary edge, earned critical acclaim and a loyal fanbase.</p> <p>Touring extensively, CocoMontoya is known for his dynamic live performances, where his combination of technical prowess and raw emotion leave audiences spellbound. </p> <p>His contributions to the blues genre have earned him awards and accolades, including the Blues Music Award for Best New Blues Artist in 1996. </p> <p>Montoya remains a vital force in the modern blues scene, with his playing often compared to legends like Albert Collins and <strong>B.B. King</strong>, ensuring his enduring influence on future generations of blues musicians.</p> <p>Coco Montoya joins us this week to share his story. For more information about him, check out his website <a href="https://www.cocomontoyaband.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferer">https://www.cocomontoyaband.com/</a> and don&#39;t forget, if you&#39;d like to request a guest, send me a message through my website https://www.abreathoffreshair.com.au</p>

A Breath of Fresh Air - warm, classic, rock interviews with musical legends from the 60s, 70s, 80s

Sandy Kaye

Blues Guitarist COCO MONTOYA -mentored by Albert Collins and John Mayall

SEP 18, 202452 MIN
A Breath of Fresh Air - warm, classic, rock interviews with musical legends from the 60s, 70s, 80s

Blues Guitarist COCO MONTOYA -mentored by Albert Collins and John Mayall

SEP 18, 202452 MIN

Description

<p>Coco Montoya is a celebrated American blues guitarist and vocalist, recognized for his passionate performances and mastery of the blues genre. </p> <p>Born in Santa Monica, California, Montoya began his musical journey as a drummer, and his career took a pivotal turn when he met the legendary <strong>Albert Collins</strong> in the 1970s. </p> <p>Albert Collins became his mentor, teaching him the fundamentals of the blues and urging him to transition to guitar. Coco Montoya&#39;s left-handed, upside-down playing style and emotional phrasing became his signature, blending fiery intensity with heartfelt soul.</p> <p>In the 1980s, Montoya joined <strong>John Mayall’s Bluesbreakers</strong>, a band that had launched the careers of iconic guitarists like <strong>Eric Clapton</strong>, <strong>Peter Green</strong>, and <strong>Mick Taylor</strong>. </p> <p>During his decade with John Mayall, Coco Montoya refined his craft, gaining widespread recognition as a formidable blues guitarist. His work with the Bluesbreakers helped solidify his reputation and set the stage for his solo career.</p> <p>Coco Montoya&#39;s solo debut, <em>Gotta Mind to Travel</em> (1995), marked the beginning of a string of successful albums that showcased his gritty, emotive guitar playing and powerful vocals. Notable releases include <em>Ya Think I&#39;d Know Better</em> (1996), <em>Suspicion</em> (2000), and <em>Hard Truth</em> (2017). His music, rooted in traditional blues but with a contemporary edge, earned critical acclaim and a loyal fanbase.</p> <p>Touring extensively, CocoMontoya is known for his dynamic live performances, where his combination of technical prowess and raw emotion leave audiences spellbound. </p> <p>His contributions to the blues genre have earned him awards and accolades, including the Blues Music Award for Best New Blues Artist in 1996. </p> <p>Montoya remains a vital force in the modern blues scene, with his playing often compared to legends like Albert Collins and <strong>B.B. King</strong>, ensuring his enduring influence on future generations of blues musicians.</p> <p>Coco Montoya joins us this week to share his story. For more information about him, check out his website <a href="https://www.cocomontoyaband.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferer">https://www.cocomontoyaband.com/</a> and don&#39;t forget, if you&#39;d like to request a guest, send me a message through my website https://www.abreathoffreshair.com.au</p>