Bernard Allison is an acclaimed American blues guitarist and singer, born on November 26, 1965, in Chicago, Illinois. He follows in the footsteps of his father, the legendary Chicago blues musician Luther Allison, and has carved out his unique identity in the blues world.
Growing up, Bernard was immersed in the blues culture, moving between Illinois and Florida. During his childhood in the early 1970s, he frequently accompanied his father to blues festivals, where he rubbed shoulders with blues icons like Muddy Waters, Hound Dog Taylor, and Albert King. It was in Florida, at a young age, that Bernard taught himself to play the guitar.
He showcased his guitar skills to his father at just 12 years old, which led to Luther buying him a Stratocaster. However, his father was firm that education came first, allowing Bernard to take the stage only at age 18 during the 1983 Chicago Blues Festival.
Soon after graduating high school, Bernard joined Koko Taylor's touring band, an experience he values deeply as formative in honing his craft. He credits both Koko Taylor and her husband Pops with shaping his skills. He later went on to be mentored by blues legends Johnny Winter and Stevie Ray Vaughan.
In 1989, Bernard's career took a significant leap when he became the bandleader for his father's European tour and released his debut album, The Next Generation, in Paris.
During the early 1990s, Bernard released several albums in Europe, culminating in his U.S. debut with the critically acclaimed Keepin' the Blues Alive in 1997. His body of work includes over 20 albums, notable among them:
His latest work, Highs & Lows, written during the pandemic, reflects life's varied experiences and emotions.
Bernard Allison's musical style is a blend of traditional and contemporary blues, incorporating electric and modern blues, Chicago and Texas styles, R&B, and roots rock. Known for his intricate rhythms and improvisation, Bernard is also celebrated for his high-energy live performances, playing approximately 250 shows annually worldwide.
While honoring his father's legacy, Bernard is determined to forge his path in the blues world. He emphasizes that while he can carry forward his father's heritage, he can only be himself. Beyond music, Bernard engages in promoting musical equipment and sells speciality merchandise and vinyl records.
Bernard Allison's prolific career and significant contributions to the blues genre ensure his place among the greats, creating a dynamic legacy of his own.
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