Kelly Joe Phelps
Kelly Joe Phelps' soulful singing and startling guitar technique have helped create an ever-growing fan base and rave reviews in publications as diverse as Billboard, Blues Wire, Downbeat and People. After cutting three ground-breaking records of guitar-and-voice blues that earned him a reputation as one of the best living slide guitarists (and won high praise from Steve Earle, Bill Frisell and U2's The Edge, among many others), Kelly Joe put aside his slide in favor of straight finger-picking for his most recent Rykodisc CD, "Sky Like A Broken Clock."
This was also his first recording in a band setting, recorded with bassist Larry Taylor (TomWaits), and drummer Billy Conway (Morphine). Kelly Joe has taught guitar, banjo and mandolin both privately and at college level, and is a patient and articulate instructor, passing along invaluable information based on his years of experience.
Sadly, Kelly Joe passed away on May 31, 2022, at the age of 62.
