In the history of electric blues, few moments are as monumental and musically explosive as the collaboration that brought together Gary Moore, Albert King, and Albert Collins on one stage. Often referenced in viral clips and bootlegs, this meeting of the titans—a true blues summit—is a mandatory piece of viewing and listening for any serious guitar player.
The Setting: An Evening of Blues Royalty
The legendary performance took place in London around 1990, as Gary Moore was celebrating the massive success of his blues watershed album, Still Got the Blues. To truly cement his return to the genre, Moore brought two of his greatest influences—and two of the most influential guitarists in blues history—to share the stage: Albert King, the “King of the Blues,” and Albert Collins, “The Master of the Telecaster” (or “The Iceman”).
The Guitar Conversation: Three Distinct Voices
What makes this collaboration a masterclass in blues guitar is the stark contrast and perfect chemistry between the three players, each representing a unique philosophy of the instrument:
- Albert King: The Soulful Architect King, playing his iconic flipped-over, left-handed Gibson Flying V (“Lucy”), demonstrated his legendary, sparse, yet emotionally devastating style. His powerful, signature string bends—often played behind the nut—are the foundation of his unique tone and phrasing, proving that feeling trumps flash every time.
- Albert Collins: The Icepick Comedian Collins, armed with his revered Fender Telecaster and his unconventional fingerstyle, brought his trademark “Icepick” tone. His solos are sharp, biting, and full of rhythmic surprises, utilizing capos and open tuning to create his distinct sound. His playing is an exercise in tension and release, injecting humor and raw energy into the jam.
- Gary Moore: The Passionate Catalyst Moore, who was at the peak of his blues rock era, provided the fiery link between the traditional blues masters and the coming generation. Known for his sustain and his high-gain, highly expressive technique (often on his famous Les Paul), Moore played with technical precision and overwhelming passion, pushing the energy and often acting as the respectful host to the legends he idolized.
A Legacy for Guitarists
The result, especially in their famous jam on songs like “Caldonia,” is a thrilling exchange where all three artists trade licks, challenge each other, and show immense respect. This collaboration is a vital lesson for guitarists:
- Tone is Identity: Each player’s tone is immediately identifiable—King’s fat bends, Collins’ razor-sharp attack, and Moore’s thick sustain.
- Less Can Be More: King and Collins demonstrate the power of space and selective note choice over speed.
- Respect the Roots: Moore’s success on Still Got the Blues was validated by the presence of his heroes, proving that modern technique can—and should—honor its history.
If you are looking for a singular event that defines the electric blues and showcases the best of the instrument, this is the collaboration you need to seek out.
