When it comes to blues guitarists, few have been as versatile, enigmatic, and endlessly entertaining as Snooks Eaglin. Known as the “Human Jukebox,” Eaglin’s extraordinary ability to play an almost limitless repertoire of songs—spanning blues, R&B, rock ‘n’ roll, country, and even jazz—set him apart as one of the most unique musicians of his time and today we are paying a small tribute to the music of the human jukebox Snooks Eaglin with a short article and 3 great videos to introduce you to the music of Eaglin So let’s get started but first the Cover photo credit “SnooksEaglin2006” by Masahiro Sumori is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 so thanks Masahiro.
Born Fird Eaglin Jr. in New Orleans in 1936, Snooks lost his sight at a young age but found his calling in music. His virtuosity on the guitar was entirely self-taught, and his style blended intricate fingerpicking with rhythmic strumming that mirrored the rich musical culture of New Orleans.
Rise of the The Human Jukebox
Snooks Eaglin earned his nickname for his uncanny ability to play nearly any song on request. His performances were often spontaneous, with no setlist, relying instead on audience suggestions. Whether it was an old blues standard, a pop hit, or a traditional New Orleans tune, Snooks could play it all—and put his own soulful twist on it.
His guitar playing style was hard to categorize but we are putting it into blues greats as it was mostly a bluesy style, but it had a reflection of the melting pot of New Orleans music. While rooted in the blues, his playing often featured elements of funk, R&B, and even Latin rhythms. Eaglin’s voice, both warm and expressive, complemented his innovative guitar work perfectly.
Career Highlights
Snooks began his recording career in the 1950s with folklorist Harry Oster, focusing on acoustic blues. By the 1960s, he had transitioned to electric guitar and began recording with prominent New Orleans artists like Allen Toussaint. His albums, such as “Teasin’ You” and “Out of Nowhere,” showcase his eclectic style and remain essential listening for blues fans.
Despite his immense talent, Snooks remained largely underrated outside New Orleans. However, for those lucky enough to see him live or dive into his recordings, his impact is undeniable.
Why The Human Jukebox Guitarist Snooks Eaglin Matters
Snooks Eaglin’s genius lay not just in his technical skill but in his ability to connect with his audience on a deeply emotional level. His music is a celebration of New Orleans culture and the universal language of the blues. For guitarists, his work serves as a reminder that technical proficiency is most powerful when paired with personality and soul.
This featured album from snooks seems to capture all the styles of Snooks Out of Nowhere was relaeased in 1989 and you can even hear all kings of funk, Jazz, Blues and even Flamenco classical guitar style in track like Kiss of Fire and the rest of the Album.
If you haven’t yet explored Snooks Eaglin’s music, now is the perfect time. Whether you’re looking for inspiration as a guitarist or simply want to experience the joy of a true musical original, Snooks delivers every time as you can see in the video performance of Snooks Eagin from 1995 in Nola USA just below.
Do you have a favorite Snooks Eaglin song or performance? Share it in the comments below! While you are here why not check out more sweet soulful guitar to discover like Snooks Eaglin here on guitardoor