Earl “Guitar” Williams

Known in and around his hometown of Bessemer, Alabama Earl "Guitar" Williams is no stranger to blues lovers. He is recognized for the electrifying sound of his guitar and harmonica. Earl discovered his interest in music at the tender age of seven and crafted his own guitar by using a cigar box, broomstick, and fishing cord. This marked the beginning of Earls musical career.
At the age of nine Earl became a regular fixture on the porch of Mr. Gip, a backyard juke joint in Bessemer, Alabama. By age 15 Earl was playing in local clubs.

Earl played with several local bands. While playing with the band Kalu he was noticed by Latimore who took Earl on the road. Earl played the chitlin’ circuit for several years with Latimore. By the mid 80’s Earl needed to think more about family than music. He attended barbering college, quit touring, and opened a beauty salon.

Earl continued to play locally. In 2012 he entered the Magic City Blues Competition winning the solo/duo category, later competing in the international competition in Memphis. This adventure inspired Earl to again become serious about the blues and his music. He honed his skills on his cigar box guitar becoming a regular performer at cigar box festivals. He started writing songs. His song “Can of Alligator” is now a local favorite. His new CD produced by Music Maker and Jimbo Mathus will be released later this year.

Earl is the REAL DEAL!!