What makes Pickin' the Blues by Doc Watson notable?

This album is significant for its authentic representation of traditional American blues, contributing to the preservation of the genre during a time when it faced declining mainstream attention. It received positive reviews from critics, further cementing Watson's influence on both folk and blues musicians who followed. By the time Doc Watson released 'Pickin' the Blues' in 1985, he was an established figure in American folk and bluegrass music, having gained recognition since the 1960s. This album came after his acclaimed works in the 70s, marking a continued evolution in his style while solidifying his status as a master guitarist and storyteller.

Who is Pickin' the Blues for?

Pickin' the Blues works well if you're into heartfelt storytelling through music, intricate guitar work appreciation and short bursts of emotional depth.

How many songs are on Pickin' the Blues?

Pickin' the Blues has 12 tracks, running approximately 37 minutes.

Pickin' the Blues

Doc Watson · 1985

37 min · 12 tracks · blues

A vibrant blend of traditional blues and folk elements, showcasing intricate guitar work and heartfelt storytelling.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Mississippi Heavy Water Blues — This track opens the album with an infectious rhythm and showcases Watson's signature fingerpicking style, setting the tone for the entire project.
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Stormy Weather — Watson’s rendition brings emotional depth to this classic song, highlighting his ability to convey poignant themes through his guitar work and vocal delivery.
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Hobo Bill's Last Ride — This track stands out for its storytelling, capturing the essence of Americana through vivid imagery and a haunting melody that resonates with listeners.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong guitar work and storytelling but remains rooted in familiar blues forms.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent use of fingerstyle guitar, with intricate picking patterns that dominate nearly every track.
Vocals are delivered in a storytelling manner, often accompanied by solo guitar without additional instrumentation.
Several tracks incorporate traditional blues structures, such as the twelve-bar format, while others blend folk elements seamlessly.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

heartfelt storytelling through music
intricate guitar work appreciation
short bursts of emotional depth
reflective moments on quiet evenings
easygoing tunes for casual listening

Maybe skip if you

seeking high-energy dance tracks
prefer longer, expansive compositions

Where this album fits

Career context: By the time Doc Watson released 'Pickin' the Blues' in 1985, he was an established figure in American folk and bluegrass music, having gained recognition since the 1960s. This album came after his acclaimed works in the 70s, marking a continued evolution in his style while solidifying his status as a master guitarist and storyteller.
Stylistic neighbors: Tony Rice· Bill Monroe· John Prine