Ryan McGarvey

Ryan McGarvey

Ryan McGarvey is a US blues rock guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter. His work draws on early delta blues and classic hard rock, while also incorporating modern blues rock. He is known for guitar playing that moves from delta slide to hard-driving rock, as well as for his vocal style and songwriting.

Career

McGarvey builds an international following through his recordings and live performances. He shares stages with artists including Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, B.B. King, Joe Bonamassa, and Kenny Wayne Shepherd. His reputation also leads to features in publications such as Guitar World, Guitar Player, Premier Guitar, Music Connection, Gitarist, Blues Magazine, Rock Times, and Blues Review.

Festival appearances and recognition

In 2010, McGarvey and his band are selected from more than 4,000 artists worldwide to perform at Eric Clapton’s Crossroads Guitar Festival in Chicago. He returns to the festival in Dallas in 2019, during a European tour, and also holds a standing invitation for the 2023 Crossroads Festival in Los Angeles.

In 2013, he is named Best New Talent in Guitar Player Magazine’s annual Readers Choice Awards. He also receives Hall of Fame status at the European Blues Awards.

Live band and recordings

McGarvey performs with a rhythm section that often includes Logan Miles Nix, Brant Leeper, and bassist Carmine Rojas. Reviewers describe his recordings as both explosive and nuanced, and his live shows as powerful, dynamic, and engaging.