Christian Collin is a singer, songwriter and guitarist devoted to blues and American roots music. Based in Chicago, Collin was born in the Detroit area to a musical family. At an early age, Christian was immersed in the sounds of Motown, classic rock n’ roll and the many variants of American roots music. His parents took him to see Little Feat shortly before the passing of Lowell George in 1979 and that concert profoundly influenced Christian. Christian’s final singular moment of musical inspiration occurred when he first heard Stevie Ray Vaughan on the radio in the early 80’s. He began playing guitar at age 13 and has never looked back. Having honed his musical chops playing bars and roadhouses across the Midwest for the last fifteen years, he is a seasoned bandleader whose dynamic performances leave audiences consistently impressed.
Christian’s strong songwriting, soulful vocals and exceptional musicianship create a musical stew that excites and inspires. Collin’s voice has been described by David Caddell, a music reviewer for The Local, as “city-grit soulful and as honest as the lyrics he sings.” As Robert Noll, exclaimed, “heartfelt lyrics and a guitar that can testify!” During adolescence Robert was Christian’s guitar teacher who previously played with Albert Collins and Big Twist and the Mellow Fellows. Favoring Fender Strats, Telecasters, and a Gibson Les Paul Junior, Collin’s guitar playing is powerful and passionate, yet melodic and refined. Collin’s primary influences include Stevie Ray Vaughan, Johnny Winter, Eric Clapton, Jimi Hendrix and Lowell George of Little Feat, along with classic blues and rock n’ roll icons Albert King, Albert Collins, Magic Sam, Howlin’ Wolf, Lightnin’ Hopkins, Muddy Waters, Chuck Berry, Buddy Holly, Little Richard and Jerry Lee Lewis. And while these influences may be evident in his music, Christian is obviously his own man and has created a sound infused with originality.
Christian’s new album “Spirit of the Blues” was released on July 10, 2015, and has been getting rave reviews. “Spirit of the Blues” is now available on iTunes, Amazon and CDBaby.com.
Fabulous sound,thank you ! Heard you on Stingray and downloaded the album immediately. Any plans for tour dates in Canada ? Cheers, Martin