Glenn Hughes recently shared his thoughts on the greatest guitarists he’s worked with, making some surprising revelations in an interview with Louder Sound.
The Deep Purple legend was asked to identify the greatest guitarist he’s ever collaborated with. This led to an unexpected answer that didn’t include his former bandmate Ritchie Blackmore.
“Oh god, that’s really difficult. I don’t want people to be upset with me because I don’t mention Ritchie or Tommy or Mel or Pat, but I have to say it’s a tie between Gary Moore and Joe Bonamassa,” Hughes said.
Hughes elaborated on his choice. He explained the profound impact these musicians had on him personally and professionally.
“I’m talking about the fever it has given me working with them. Gary coming to my house at three in the morning and just blowing my mind – it’s incredible what a guitar player he was,” he continued. “And Joe Bonamassa is blowing my mind every night. Bonamassa is the greatest right now.”
Hughes’ praise for these two guitarists stems from decades of meaningful collaborations that have shaped his musical journey beyond his Deep Purple years.
Rock and Roll Garage reported that Hughes worked with Gary Moore on the Irish guitarist’s 1985 album Run for Cover. Hughes contributed bass guitar and vocals on several tracks. This collaboration marked the beginning of a friendship that would see Moore making those memorable late-night visits to Hughes’ home, creating spontaneous musical moments that clearly left a lasting impression on the bassist.
The connection with Joe Bonamassa runs even deeper in Hughes’ current career. Loudwire noted that since 2009 Hughes has been the frontman of Black Country Communion, a supergroup formed with Bonamassa on guitar. The band has released five studio albums to date, including their most recent effort V in 2024. This showcases the ongoing creative chemistry between the two musicians.
Hughes’ assessment places both guitarists above other legendary figures he’s worked with throughout his career. This includes not just Blackmore but also Tony Iommi from Black Sabbath and other notable musicians. Wikipedia documented that Hughes has collaborated with numerous high-profile artists throughout his career. This makes his specific praise for Moore and Bonamassa particularly significant.
The comments highlight Hughes’ deep appreciation for both the late Gary Moore and current blues-rock virtuoso Joe Bonamassa. He places them above other notable guitarists he’s collaborated with throughout his career based on the personal and musical connection he felt while working with them.
