Samuel “Lightnin’” Hopkins (1912–1982) was a legendary Texas blues musician known for his raw, emotive guitar style and improvisational storytelling. Born in Centerville, Texas, he learned guitar from his older cousin and was mentored by Blind Lemon Jefferson. Hopkins rose to fame in the 1940s and ’50s with hits like “Mojo Hand” and “T-Model Blues,” recording prolifically across dozens of labels. His music blended country blues with electric flair, often featuring syncopated rhythms and witty, self-referential lyrics. A charismatic performer, he played everywhere from street corners to Carnegie Hall, influencing generations of artists including Stevie Ray Vaughan and Townes Van Zandt.
