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Coco Montoya is a celebrated American blues guitarist and vocalist, recognised for his passionate performances and mastery of the blues genre. Born in Santa Monica, California, Montoya began his musical journey as a drummer, and his career took a pivotal turn when he met the legendary Albert Collins in the 1970s. Collins became his mentor, teaching him the fundamentals of the blues and urging him to transition to guitar. Montoya’s left-handed, upside-down playing style and emotional phrasing became his signature, blending fiery intensity with heartfelt soul.
“Just play what you feel, be real about it, and enjoy yourself." Albert Collins
That’s what Albert Collins taught Coco. The self-taught, left-handed Montoya mastered his craft under Collins’ tutelage. Incorporating lessons learned from his mentors, the iconic Collins (for whom he originally drummed), and UK legend John Mayall, Montoya puts his own stamp onto every song he performs.
From Drums to Guitar: The Early Years
Henry “Coco” Montoya was born in Santa Monica, California, on October 2, 1951, and raised in a working-class family. Growing up, Coco immersed himself in his parents’ record collection. He listened to big band jazz, salsa, doo-wop and rock ‘n’ roll. His first love was drums; he acquired a kit at age 11. He got a guitar two years later. “But guitar was his secondary instrument. Montoya turned his love of drumming into his profession, playing in a number of area rock bands while still in his teens and becoming an in-demand drummer.
The Concert that Changed his Life
In 1969, Montoya saw Albert King opening a Creedence Clearwater Revival/Iron Butterfly concert in Los Angeles. He was transformed. He knew that was what he wanted to do.
The next chapter of Montoya’s story was kick-started by a chance meeting in the mid-70s with legendary bluesman Albert Collins. Collins hired Montoya as his band’s drummer and began mentoring him. Soon Coco became Collins’ second guitarist. He was like a father to him.
Joining the Bluesbreakers: A New Era with John Mayall
Needing a more regular paycheck, Montoya left Collins’ band after two years and took a job bar tending and jamming on weekends. One day, legendary British musician John Mayall heard Coco playing Otis Rush’s All Your Love (I Miss Loving) onstage. Soon after, Mayall called on Montoya to join his famous Bluesbreakers.
The Solo Breakthrough: Gotta Mind to Travel and Beyond
Coco recorded his first solo album in 1995. Gotta Mind To Travel. The album became an instant fan favourite. Coco was well on his way.
In 2000, his album, Suspicion, quickly became the best-selling album of his career, earning regular radio airplay. Montoya’s fan base exploded. Several more albums followed as the guitar master continued to blaze his trail.
On the Road: The Power of Live Performances
Still an indefatigable road warrior, Montoya continues to tour constantly, bringing audiences to their feet everywhere. Now, with his latest album, Writing On The Wall, Coco couldn’t be happier.
Critical Acclaim and Recognition: Awards and Accolades
Coco Montoya is known for his dynamic live performances. His contributions to the blues genre have earned him awards and accolades, including the Blues Music Award for Best New Blues Artist in 1996. Montoya is often compared to legends like Albert Collins and B.B. King, ensuring his enduring influence on future generations of blues musicians.
