Bobby Thompson is a mesmerizing guitarist and captivating vocalist who has carved out a place as one of the mid-Atlantic’s most dynamic blues and rock artists. Cutting his teeth in Washington, D.C.’s legendary blues clubs, he absorbed the lessons of mentors like Bobby Parker and Tom Principato, forging a style that blends fiery guitar work with soulful storytelling. Transitioning from an in-demand supporting player to a solo artist, Thompson has released a steady catalog of acclaimed albums since 2011, establishing himself as a creative force with both songwriting depth and stage presence.
Renowned for his courage and creativity, Thompson uses music as a window into his own self-expression. Whether performing solo with acoustic guitar or leading a full electric band, his authenticity and professionalism captivate audiences. Over time, his artistry has evolved beyond his guitar-centric beginnings, growing into a holistic vision of songwriting, performance, and connection that has earned him a devoted fan base. His live shows are known for their transformative energy, carrying listeners on journeys that are as emotional as they are musical.
Deeply rooted in blues and folk traditions, Thompson prioritizes authentic interpretation and original composition over imitation. He draws inspiration from blues icons like Taj Mahal, John Hammond Jr., and Mississippi John Hurt, as well as folk innovators such as John Fahey. The influence of Lightnin’ Hopkins, Townes Van Zandt, and Bob Dylan runs deep in his songwriting, which often explores the shared ground between folk and blues. His commitment to preserving and reinterpreting these traditions ensures that they remain vital in the present day, while pushing them into new directions.
Most recently, the Bobby Thompson Band released Shine (2025), a vibrant collection of nine original tracks recorded with longtime collaborators Bronson Hoover, Ben Tufts, Chris Brown, and Andy Hamburger, along with special guests including Anthony “Swamp Dog” Clark. Released digitally in April 2025 and physically on Root Nine Records in May, the album showcases Thompson’s songwriting at its most energetic and groove-driven, celebrated with a nationwide tour that reaffirmed his standing as a leading voice in modern blues.
Thompson’s journey began with piano lessons inspired by his sister, before an uncle encouraged him to pick up the electric guitar as a teenager. From those early days, he pursued music wholeheartedly, blending formal study with countless hours onstage, shaping a style that is both technically masterful and deeply emotive. His career highlights include a three-month tour with SOJA in 2009, years of leading bands like Blueheart Revival and Revelator Hill, collaborations with artists like Justin Jones and Laura Tsaggaris, and winning the 2018 Wammie Award for Best Blues Album.
Now, as 2026 approaches, Bobby Thompson is preparing for a bold new chapter. Moving forward, he will perform and release music under his mother’s family name, Bobby Carrillo-Thompson. This rebrand is deeply personal, reflecting not only his artistic evolution but also his desire to honor his mother’s Peruvian heritage — a source of strength, identity, and inspiration that has always flowed beneath his music. By stepping into the Carrillo name, Bobby unites his past achievements with a renewed sense of purpose, embracing a fuller identity that bridges family legacy with creative vision. For audiences old and new, Bobby Carrillo-Thompson represents both continuity and transformation: the same passionate musician, carrying forward the story with a name that reflects where he truly comes from.
