Bobby Carrillo-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.
The Bobby Thompson Trio has become one of the Washington, D.C. region’s most trusted and enduring electric blues ensembles, built on years of shared chemistry and a deep respect for the craft. Led by Thompson’s expressive guitar work and raw, soulful vocals, the trio is powered by the unmistakable groove of Andy Hamburger on drums and the steady, melodic backbone of Kurt Kratch on bass. Together, the three create a sound that is both tight and unpredictable — a live, improvisational approach that keeps every performance fresh. Their shows have become known for pocket-driven blues, extended solos, and a dynamic interplay that can only come from musicians who listen deeply to one another.
As a trio, their musical identity balances tradition and innovation. The band draws from the roots of Chicago blues, Texas shuffles, and the raw energy of early rock ’n’ roll, while filtering everything through the lens of modern electric blues. Andy’s seasoned, unshakeable drumming anchors the group with power and sensitivity, while Kurt’s instinctive bass lines frame the harmony and push the music forward. Thompson’s guitar and vocal phrasing sit at the center, weaving storytelling, grit, and melodic inventiveness into every song. This combination allows the trio to shine in intimate clubs and larger stages alike, creating a live experience that feels honest, energetic, and deeply connected to the audience.
Looking ahead to 2026, the Bobby Thompson Trio is preparing to enter the studio to record a new full-length blues album — their first project built specifically around the trio format. The recording will feature a mix of fan-favorite tracks from their live sets, reimagined through the clarity of the studio, alongside a collection of brand-new originals that reflect the band’s growth and years of performing together. The album aims to capture the sound that longtime fans know best: raw, live-in-the-room energy, musicians responding to each other in real time, and songwriting that fuses groove, emotion, and storytelling. With plans for a mid-to-late 2026 release, the trio is poised to deliver their most focused and authentic statement yet — a modern electric blues record rooted in the spirit of three musicians who have spent years honing their craft onstage, night after night.
Across his career, Thompson has performed under several configurations that reflect the scope of his musical voice. For solo recordings, touring, and future releases, he now uses his full artistic name, Bobby Carrillo-Thompson, emphasizing the personal nature of his songwriting and the evolving direction of his creative work. In the Washington, D.C. area, he continues to perform electric club shows as the Bobby Thompson Trio, a name long associated with his regional live identity and trusted by local audiences. For larger productions, festivals, and extended arrangements, he performs as the Bobby Thompson Band, an expanded ensemble that delivers a fuller, more powerful version of his sound. Each name represents a distinct but interconnected chapter of his artistry — solo, trio, and full band — allowing him to move fluidly between intimate storytelling and high-energy performance.
Renowned for his courage and creativity, Thompson uses music as a window into self-expression, prioritizing authenticity over imitation. Whether performing alone with an acoustic guitar or leading a full electric band, his professionalism and emotional honesty captivate audiences. Over time, his artistry has expanded beyond guitar-centric beginnings into a holistic vision of songwriting, lyrical narrative, and communal connection, earning him a devoted following and a reputation for transformative live shows.
Deeply rooted in blues and folk traditions, Thompson draws inspiration from icons like Taj Mahal, John Hammond Jr., Mississippi John Hurt, and innovators such as John Fahey. His songwriting carries echoes of Lightnin’ Hopkins, Townes Van Zandt, and Bob Dylan, weaving together the shared ground between folk and blues. His commitment to preserving and reinterpreting these traditions ensures they remain vital and relevant, even as his own voice continues to push 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, with special appearances from artists 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, culminating in a nationwide tour that reaffirmed his standing as a leading voice in modern blues.
Thompson’s journey began with childhood 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 to develop 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 such as Blueheart Revival and Revelator Hill, collaborations with Justin Jones and Laura Tsaggaris, and winning the 2018 Wammie Award for Best Blues Album.
As 2026 approaches, Thompson enters a bold new era. Moving forward, he will perform and release solo material under the name Bobby Carrillo-Thompson, honoring his mother’s Peruvian family heritage — a source of identity, strength, and inspiration that has long shaped his artistry beneath the surface. This evolution unites his past achievements with a renewed creative vision, allowing him to step fully into a name that reflects where he comes from and where he is going. For longtime fans and new listeners alike, Bobby Carrillo-Thompson represents continuity, growth, and transformation: the same passionate musician, carrying the story forward under a name that mirrors the heart behind the music.