Level: 2
Tuning: Open D

Josh White was the first blues guitarist that influenced my playing Initially I was only acquainted with his mid-1950s to 1960s recordings. His version of "John Henry" caught my ears. His use of treble vibrato while playing the melody lines combined with a strong alternating bass produced a magical sound.

Josh played "John Henry" in an Open D tuning. My arrangement takes some licks from Josh plus others I found while practicing the tune.

Make sure you listen to Josh White's recordings made during the 1930's. He recorded many religious songs all played in the Open D tuning. These are a must for any guitar student exploring the Open D tuning.