Michael Bloomfield: The Rise and Fall of an American Guitar Hero

Ed Ward traces Bloomfield's journey from a middle-class Chicago upbringing to the forefront of the 1960s music scene. As a member of the Paul Butterfield Blues Band, he inspired a generation of white blues players. He amplified Bob Dylan's sound on "Like a Rolling Stone" and shaped the sound of electric blues. Bloomfield later formed the Electric Flag and collaborated with Al Kooper and Janis Joplin.

Based on extensive interviews and including Bloomfield's memorable 1968 Rolling Stone interview, this biography explores his instrumental prowess, substance abuse struggles, and mysterious death. Michael Bloomfield: The Rise and Fall of an American Guitar Hero is an intimate portrait of a rock pioneer for fans of music history and guitar legends.