Coco Montoya and Ronnie Baker Brooks

Blues-rock guitarist Coco Montoya, born in Santa Monica, started as a drummer influenced by rock & roll. Known for blending Chicago blues with R&B and Latin rhythms, he gained fame with Albert Collins and John Mayall's bands in the '90s. His albums frequently hit the blues Top 10, with notable works like "Gotta Mind to Travel," scoring a W.C. Handy award. Montoya’s style evolves from heartfelt blues roots, contributing significantly to the genre's modern landscape.

Chicago-born Ronnie Baker Brooks, son of blues legend Lonnie Brooks, is known for his soulful blues guitar and collaborations with artists like Eddy Clearwater and Chris Beard. Launching his solo career in 1998 with the album "Golddigger," Brooks also produced and co-wrote for other musicians. His notable works include "Times Have Changed" and the charting "Blues in My DNA."