Carolyn Wonderland Credit: courtesy image

The men tend to hog the spotlight when it comes to guitar lore, but it’s good to be reminded that the shredder’s hall of fame is not exclusively a boys’ club. That reminder this week is roots music icon Carolyn Wonderland, who’s coming to town to hold court for two performances in a single night. 

In terms of chops, this Texan six-string slinger can melt butter with her ace guitar work. She was the only female lead guitarist in the storied history of John Mayall’s band — which, by the way, was a mythical hotbed that included legends like Eric Clapton, the Rolling Stones’ Mick Taylor, and Fleetwood Mac’s John McVie and Mick Fleetwood. 

Unlike some of her self-indulgent male peers, Wonderland doesn’t let her virtuosity overshadow the music. As a songwriter, her progressive blues sound blends certified tradition with stylistic adventurism. She also happens to pack a smoldering voice and notable skills in lap steel, mandolin, piano, accordion and trumpet as well. So bow down, bros.

7 and 9 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 20, Judson’s Live, drphillipscenter.org, $23.31-$46.91.

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This article appears in Jan. 14-20, 2026.

Music columnist.