James Burton grew up 30 miles north of Baton Rouge in Dubach, played the Baton Rouge circuit as a teenager, and by 17 was recording Ricky Nelson's hits in Los Angeles. He spent 11 years as Elvis Presley's lead guitarist — the Telecaster figure on every late-period Elvis record and concert. He is in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The James Burton International Guitar Festival has been held in Shreveport, but the swamps and roadhouses south of Ruston are where he learned to play.
Quick facts
- ·Grew up in Dubach, 30 miles north of Baton Rouge, and played the Baton Rouge circuit as a teenager.
- ·By 17 he was recording Ricky Nelson's hits in Los Angeles.
- ·Spent 11 years as Elvis Presley's lead guitarist — the Telecaster figure on every late-period concert.
- ·Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
- ·The swamps and roadhouses south of Ruston are where he learned to play.
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Editorial content compiled with AI assistance. Place details verified against public records.