Hubert Sumlin

Hubert Sumlin (1931-2011 ) played lead guitar behind Howlin' Wolf from 1955 until the Wolf's death in 1976. Sumlin's rapid-fire runs and searing bends can be heard on most of Howlin' Wolf's most famous Chess cuts. His lead style and tone are among the most recognizable and influential in blues history.

Many have sought to imitate Sumlin's tone and approach to playing leads and fills. He played with his bare fingers - at the insistance of Howlin' Wolf. His tone can be "sortof" simulated on a Stratocaster by moving the toggle switch to an "inbetween" position.

I'm not sure how to get that tone using a Les Paul, but it works for me on the Fender. In realty, it seems almost impossible to get the Hubert Sumin tone - despite claims by some that it is.

Wikipedia Biography