There are three essential traits that I look for in any musician. First and foremost is feeling, usually stemming from a genuine affinity for the blues. I have to be emotionally moved to even get interested. Next up is the intensity of that feeling. All of my favorite artists and influences, regardless of genre, are capable of making a powerful statement with just one or two notes, and that takes a high level of passion and conviction. Harmonic and rhythmic creativity are third on the list, and when the imagination well is deep and combined with the first two ingredients, you have true mastery. The full package.