Influenced by rock & roll and Chicago blues, Nelson began his career at age 16. In his early twenties he co-founded a group with the late harmonica legend Back Alley John. In 1989 he launched The Drew Nelson Band and won over audiences and critics across the country. He became widely known for his slide guitar playing, gritty vocals and well-crafted songs. Nelson organized tours and recorded with the late Canadian blues pioneer Dutch Mason and has shared the stage with artists including B.B. King, Bo Diddley, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Buddy Guy and others.