Which instrument is central to traditional blues music?

The guitar is central to traditional blues music due to its versatility and the richness it brings to the genre. In blues, the guitar often serves as both a melodic and rhythmic instrument, allowing for intricate solos and chord progressions that express the emotional depth characteristic of the music. The acoustic guitar, in particular, is foundational in early blues, especially in styles like Delta blues, while the electric guitar gained prominence in urban blues, contributing significantly to the sound and evolution of the genre. The guitar's ability to convey personal stories and feelings through techniques such as bending notes and using slide adds to its importance in creating the distinctive sound of blues music.