Artists that use the same song structure...

I was about to make Frogman's post - almost word for word. The observation re: the blues also applies (tho less precisely) to basic rock n roll song structures. Chuck Berry's song structures are almost as limited as haiku - and therein lies the art: Can you make compelling music within the strict limitations of the form?

I don't see this as a criticism at all. Creating within a norrow environment is not only an artistic challenge, but it's a challenge in which the results are often satisfying at a very basic and fundamental level. There's something essential (and, weirdly, "elegant") about a great rock n roll or blues song. In an even weirder sense, I get a similar sense of satisfaction from a well executed plate of sashimi.

At the other end of the same spectrum (and without drawing an equivalency to blues or rock music), Bach often works within a narrower range of expression than did later Western classical composers. I'd argue that his music lies within a sharply less expansive universe of expression than someone like Beethoven, yet I'd never diminish his work for that reason.

Sometimes, IMO the best answer is the simplest - and the simplest answer is found within the tightest limits.

If in your entire life you just have a single really good idea and develop it you are considered a success. Two ideas in lifetime and you're a genius. Albert Einstein said he only had three good ideas in his whole life. If SRV kept re-using his good idea I still tip my hat to him.

Agree completely, Frogman. Disagree completely, Czarivey.

+2 for Frogman. Blues consists almost entirely of 12-bar or 8-bar forms, although the older generation often ignored (or lost track of) the time count, when they felt like it ("Lightnin' strike where lightnin' want." Lightning Hopkins.) SRV achieved amazing variety within the limitations of the form, but it was done mostly via the solos, in his live shows. His albums are pale reflections of what he could really do.

Pride and Joy was admirably original, for a blues. No real argument about I'm Cryin', but in live performance, you would never confuse the two.

When someone told Jimi Vaughan that Stevie never played anything the same way twice, he replied, "Stevie never plays anything the same way once!"

Bdp, Sorry my wrong: Bluegrass has 2 types of songs: in minor and in major the rest is same.