Here are some musicians that I have a lot of respect for. The Allman Brothers Band, Bach, BB king, the Beatles, Mozart, Muddy Waters, Santana, etc. I believe that great music transcends generational barriers.
I feel my southern roots come from the Allman Brothers, Marshal Tucker, Johny Cash, and Doc Watson. I like folk music.
From the era of rock and roll; Led Zepiline, The Greatful Dead, and the Beatles.
I feel you just can't ignore the old masters of composition. Bach, Mozart, and Beethoven are at the top of my list.
Other artists... Django Reinhardt. Danny Gatton, Santana, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Bob Marley, Yellow Man