Max Tovstyi: Heats Up The Desert With His Smoking Guitar Blues
BY: AJ ROVER | Date: September 4, 2026
Introduction: Max & Me
Max and I became acquainted online just after the war in Ukraine broke out in 2022 as I was doing research for my radio show. I was curious to know if there were any blues bands or musicians working from Ukraine and I discovered a blues album which I came to love after hearing it for the first time. The album? Max Tovstyi And Friends – Playing The Blues which was released in 2019. I was able to connect with Max by social media, and I would feature his blues on my radio broadcasts at www.bluesmusicfan.com
We stayed in touch, our friendship grew and we are still close today. Max had been building an international career while touring in Europe and then something unexpected occurred.
Flash Forward:
Lo and behold, I discovered that in December 2022 Max had arrived in Phoenix, AZ along with his wife, their two cats, very few belongings and some of his favorite guitars. He was right here in Phoenix; I couldn’t believe it! He started playing very small shows, finding gigs wherever he could, making contacts and his reputation grew. People know a good thing when they hear it.
Working Man: He busts it
Max booked more gigs, and still more, playing local venues like the Internationally famous Rhythm Room where blues artists from all over the world have performed during the last 30 years. He performed 201 shows in 2025 and is on track to perform over 200 shows again this year. Max’s shows are enjoyed at bars, restaurants, private events, casinos and large venues alike. 
His guitar can scream the loudest blues rock anthem with precision or purr like a kitten. It’s the music that makes his shows special and a joy to attend; engaging the audience and receiving their appreciation. Tovstyi enjoys playing his take on traditional blues, heavy blues rock along with his own originals. Max enjoys covering Stevie Ray Vaughn, Jimi Hendrix and many other blues greats. One of his favorite Hendrix’s tunes to play is Voodoo Chile, where he can easily perform for 7-10 minutes and display all his talent.
BLUES: AZ Albums & Competitions
Max has released two albums since arriving in Phoenix. The first, Arizona Blues was recorded and produced here in 2033, with all the proceeds from the album going to help Ukraine. His second album Songs From The Desert was released in vinyl and features 8 tracks and was released March 1, 2025.
In the fall of 2025, Max competed at The Rhythm Room in Phoenix for a chance to participate in the 2026 International Blues Challenge in Memphis, TN. The Arizona Blues Showdown took place on October 5, 2025, and was hosted by Phoenix Blues Society. Max placed Second.
What The Future Holds: It looks bright to me
Max Tovstyi works very hard at his craft. He is an exceptionally talented guitarist. Max is generous, gives his all every show, and rewards us all with his blues!
ALL PHOTOGRAPHS: Courtesy Max Tovastyi
