1. Pre-war blues
Which war?
Spanish American? Granada? Or one of the somewhat more involved affairs? How about police actions, do they count?
Female - Billies a good choice but Ill go with Ella Fitzgerald if I can pick the war.
Male - Leadbelly. Anyone who can sing themselves out of prison twice? No brainer here.
2. Electric blues
Female - The little gal with the big voice from Port Arthur TX Janis Joplibn. Duh.
Male Michael John ( and the bottom Line Band West Coast Big band Blues), otherwise Johnny Langs emotive powers usually makes him stand out to me in spite of his less than dazzeling vocal ability. Walter Trout is a better singer. Michael J. though puts both energy and ability into his vocals as the bands front man.
3. Blues-rock
Female - Bonnie Raitt seems a shoe in here, but Susan Tedeski does have some nice cords.
Male - George Thoroughgood, Derek Trucks. Someone else can support Clapton or Trower.