Leo Kottke is an American acoustic guitarist known for his virtuosic fingerpicking technique, innovative compositions, and dry, self-deprecating sense of humor.

Rising to prominence in the late 1960s and early 1970s, Kottke carved out a unique niche in the folk and acoustic music world with his blend of blues, jazz, folk, and classical influences. His distinctive style—often played on 6- and 12-string guitars—features syncopated rhythms, complex melodies, and percussive techniques that have earned him a reputation as one of the most technically skilled and creatively original guitarists of his generation. Despite a career-long struggle with partial hearing loss and tendon damage, Kottke has released dozens of albums and remains a beloved figure in the acoustic music scene.