Blues and rock musician John Mayall — the “godfather of British blues” — died at age 90 on Monday.
“It is with heavy hearts that we share the news that John Mayall passed away peacefully at his home in California yesterday, July 22, 2024, surrounded by his loving family,” his family confirmed. statement Tuesday. “The health issues that forced John to end his epic touring career have finally led to peace for one of this world's greatest road warriors.” The cause of death was not immediately disclosed.
“John Mayall gave us ninety years of tireless effort to educate, inspire and entertain,” the statement continued, saying he was “surrounded with love” by his ex-wives Pamela and Maggie, his secretary Jane and close friends friends. “Keep playing the blues somewhere, John. We love you,” his family wrote.
Mayall is credited with pioneering the blues in England in the late 60s. His band, The Bluesbreakers, once included the likes of Eric Clapton, Mick Fleetwood, John McVie and Mick Taylor. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is set to induct Mayall in October after the organization's panel presented him with the Musical Influence Award, along with Alexis Korner and Big Mama Thornton.
Mayall said Rolling rock in 2021, as he turned 88, he decided to “hang up my shoes”, although he promised to release another album, The sun is shining.
The obituary publication showed an interview Mayall did The guardian, sharing how he connected with the blues because of his “raw honesty, connection and community.” The statement also shared a quote from Mayall about the future of the blues that read: “To be honest, I don't think anyone really knows what it is. I just can't stop playing it.”
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