Music
17 Jul 14

Johnny Winter RIP

Hot Press was saddened to learn of the death last night in Zurich of Johnny Winter, the 70-year-old bluesman who according to his sister, Jenda, had “not been in good health and was very frail and weak.”

“Cork had Rory Gallagher and Texas had Johnny Winter, whose songs were covered by many a blues rock band in Cork and all over Ireland, over the years,” reflects Hot Press contributor Paul O’Mahony. “His records are in the collections of many Irish musicians of the '70s and '80s, in particular. He was unique, anarchic in his own way, and - like Rory - a guitar genius.”
Also paying tribute to Winter are Guns N’ Roses drummer Matt Sorum who says: "I've just become close with Edgar and I'm so sad for him and his family”; Dave McHugh who notes: “Sad news. Another legend gone” and Benmont Tench III who reminisces: “I once saw Johnny Winter play an impromptu set at a New Orleans club, backed by the MC5. It was a spectacular evening.”