R.I.P – 20 Years Later – Stevie Ray Vaughan

Yesterday marked the 20th anniversary of the day the music stood still…when SRV passed on in a helicopter crash after playing Alpine Valley.

It seems like a few months ago, but there have been very few times I have been blown away by music since then. In fact, I would have to say I listen much more today to all of the original bluesmen – thanks to Stevie for opening my eyes to all of these guys.

Buddy Guy, Hubert Sumlin, Otis Rush, Abert, BB, Freddie King, Lightning Hopkins, his brother Jimmie who I like more and more each time I listen to him…all brought to my attention starting with Stevie’s unwavering support of those who went before him.

And it was heart felt too…just look at any video where Stevie played with his mentors – Albert King on “In Session”, BB King, this video where he shares the stage with the great Johnny Copeland on a couple of songs – first the rocking blues number “Little Sister” and second, the laid back, but powerful “Tin Pan Alley” – watch how much he enjoys and respects being on the stage with another of his hero’s:

I am thankful each and every day that I lived in the same lifetime as SRV, it was him that sparked my own interest in guitar playing, opened up the heartfelt and pure experience of blues music, created friendships I would never have had and allowed me to share much of this with my own kids. 

To all of those who were close to Stevie Ray, his family, friends and loved ones who now carry the burden of sharing the one they love with an adoring public – stay strong and you have managed his legacy well. 

RIP 20-Years After to one of the greatest blues guitar players that ever lived…Stevie Ray Vaughan!