Blues-Rock guitarist Gary Moore Passes away at 58

Gary Moore, the legendary Irish blues-rock guitarist, has passed away at age 58. Gary was well known as the guitarist for the band Thin Lizzy, who had hits such as “The Boys Are Back In Town” and “Whiskey in the Jar”; as well as for his extensive blues and jazz solo work.

His official website simply reads; “It is with deep sorrow and regret, that we have to announce that Gary Moore passed away while on holiday in Spain last night. Our thoughts are with his children, family and friends at this sad time”.

Moore is well known to fans of blues and blues rock, as well as to guitarists around the globe. He had a long and intimate relationship with the blues, releasing the critically acclaimed solo blues album Still Got The Blues in 1997, which brought in contributions from blues greats Albert King, Johnny “Guitar” Watson, Otis Rush, and Albert Collins, as well as former Beatle George Harrison. He issued a number of blues albums with his signature stinging guitar riffs and bluesy electric sound, and made dozens of original songs, as well as a number of blues covers of tracks by Jimmy Rodgers, Willie Dixon, Otis Rush, Elmore James, and many others. Gary’s guitar work and abilities as a songster have been praised as being among the best in the world.

Thin Lizzy drummer Brian Downey said that Moore’s death was a “total shock”. Guitarist Scott Gorham said Moore was “a great player and a great guy.”

The world of music and guitars will be a smaller place without Gary Moore’s larger-than-life talent and often praised ability.  American Blues Scene would like to extend our thoughts and prayers to his family and friends during this difficult time.