Legendary Blues Guitarist Johnny Winter Dies At 70, Muddy Waters Producer Remembered As Music Icon

Blues music's own Johnny Winter has reportedly passed away at the age of 70. Winter was noted for being an imperative figure in the blues world, known as a performer, guitarist, singer and music producer.

"I love blues," he told Guitar World back in 2010. "I don't mind a little rock and roll, too, as long as it's blues-based rock and roll.

Winter was the older brother of Edgar Winter, who also happens to hold a spot in our hearts for being a music legend.

The guitarist's time in the spotlight came in the late 1960s and '70s with not only his beloved performances but also with his now legendary recording sessions with childhood hero Muddy Waters, where Winters acted as producer.

It was confirmed to the Associated Press today that Winter had died in his hotel in Zurich on Wednesday. A statement on the musician's Facebook page went up this morning, reading: "His wife, family and bandmates are all saddened by the loss of their loved one and one of the world's finest guitarists."

In the Guitar World interview, Winter spoke of his health, claiming he was "not in the best shape for a while there." He discussed his addiction to prescription drugs combined with an abundant amount of alcohol intake. However, he added, "I feel great now."

While being one of the most noted blues musicians around, Winter never once won a Grammy, despite having released more than 25 albums over the course of his stellar career.

In an interview with JournalStar.com from just last month, Winter explained what he'd like his legacy to be. "I just hope I'm remembered as a good blues musician."

Tags

Blues, Muddy waters