On November 21, 2022, the world lost a talented musician and actor. Wilko Johnson, best known for his work as a guitarist with the band Dr. Feelgood, passed away at the age of 75
How did Wilko Johnson die?
Wilko was diagnosed with terminal cancer in 2013 but continued to perform and tour despite his diagnosis.
His band shared the news of his passing on their official Twitter page as they paid tribute to the accomplished musician and actor. Wilko’s unique guitar style and animated stage presence made him a much-loved figure in the world of rock music. He also had a successful career as an actor, appearing in films such as ‘Quadrophenia’ and ‘Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves’
What was his cause of death ?
British rocker Wilko Johnson, best known for his work with the band Dr. Feelgood, has died at the age of 75. Johnson had been battling pancreatic cancer for several years and chose not to undergo chemotherapy when he was given a terminal diagnosis in 2013. He passed away at his home on Monday, November 21 his exact cause of death is not revealed by his family .
In a statement on his Twitter account, his family asked for privacy during this difficult time. Johnson was a respected and well-loved figure in the music industry, and he will be greatly missed by fans around the world.
Who was was Wilko Johnson
Wilko Johnson was born on 12 July 1947 in Canvey Island, England. He is best known for his work as a member of the pub rock/rhythm and blues group Dr. Feelgood in the 1970s. However, he has also enjoyed a successful solo career, releasing 11 studio albums since his debut in 1978.
A gifted guitarist, Johnson is renowned for his unique fingerstyle technique, which gives his playing a very percussive sound. In addition to his work as a musician, he has also appeared in several films and television shows, including an episode of the popular British sitcom “Only Fools and Horses.” Throughout his career, Johnson has received critical acclaim for his musical talent and energetic stage presence. In 2013, he was awarded an MBE for his services to music.
Wilko Johnson Early life and career
Johnson’s love for music began at a young age, as he started playing the guitar at age 15. He was born in Essex, but raised in Canvey Island.
Johnson attended Westcliff High School for Boys and later enrolled at the University of Newcastle upon Tyne to study English Language and Literature. His undergraduate studies covered both the old Icelandic sagas and Anglo-Saxon literature.
After receiving his degree, Johnson took a land route to India before returning to Essex to join the Pigboy Charlie Band, which later developed into Dr. Feelgood. Dr. Feelgood was a pioneer in the pub rock movement of the 1970s.
In addition to being a musician, Johnson also worked as an English instructor for less than a year in 1972 after his return from Goa. He is best known for his work with Dr. Feelgood and as a result of his work with the band, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2005.
Tribute pour to Wilko jhonson
As soon as the news broke that Wilko Johnson had died, tributes began pouring in from all corners of the music world. Johnson was one of the most respected and influential guitarists of his generation, and his death has left a huge hole in the British music scene. On social media, fans have been sharing their favourite memories of Johnson and his music
Laurence wrote
Very sad to hear the passing of legend Wilko Johnson. I had the honour of playing the same stage as him at the RORY GALLAGHER INTERNATIONAL TRIBUTE FESTIVAL in Ireland. I also shared a box at The Royal Albert Hall with Wilko where he was very complimentary after my performance there. One of the nicest guys I’ve met in the music industry. Also a Game of Thrones legend.
Rest In Peace & your music will live on forever ☮️ #rip #legend #wilkojohnson #laurencejones #rorygallagherfestival
Freak flag wrote
So sad to hear that Wilko Johnson has died. Our frontman Neil’s former band The Black Sheep twice supported the Dr Feelgood legend at The 100 Club in London. Soon after, Neil interviewed Wilko at his home in Westcliff, Essex, for a newspaper article – and they posed for this photo with Neil holding one of his trademark red and black guitars (Wilko liked them in the colours of the anarchist flag). Neil says: “He was a genuinely lovely bloke. Funny, self-effacing and highly intelligent. I remember us chatting about William Blake’s poetry, Latin grammar, astronomy and modern art. Not the typical rock star conversation. A wonderful guitarist and a smashing fellow.” We send our condolences to Wilko’s family and friends.
One wrote
It saddens me deeply to say this, but, farewell to Wilko Johnson who has passed away at the age of 75.
“I’ve had a fantastic life. When I think about the things that have happened to me and the things I’ve done, I think anybody who asks for more would just be being greedy. I don’t wanna be greedy.”