American Blues Scene has reported that blues legend Johnny Winter has died at the age of 70. Winter reportedly passed away in a hotel room in Zurich, Switzerland.
Winter, who played the Narrows Center for the Arts in Fall River back in January, had a string of upcoming tour dates through 2014. He was set to release a new album, Step Back, on September 2.
Here’s more from Consequence of Sound:
Born in Beaumont, Texas in 1944, Winter remained active in music for over five decades, earning acclaim as both a guitarist and record producer. His big break came while opening a show for Mike Bloomfield in 1968. Winter’s performance that evening caught the eye of Columbia Records, who quickly signed him to a contract. He was given a $600,000 advance, the largest one ever received at that time.
In the years that followed, Winter would release nearly 20 albums. He was praised for his high-energy performances and elaborate chops, leading to seven Grammy nominations and a nod as the 63rd best guitarist ever by Rolling Stone.
In addition to his solo work, Winter produced three Muddy Waters albums — 1977′s Hard Again, 1978′s I’m Ready, and 1981′s King Bee – as well as 1979′s Muddy “Mississippi” Waters – Live. Winter’s efforts as a producer earned him three Grammy Awards.
Winter is known for being an original performer at Woodstock ’69. He’s also brother of fellow music legend Edgar Winter.