With his band Dr. Feelgood was Wilko Johnson's breakthrough in the 1970s. The musician was known for his distinctive guitar style. Even after his cancer diagnosis nine years ago, he continued to make music. Now the all-rounder has died at the age of 75.
Wilko Johnson, the former guitarist for British rock band Dr. Feelgood, died. The influential musician was 75 years old. A statement on his official social media accounts said he died at home on November 21. "Thank you for respecting the privacy of Wilko's family at this very sad time, and thank you to all of you who have been so supportive of Wilko throughout his incredible life," the post continues.
Johnson was diagnosed with end-stage pancreatic cancer in 2013 and the guitarist decided against chemotherapy. In 2014 he released the album Going Back Home, a collaboration with Roger Daltrey of The Who. Later in the year, he announced he was cancer-free after major surgery to remove a tumor.
Wilko Johnson was born John Peter Wilkinson in 1947 in Canvey Island, Essex. He began his career in 1971 when he formed the band Dr. Feelgood founded. The group established themselves as a fixture on the British pub rock scene. Johnson was known for his distinctive guitar style. He left the band in 1977 after arguments. The musician also occasionally appeared as an actor, starting in 2011 in four episodes of the hit series "Game of Thrones" as the executioner Ser Ilyn Payn.
Some stars have already said goodbye to Johnson, including Alex Kapranos from the Scottish band Franz Ferdinand. "His unique, wired playing and stage presence delighted and inspired many guitarists, myself included," he tweeted. "His presence will be felt for many years to come." Jimmy Page, former producer of the British rock band Led Zeppelin, also mourns Johnson on Twitter: "I am saddened to hear today of the death of Wilko Johnson, the Dr. Feelgood guitarist and singer/songwriter."
