I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of my friend and inspiration, John Hammond, Jr. From the first time I heard him on the first blues album I bought, Blues at Newport ‘63 on Vanguard Records, I was just knocked out and have felt that way about him ever since.

(1/5)

He was the inspiration for teaching myself blues guitar and learning how to sing these songs we loved so much. He made it cool and all right.

Not only was he a virtuoso on guitar, harp, singing and choosing songs, to me it felt like he was totally possessed by the blues.

(2/5)

I’m so heartbroken for the many thousands of people in Los Angeles who have suffered the loss of their homes, schools, businesses and entire communities.

(1/6) I was raised in LA, spent 2 decades of my adult life there and our family spent most of our family reunions and holidays visiting my Dad, where he lived in the Palisades the last 30 years of his life.

(2/6)

I’m deeply sorry to mark the passing of my friend, Dick Waterman, who made such a huge impact on the lives and careers of so many great blues artists, championing them as people as much as their music, booking and managing them with great care, integrity and skill.

(1/7)

He gave me my start as well, going on to book and represent me for 15 years. He was also a renowned photographer who published a book and his wonderful photographs of some of our most legendary roots artists...

(2/7)

I’m still reeling! So grateful to everyone who helped bring me to last night. Thanks to the @RecordingAcad members who voted for me; to all the members of our mighty @Redwing_Records and support team: to my band, our brilliant engineer, Ryan Freeland...

(1/4) and to my wonderful road crew—I thank you all for helping me get our music out to the world.

And to all the friends, family and fans who lift me up with their steady love and support.

(2/4)