‘Godfather of British blues’ John Mayall was ‘major influence on rock and roll’

Blues pioneer John Mayall has been remembered as “a major influence on rock and roll” following his death at the age of 90.

The musician’s influential band, the Bluesbreakers, was a launching pad for stars including Eric Clapton and Mick Fleetwood.

He died at his home in California on Monday surrounded by his family, a statement on his Instagram page said.

A tribute from the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, which inducted Mayall earlier this year, said: “2024 Inductee John Mayall was the godfather of British blues.

“As a singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and bandleader, Mayall displayed a talent for mentoring gifted young musicians, many of whom he recruited for his groundbreaking band the Bluesbreakers.

“With a rugged individuality and distinctive voice and style, he made visionary recordings that expanded the reach of the blues without ever watering them down.

“Mayall exerted a major influence on rock and roll, inspiring countless musicians and fans with a lifetime’s worth of unforgettable and influential music.”

Among other recruits to the Bluesbreakers were guitarists Peter Green and Mick Taylor, bassists Jack Bruce and John McVie, and drummer Aynsley Dunbar.

American blues rock guitarist Joe Bonamassa shared a number of his album covers and a picture of himself with Mayall on social media and wrote: “Rest in Peace my friend.”

He added the Union flag and a broken heart emoji.

A statement on Mayall’s Instagram page said: “It is with heavy hearts that we bear the news that John Mayall passed away peacefully in his California home yesterday, July 22, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.

“Health issues that forced John to end his epic touring career have finally led to peace for one of this world’s greatest road warriors. John Mayall gave us ninety years of tireless efforts to educate, inspire and entertain.”

It added: “Keep on playing the blues somewhere, John. We love you.”

Mayall was made an OBE in 2005.

He is survived by his six children – Gaz, Jason, Red, Ben, Zak and Samson – seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.