The British music world is in mourning following the death of Mick Abrahams, a founding member and original guitarist of the legendary rock band Jethro Tull. He was 82 years old.
A Legacy Forged in the Blues
Abrahams passed away after facing 15 years of worsening health issues, which had eventually left him unable to perform. The sad news was confirmed by Jethro Tull's frontman, Ian Anderson, in a statement posted on the band's official website dated 21st December.
Anderson described Abrahams as "vitally important" to the group's early formation, which rose from the ashes of The John Evan Band and McGregor's Engine. The latter was a blues band Abrahams co-founded with drummer Clive Bunker in the Luton and Dunstable area.
"As a strong vocalist and experienced, powerful and lyrical guitarist, Mick commanded the stage," Anderson recalled, highlighting Abrahams' standout performances of "Cat Squirrel" at London's Marquee Club and even when the band supported the iconic Cream.
Tributes from Bandmates and a Successor
Martin Barre, the guitarist who replaced Abrahams in Jethro Tull, paid a heartfelt tribute to his predecessor. He called Abrahams his "friend and mentor," stating, "He was so nice to me and that is something I will never forget. What a magnificent guitar player who gave us so much."
Abrahams' time with Jethro Tull, though brief, was foundational. He served as guitarist from 1967 to 1968, featuring on their debut album 'This Was' released in 1968. He departed shortly after due to artistic disagreements with Anderson about the band's musical direction.
Undeterred, Abrahams immediately channeled his energy into his own band, Blodwyn Pig, which he led. The group released two well-received albums before disbanding in 1970.
A Long Battle with Health
In later years, Abrahams faced significant health challenges. He suffered a heart attack in November 2009. The following April 2010, he was diagnosed with Ménière's disease, a debilitating inner ear disorder that causes severe vertigo, tinnitus, and hearing loss.
Despite these struggles, his musical influence and the powerful legacy of his early work with one of Britain's most innovative rock bands remain undimmed. Ian Anderson's statement concluded by noting that Abrahams continued to develop his iconic "Cat Squirrel" piece as a "tour de force display of his instrumental talents for the rest of his performing days."
The news of his passing marks the end of an era for the pioneering chapter of British blues-rock.
