Best known for his stage name Captain Beefheart, musician and painter Don Vliet died in California from complications from multiple sclerosis. He fronted his band called Magic Band which rose to prominence in the 1960’s with a unique style of blues inspired rock and roll that would ultimately secure his place in music history as one of the most original recording artists of his time.
Van Vliet retired from performing after two decades in the spotlight as an avant grade composer and performer ..Michael Werner Gallery said ,Van Vliet was one of the most original recording artists of his time and was a complex and influential figure in the visual and performing arts . His masterpiece is considered to be Trout Mask Replica. His music at first did not connect with the general public but the first releases with the Magic Band received positive reviews with music connoisseurs. His musical notes combined peculiar tones with music that had a blues, jazz feel , psychedelia and a blend of other art style. Frank Zappa , a former high school classmate who he had a close creative friendship with ,helped him progress his style toward redefining popular music .
Other artists that have been inspired and influenced by his talent are Red Hot Chili Peppers,The White Strips , Tom Waits, Nick Cave and Franz Ferdinand Oasis.When he retired he devoted himself to painting and drawing creating lush paintings .Earlier this month at the Michael Werner Gallery his painting was on sale for $40,000.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.