Chicago-based guitarist Michael Burke passed away on Sunday, 6th May, after collapsing in customs at the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. He was taken to a nearby hospital but failed to regain consciousness.
Burke was born in 1957 in Milwaukee and came from a musical background, with both his father and grandfather having enjoyed local fame for their talents. Burke formed his first band while still in his teens and also performed with other artists in the area. His debut album, The Inside Out, was released in 1997 and he immediately gained the respect of his peers, earning the moniker Iron Man.
Burke signed with Alligator Records in 2001 and released several critically acclaimed albums through the label. Alligator owner Bruce Iglauer broke the news of Burke’s death via Facebook, “Michael was a sweet man, hugely talented and deeply soulful. I was proud to have him call me his friend.” Joe Bonamassa, acclaimed blues guitarist and member of Black Country Communion, paid his respect to Burke on Twitter; “RIP one of the best and the nicest guys around. So sad to hear this tragic news.”
|
||||||||
3
comments