Yesterday Was The Anniversary Of Stevie Ray Vaughn's Death

It's been 15 years since Stevie Ray Vaughn and four other musicians affiliated with Eric Clapton, died in a tragic helicopter crash. He was only 35 years old. Stevie was one of the most incredible blues guitarists to ever live, in my opinion. I remember when he died and how disappointed I was that such a great talent had been taken from us at such a young age. Although he was sober when he died, Stevie Ray Vaughn had almost died at an earlier date from alcoholism and drug addiction. I remember him saying in an interview that he used to mix whiskey and cocaine in his coffee everyday. The whiskey and cocaine had eaten the inside of his stomach so badly that he actually began coughing up blood. Thankfully, Stevie was able to find peace and get clean. He was probably in the best shape he had ever been in at the time of his death. I guess that is what makes me so mad about his dying like he did. I mean, the guy finally gets it together and then he dies in a stupid helicopter crash. What a tragedy.

By the way, the inspiration from this post came from the fact that our local classic rock station (105.9 The Rock), which has a blues show on Sunday night, is doing a tribute to Stevie right now. I hope they play his version of the Jimi Hendrix tune Little Wing. Stevie's version, which does not include any lyrics, is so awesome that it actually brings tears to my eyes. I can't even begin to explain how good that song makes me feel.

Update: They just played Little Wing. Oh yeah!