John Paul Hammond

John Paul Hammond, the acclaimed American blues singer and guitarist, passed away on February 28, 2026, at the age of 83. A towering figure in the blues genre for over six decades, Hammond was celebrated for his distinctive acoustic style, powerful vocals, and masterful harmonica playing. His passing marks the end of an era for a musician who dedicated his life to preserving and innovating the sounds of traditional blues.

Born in New York City on November 13, 1942, Hammond was the son of the legendary record producer and talent scout John H. Hammond. Despite his privileged background, he gravitated towards the raw, authentic sounds of the blues, finding inspiration in artists like Jimmy Reed. He began playing guitar in high school and, after attending Antioch College for a year, chose to leave academia to pursue his passion for music, a path his father also famously took.

Hammond launched his recording career in 1962, releasing his debut album, "John Hammond," in 1963. This album was notable as one of the first blues recordings by a white artist, showcasing his deep immersion in the genre. Throughout the 1960s, he became a fixture in the Greenwich Village music scene, befriending and collaborating with a remarkable array of musicians, including Jimi Hendrix and Eric Clapton, both of whom played in his band for a brief period.

Over his extensive career, Hammond released more than 30 albums, consistently delivering his unique blend of acoustic blues, rock, and barrelhouse styles. While he achieved critical acclaim, his commercial success remained moderate, yet he garnered immense respect from peers such as John Lee Hooker, Duane Allman, and Tom Waits, many of whom contributed to his recordings.

His contributions to music were recognized with numerous accolades. Hammond earned a Grammy Award in 1985 for his performance on the "Blues Explosion" compilation and received multiple Grammy nominations throughout his career. He was also a recipient of eight Blues Music Awards, including Best Acoustic Blues Artist and Best Acoustic Album.

In 2011, John Paul Hammond was rightfully inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame by the Blues Foundation, further solidifying his legacy as a master of the genre. The following year, he was also inducted into the New York Blues Hall of Fame. His work, including hosting the 1991 documentary "The Search for Robert Johnson" and his 2001 album "Wicked Grin," produced by Tom Waits, demonstrated his unwavering commitment to the blues and its enduring power. John P. Hammond leaves behind a profound musical legacy that will continue to inspire generations of blues enthusiasts and musicians.