Paul Geremia, a revered American blues musician and acoustic guitarist, passed away on March 14, 2026, at the age of 81. Born on April 21, 1944, in Providence, Rhode Island, Geremia was a third-generation Italian-American who became a profound scholar and practitioner of pre-World War II country blues traditions. His dedication to the acoustic blues, characterized by virtuosic fingerpicking and slide guitar techniques, soulful vocals, and a deep understanding of the genre's history, earned him a distinguished place among blues aficionados and critics alike.

Geremia's musical journey began in his youth, teaching himself harmonica around the age of twelve before picking up the guitar by 1959. His passion for the blues was ignited by seminal recordings and the influential book "The Country Blues" by Sam Charters. This early immersion in the roots of American music shaped his lifelong commitment to preserving and evolving the acoustic blues sound. He eschewed electric instruments throughout his recording career, cleaving steadfastly to a traditional ethic with his acoustic playing.

In 1965, Geremia made the pivotal decision to leave the University of Rhode Island to pursue music professionally, immersing himself in the vibrant folk-blues scenes of Cambridge and Providence. His debut album, "Just Enough," was released by the historic Folkways Records in 1968, marking the beginning of a prolific recording career. Over more than five decades, he released numerous acclaimed albums, blending traditional influences with his own compositions delivered with humor, drama, and technical mastery.

Beyond his recordings, Geremia was known for his extensive touring, which included regular performances across Europe starting in 1989. He also played a significant role in the blues community, notably helping to revitalize the career of blues legend Pink Anderson in 1973 by arranging shows for him. His contributions to the genre were recognized with a Grammy Award nomination in 2002 for his rendition of Fred McDowell's "Get Right Church" on the anthology "Preachin' the Blues: The Music of Mississippi Fred McDowell."

In 2013, Paul Geremia's enduring legacy and profound impact on American music were formally acknowledged with his induction into the Rhode Island Music Hall of Fame. His career, however, was brought to an unfortunate halt in June 2014 when he suffered a severe stroke, which ended his ability to perform. Despite this, his recordings and scholarly approach to the blues continue to serve as a vital link in the preservation and evolution of American acoustic blues.

Paul Geremia leaves behind a rich discography and a profound influence on the acoustic blues landscape. His unwavering dedication to the authentic sounds of the blues, his masterful musicianship, and his soulful interpretations ensured that the traditions he cherished would continue to resonate with audiences for generations to come. He will be remembered as a true original and a national treasure in the world of American roots music.