John Lee Hooker Dies at 83

Celebrated blues artist John Lee Hooker died in his sleep Thursday morning at his home near San Francisco. He was 83.

“This was totally unexpected. He had the audience on their feet three or four times on Saturday night,” Hooker’s Manager Rick Bates told Reuters. “He enjoyed performing and he found joy in sharing his music with people.”

The Mississippi native and 1991 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee spread his soulful, distinct style of blues across the world during the ’50s and ’60s, influencing many musicians including The Rolling Stones, The Animals, The Yardbirds and Van Morrison.

Hooker was relatively healthy and had been experiencing no serious ailments before his death.

Hooker is survived by 8 children, a nephew, 19 grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren.

Originally Published June 23, 2001