Wendell Holmes, a co-founder of the Holmes Brothers blues band who served as its vocalist, guitarist, pianist and songwriter, died on June 19 at his home in Rosedale, Md. The cause was complications due to pulmonary hypertension. Earlier in the week, Holmes had been moved into hospice care. He was 71. His death was confirmed by the band’s label, Alligator Records.
According to Alligator’s press release, Wendell Holmes had retired from touring earlier this year when he was first diagnosed. Holmes Brothers drummer Willie “Popsy” Dixon died on January 9 of complications from cancer. Brother and bassist Sherman Holmes continues to carry on the Holmes Brothers legacy with the Sherman Holmes Project.
