Stevie Ray Vaughan Cause Of Death Who Is Stevie Ray Vaughan?
Stevie Ray Vaughan became an iconic Texan musician who made an enduring effect in the world of tune throughout the Eighties. Known for his masterful guitar skills, he used his Fender Stratocaster to breathe life into the blues, a style that have been overshadowed by using the rise of pop and MTV. Leading his band, Double Trouble, Vaughan’s expertise caught the attention of famend artists like David Bowie and Eric Clapton. His signature look – a Fender Stratocaster in hand, black cowboy hat on head, and an intensity in his eyes – is still remembered by many fans and fellow musicians.
What Happened to Stevie Ray Vaughan in 1990?
August 1990 was a tragic turning point in the world of music. After performing in a pair of shows supporting Eric Clapton at the Alpine Valley Music Theater in East Troy, Wisconsin, Vaughan boarded a helicopter to return to Chicago. Unfortunately, the helicopter crashed minutes after taking off, claiming the lives of everyone on board, including Vaughan. The event sent shockwaves throughout the music industry, as it lost one of its most promising talents.
Did Stevie Ray Vaughan Predict His Death?
According to photographer Robert Knight, who had known Stevie for several years, Vaughan had hinted at a foreboding feeling during their encounter at Alpine Valley. Vaughan had shared a near-death experience from Switzerland, where an overdose led him to the brink. This incident pushed him towards sobriety. His comment, “I don’t think I have much longer to live,” now feels hauntingly prescient.
How was Stevie Ray Vaughan’s Performance on His Last Night?
Many who witnessed Vaughan’s last performance attest to its brilliance. Eric Clapton, a guitar legend in his own right, expressed that Vaughan was a pure channel through which music flowed. Greg Rzab from the Buddy Guy Band felt that there was a special aura around Vaughan that evening. Even audience members noted an emotional farewell as Vaughan, known for always wearing his Texas black-rimmed hat, removed it and waved it to the crowd before his exit.
What Were the Circumstances of the Helicopter Crash?
The night of the crash was marked by extremely poor visibility. Witnesses recalled a dense fog enveloping the area. The pilot, Jeff Brown, unfamiliar with the terrain of that particular area, took off vertically. Tragically, the helicopter’s rotor blades hit a ski lift cable, causing the chopper to disintegrate and spread aircraft fuel all over the crash site. No explosion occurred, but the force was devastating enough to claim the lives of all on board.
How did the Music Community React to Vaughan’s Death?
The loss of Stevie Ray Vaughan left an indelible mark on the music community. His band members, Chris Layton and Tommy Shannon, were shattered by the news. Fellow musicians, from Bonnie Raitt to ZZ Top, paid their respects at his funeral. The memory of Vaughan’s passion for music, his unparalleled talent, and his commitment to sobriety after facing personal challenges serves as an enduring legacy. He remains an inspiration to aspiring musicians and a legend for fans and fellow artists alike.
