Paul McCartney reflects on his relationship with early “mentor” John Mayall
Paul McCartney has reflected on his relationship with John Mayall, whom he describes as a “lovely, down to earth man” and “great” blues pioneer.
The 90-year-old musician passed away at his family home in California last Monday (22 July), surrounded by his loved ones.
Remembering the late Mayall in a heartfelt statement, McCartney said he found it easy to relate to the man as they were both from the North of England.
READ MORE: “Thank you for rescuing me from oblivion”: Eric Clapton pays emotional tribute to John Mayall
“John Mayall, the great British blues pioneer, has died aged 90 and I thought a couple of words from me would be appropriate,” the Beatles star wrote on Instagram.
“In the 1960’s we would meet at one of the late-night music clubs and often go back to his house where he had a huge and glorious collection of records. During these moments he became a mentor and would educate me on a lot of the blues guitarists playing at the time.
“I would lounge back in the armchair, and he would play tracks by people like BB King, Buddy Guy, Albert King and many other great players. He would then play me tracks by Eric Clapton who was later in his band The Bluesbreakers. The more he played the more I could see the links between all these great guitarists. Besides being very entertaining, it was a great education, noticing the similarities between these stunning players.
He continued: “John was a lovely, down to earth man from the North of England so we found it easy to relate to each other and I will always thank him for his love of music, the blues and his willingness to turn others on to what he knew.
“Thanks John, love you!”
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Meanwhile, Mick Jagger has also paid tribute to the late Mayall, highlighting his role in “ushering in a new era for the Stones” following the death of guitarist Brian Jones.
“So sad to hear of John Mayall’s passing,” the singer wrote. “He was a great pioneer of British blues and had a wonderful eye for talented young musicians, including Mick Taylor – who he recommended to me after Brian Jones died – ushering in a new era for the Stones.”
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