Alvin Lee, the guitarist and singer of Ten Years After, has died. A statement posted on his official website read: “With great sadness we have to announce that Alvin unexpectedly passed away early this morning after unforseen complications following a routine surgical procedure. We have lost a wonderful and much loved father and companion, the world has lost a truly great and gifted musician.”

Appearing at the original Woodstock Festival, Lee’s performance was captured on film in the documentary of the festival and his playing helped catapult him into stardom. They have had twelve albums on the Billboard 200, and are best known for their tracks “I’m Going Home”, “Hear Me Calling”, “I’d Love to Change the World” and “Love Like a Man”.

In 1973 Lee recorded the critically acclaimed solo album On The Road To Freedom wich featured guests stars George Harrison, Steve Winwood, Ronnie Wood, and Mick Fleetwood. Detroit radio legend Jim Johnson said, “So sorry to hear of the passing of one of the guitar greats. His music with Ten Years After has been a staple and favorite on the playlists of every station I have worked for the past 40 years.”

– Roberto Boschian, WOMC Detroit