Deaths on February 6

Gary Moore, Irish singer-songwriter, guitarist, and producer (b. 1952)

Robert William Gary Moore (4 April 1952 – 6 February 2011) was a highly influential Northern Irish musician, singer, and songwriter, primarily renowned for his exceptional guitar prowess. Throughout his dynamic career, Moore explored an incredibly eclectic range of musical genres, seamlessly transitioning between blues, blues rock, hard rock, heavy metal, and even jazz fusion, showcasing a versatility rarely seen in a single artist.

Inspired by the pioneering blues guitar work of legends like Peter Green of Fleetwood Mac and Eric Clapton, Moore embarked on his professional journey in the late 1960s. His early career saw him join the Irish rock band Skid Row (not to be confused with the American heavy metal band of the same name), with whom he recorded two notable albums, their self-titled debut Skid Row (1970) and 34 Hours (1971).

The Thin Lizzy Years and Phil Lynott Collaboration

After his departure from Skid Row, Moore famously joined the iconic Irish rock band Thin Lizzy. This move reunited him with his former Skid Row bandmate and close friend, the charismatic frontman Phil Lynott. Moore had two distinct stints with Thin Lizzy, first briefly in 1974 following the departure of Eric Bell, and then more significantly from 1978 to 1979, during which he contributed his powerful guitar work to their acclaimed 1979 album, Black Rose: A Rock Legend. His collaboration with Lynott was a cornerstone of his career, yielding some of his most memorable performances.

Solo Breakthrough with "Parisienne Walkways"

Moore officially launched his solo career in the 1970s, steadily building a reputation for his instrumental virtuosity and emotive playing. His breakthrough arrived with the release of "Parisienne Walkways" in 1978, a hauntingly beautiful ballad from his album Back on the Streets. This melodic masterpiece, featuring a poignant vocal performance by Phil Lynott and Moore's iconic, soaring guitar solo, quickly became his signature song, achieving significant chart success in the UK.

What made "Parisienne Walkways" so iconic? The song's enduring appeal lies in its captivating melody, Gary Moore's instantly recognizable guitar tone and vibrato, and the deep emotional resonance of its lyrics and instrumentation, making it a staple of classic rock radio.

The Hard Rock and Heavy Metal Era of the 1980s

The 1980s marked a distinct shift in Moore's musical direction as he delved deeply into hard rock and heavy metal. Albums like Corridors of Power (1982), Victims of the Future (1984), Run for Cover (1985), Wild Frontier (1987), and After the War (1989) showcased his formidable shredding capabilities and powerful vocal delivery. During this period, he solidified his reputation as a guitar hero, commanding international attention with his aggressive yet melodic style.

Triumphant Return to the Blues: Still Got the Blues

In a pivotal career move, Gary Moore returned to his blues roots in 1990 with the release of Still Got the Blues. This album, a masterful fusion of traditional blues with his signature fiery guitar work, became the most commercially successful album of his career, achieving platinum status in multiple countries. It featured collaborations with blues legends such as Albert King, B.B. King, and Albert Collins, lending it undeniable authenticity and appeal. This album not only revitalized his career but also played a significant role in the broader blues revival of the early 1990s.

Which famous blues musicians collaborated with Gary Moore on "Still Got the Blues"? The album featured legendary blues artists including Albert King, B.B. King, and Albert Collins, whose contributions further cemented its status as a modern blues classic.

Later Career and Enduring Legacy

Throughout his later career, Moore continued to innovate and release new music, demonstrating his artistic evolution beyond the confines of a single genre. While he largely remained devoted to the blues, albums like Dark Days in Paradise (1997) showcased his willingness to experiment with more contemporary rock sounds. He frequently collaborated with other renowned artists, further enriching his diverse discography.

Gary Moore tragically passed away on 6 February 2011 from a heart attack while on holiday in Estepona, Spain, leaving behind an immense musical legacy.

A Virtuoso and Influencer

Gary Moore was consistently described as a true guitar virtuoso, admired for his distinctive tone, expressive vibrato, incredible sustain, and a unique blend of technical precision and raw emotion. His playing style, characterized by searing melodic solos and powerful bends, has profoundly influenced countless guitar players across various genres. Renowned musicians such as Joe Bonamassa, Kirk Hammett of Metallica, and John Petrucci have cited Moore as a significant inspiration.

His impact was formally recognized when he was voted as one of the greatest guitarists of all time on prestigious lists compiled by publications like Total Guitar and Louder (formerly Classic Rock Magazine). Irish singer-songwriter Bob Geldof eloquently summarized Moore's contribution, stating that "without question, [Moore] was one of the great Irish bluesmen," highlighting his profound connection to his roots while achieving global acclaim.

The Iconic Peter Green Les Paul and Signature Guitars

For a significant portion of his career, Gary Moore was famously associated with Peter Green's legendary 1959 Gibson Les Paul Standard guitar. This instrument, known for its unique out-of-phase humbucker tone (due to a reversed neck pickup magnet), was initially owned by Green and later acquired by Moore. It became an integral part of Moore's sound, particularly during his blues-oriented periods, and is now owned by Kirk Hammett. This guitar's history adds a fascinating layer to Moore's story, symbolizing a passing of the torch among blues guitar legends.

In recognition of his immense talent and enduring influence, both Gibson and Fender, two of the world's most prestigious guitar manufacturers, honored Gary Moore with several signature model guitars. These instruments allowed fans and aspiring musicians to experience a piece of his legendary tone and playability, cementing his status as a guitar icon.