Jerry Miller, the highly respected guitarist and member of Moby Grape, died Saturday in Tacoma, Washington, at the age of 81.
This talented entertainer has been called “the greatest guitarist in the world” by legendary guitarist Eric Clapton and has been ranked among Rolling Stone magazine's “100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time.” varietyHe was beloved as a founding member of Moby Grape. Miller's cause of death has not been made public.
SAN FRANCISCO, USA: Jerry Miller (left) and Peter Lewis (right) perform with Moby Grape at the San Francisco Civic Center Plaza in February 1978. (Photo: Clayton Cole/Redferns) Getty Images
May the great Jerry Miller of Moby Grape rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/VHIzrB6IZL
— Bruce Gorrie (@bsgorrie) July 21, 2024
News of Miller's death Moby Grape Facebook Page.
“Sadly, Jerry Miller passed away last night,” the post read. “Joe and family ask that you all treat them with privacy and respect. Joe has asked that you refrain from calling for the time being. Thank you.”
According to Variety, Miller began performing in the 1950s and played a key role in the formation of Moby Grape in 1966.
Moby Grape guitarist Jerry Miller dies at age 81
Jerry Miller, guitarist and co-founder of the rock band Moby Grape, has passed away at the age of 81. Known for his extraordinary guitar skills, Miller was widely respected and known amongst celebrities in the music industry. pic.twitter.com/kBjc970Ix3
— Psychedelic Jukebox (@60sPsychJukebox) July 22, 2024
UNSPECIFIED – 1 January: (Australian Out) Photo of Moby Grape, posed group portrait, from left: Bob Mosley, Gerry Miller, Don Stevenson, Peter Lewis and Skip Spence (Photo credit: GAB Archive/Redferns) Getty Images
He then formed The Rhythm Dukes and enjoyed great success as a solo artist.
His passion for music and dedication to his craft have made him a mainstay in the entertainment world.
A message from Miller's wife, Jo, captured the essence of his spirit and was shared on the Moby Group Facebook fan page:
“Everyone please fill the universe with Jerry Miller's music. Please do it all day for me and him. And thank you so much,” the note read.
Miller's guitar skills were recognized by many greats in the music industry: according to Variety, he was praised by Stephen Stills, David Crosby, and Taj Mahal, as well as big names like Led Zeppelin's Jimmy Page and Robert Plant, who covered a Moby Grape song during their first rehearsal.
Fans and family continue to pay tribute to the star on social media. (Related article: Legendary Four Tops singer Duke Fakir dies at age 88)
Funeral arrangements have not been made public.
