Ian Anderson has issued an emotional statement following the death of Jethro Tull founding member Mick Abrahams. He shared his tribute on Instagram.
The Jethro Tull frontman expressed his sadness and reflected on Abrahams’s crucial role in the band’s early formation.
“It is with great sadness that we learned yesterday of the passing of Jethro Tull founding member Mick Abrahams,” Anderson said. “Mick was vitally important to the early Tull formation out of the ashes of The John Evan Band and McGregor’s Engine, the blues band he formed with Clive Bunker in the Luton/Dunstable area.”
Anderson concluded his tribute by extending condolences to those closest to the late guitarist.
“We all offer our condolences to Mick’s family and close friends, who can feel justifiably proud of his achievements and musical legacy,” he continued.
Abrahams played a pivotal role in Jethro Tull’s earliest incarnation. He helped to establish the foundation that would launch the band to international success.
American Songwriter reported that Abrahams teamed with Anderson, bassist Glenn Cornick and drummer Clive Bunker to form Jethro Tull in 1967. He played on the group’s 1968 debut album, This Was, to which he also contributed songwriting. His guitar work helped define the band’s early blues-influenced sound before their evolution into progressive rock.
However, Abrahams’s time with Jethro Tull was brief but impactful. Ultimate Classic Rock noted that he left Jethro Tull later in 1968 after disagreements over musical direction. He went on to form Blodwyn Pig, whose first two albums, Ahead Rings Out (1969) and Getting to This (1970), both reached the UK Top 10.
Following his departure from Jethro Tull, Abrahams continued his musical journey despite facing significant health challenges in later years. American Songwriter revealed that he stopped performing live after suffering a stroke and other health issues. He continued to record, with his last album, Revived!, released in 2015.
The guitarist’s health struggles were well-documented. Noise11 documented that he suffered a heart attack in 2009. He later disclosed a diagnosis of Ménière’s disease, which further limited his ability to perform in later years. Despite these challenges, Abrahams remained dedicated to his craft and musical legacy until the end.
