Alvin Lee
Alvin Lee (born Graham Anthony Barnes; 19 December 1944 – 6 March 2013) was an English guitarist, singer and songwriter, who was best known as the lead vocalist and guitarist of the blues rock band Ten Years After.
This article is about the musical artist. For Alvin Lee the comic book artist, see Alvin Lee (comics). For the literary critic, see Alvin A. Lee.
Alvin Lee
Graham Anthony Barnes
19 December 1944
Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, England
6 March 2013 (aged 68)
Estepona, Spain
- Musician
- singer-songwriter
- record producer
- Vocals
- guitar
1960–2013
Early life[edit]
Lee was born in Nottingham[1] and attended the Margaret Glen-Bott School in Wollaton. He began playing guitar at the age of 13. In 1960, Lee, along with bassist Leo Lyons, formed the core of the band Ten Years After. He was influenced by his parents' collection of jazz and blues records, but it was the advent of rock and roll that sparked his interest.
Death[edit]
Lee died on 6 March 2013 in Spain.[7] He died from "unforeseen complications following a routine surgical procedure" to correct an atrial arrhythmia.[8] He was 68. His former bandmates lamented his death. Leo Lyons called him "the closest thing I had to a brother", while Ric Lee (no relation) said "I don't think it's even sunk in yet as to the reality of his passing". Billboard highlighted such landmark performances as "I'm Going Home" from the Woodstock festival and his 1971 hit single "I'd Love to Change the World".[9]