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JJ Cale Obituary
The performer and producer's manager Mike Kappus has told The Associated Press that the architect of the Tulsa Sound died Friday night of a heart attack at Scripps Hospital in La Jolla, Calif.
Born John Weldon Cale in Oklahoma City, he cut a wide path through 1970s rock 'n' roll, influencing some of the most famous musicians at the time with songs that were laid back and mellow, yet imbued with a driving groove.
Neil Young, Mark Knopfler and Bryan Ferry are among his many fans in the music world.
A former member of the Grand Ole Opry touring company, Cale never rose to the level of success of his admirers, but his fingerprints could be heard all over the genre in the 1970s, and his music remains influential.
His album with Eric Clapton "The Road to Escondido" won a Grammy for Best Contemporary Blues Album in 2007.
In 2006, Cale told the AP in an interview "I'd probably be selling shoes today if it wasn't for Eric."
Clapton also recorded Cale's "Cocaine," ''Travelin' Light" and "I'll Make Love To You Anytime."
Artists including Santana, The Allman Brothers and Johnny Cash have all covered Cale's songs.
On his website, Cale was asked if it bothers him that "contemporaries and critics list him amongst legends, and fans might love his songs yet not even know his name?"
"No, it doesn't bother me," he said with a laugh. "What's really nice is when you get a check in the mail."
MESFIN FEKADU, AP Music Writer
Copyright © 2013 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
142 Entries
Tony Spirito
November 23, 2024
Hi - this is Tony Spirito. I just wanted to stop by here and tell you that I recently heard your name through my father. He said you died a couple years ago but it doesn't even feel like it. I enjoyed listening to you sing "Ride The River" - it made me wanna embark on an immersive journey unlike any other. Blessings to you.
Evan Hansen
April 16, 2024
RIP GOD BLESS
Brian Glubok
November 10, 2019
Speak softly, and write great songs - my "takeaway" from the life of J.J Cale
Harry Simpson
July 26, 2018
Godspeed JJ, and thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
How you can show support
richard leonard
June 28, 2018
wont be the same without him
Ralph Billick
December 10, 2017
Another legend gone. I will miss you greatly. Thank you JJ Cale , thank you!
sharon gagon
August 4, 2017
I always love his music and style
Benjamin Aben
June 21, 2017
I'm much too late for condolences,but still feel I have to express my feelings about the world feeling a bit more lonely without such a great man and musician.
JJ Cale was and for me is a moment of rest, a painting of memories.
I got Okie and Troubadour as the first music carriers in a time when you did not own much and music was a wealth.
I turn his music daily and could not do without it, it's the only music you can play at any time, under any circumstance and in any mood.
It never bothers and in times of stress it puts you with 2 legs on the ground.
A Dutch poem suggests: ... and forever will the forests sing..this also applies to JJ Cales music.
I will carry him my whole life with me.
Lynne Barnett
September 11, 2016
I was reading an article written about John and at the end, the writer said "thanks for the music with no expiration date". Your music will live forever and I so enjoy listening to it on a daily basis. Rest easy. Thoughts to Christine. Hope you're doing ok.
Lynne
March 8, 2015
JJ was a inspiration to many who copied his talent
Rupert Lenz
February 11, 2015
JJ's music has always been a source of well being and good vibes and whenever I'm feeling unwell it's lifting my mood, so when the message of his passing came, it was actually he himself who gave me comfort
- a rare treasure.
I'm sure that for his family and friends the personal absence of a treasure like him is very hard to cope with
and my heart goes out to especially Christine... I know I'm late, but, dearest condolences to all of you who miss him.
Amongst too many great songs to mention,
"I did not make this ol' world, I'm just livin' here too" became one of my favourite lines ever.
Sadly, I've never had the chance to see JJ perform in concert,
there was no one like him and there will never be.
But I always said that his best albums were those on which he worked together with Audie Ashworth, and listening to the two of them, reunited in a better place, is now a prospect to look forward to...
LOVE & PEACE,
Roopie
July 28, 2014
great songwriter, great musician
ex-atlanta constitution-journal pop music writer now retired russ devault
July 26, 2014
play great upstairs keep the breeze moving ;god bless you/////// joe Malone oh.
W.J. Wood
July 17, 2014
One of the highlights of my life...meeting J.J. Cale and Gatemouth Brown together backstage at House of Blues New Orleans in June, 2004, the night the CD "To Tulsa and Back" was released. Roll On J.J. Cale. Thanks for so many great memories.
July 6, 2014
Such a great musician and a great loss to the music community. Thanks to Eric Clapton for his Album of appreciation to JJ out this month. RIP
Stefan schumacher
June 28, 2014
Almost a year now. RIP you great man. What some superb music came from you. Thanks.
Jesse Carr
June 16, 2014
ROLL ON JJ WHERE EVER YOU ARE THANKS FOR THE MUSIC !!!!!!!!!!!
Mic K
January 25, 2014
JJ- I cannot express enough thanks for the lasting gifts you gave. Rest now and play with the others that you'll meet on the other side. Until we meet again, where we will all play in the great concert venue. Much thanks-
Dottie
January 15, 2014
A comment on the Guestbook just hit home with me,it was that John's work was "The Soundtrack of our lives"for those who loved his music oh how true!I also believe that to truly appreciate and admire all of his music you had to have genuine "soul",those with this have a quality that often includes empathy to all living creatures.I know that "JJ"loved animals and that only endears him to me more as a great human.
xx
Dottie Pennington
January 14, 2014
I was 16 when I first heard a track from Naturally in my local record shop in England(UK)that was it,I bought every album(as far as I know),"converted" other people on the way.John,your albums are the only ones I genuinely like all of.Your unique talent,music,voice and band stay with me through everything.I now live in Montana,my Detroit Michigan born husband now knows more about you than just "Crazy Mama"and is another convert and lover of your music.
Thank you
Suzie Chelsea
October 24, 2013
Dear Brother,
As an Oklahoma woman in NYC, your music continually defined my True North. No dragon flies and natural sounds, no problem. City buzz and bling had no allure since I knew soul and could spin it at home on so many of your albums.
I loved meeting you, but there's really nothing more intimate than having someone's energy, creative, rhythmic, sonic, sensitive, lyric, well-produced, articulated, polished by years of presentation, and so smoothly shared with us all but to me, you have been a bridge between what's real and important and everything else. (well, my big brother set me up to know what's what....)
When you meet my Grandmother in Heaven, please tell her, I'm turning out OK! Mom thinks I should send thank you notes, but this level of thank you is not in her lexicon. Nature taught me lots about how to recognize shine.
Much, MUCH love and respect for all times,
Suzie
Dina
October 4, 2013
thank you for holding my hand and telling me stories I'll never forget
Starbound
Jack Korpela
September 20, 2013
John your music changed Everything for me.
Its subtle-its complex-its driving-its always in the pocket. You helped me so much while I was getting into the recording side of things (what you do to vocals and how you do it is amazing to me) Your guitar playing made me think twice about- what to play/when to play,Truly a marvel John.
I was Lucky enough to see you perform twice in one Amazing weekend back in 09' @ Mc Cabes and in Solana Beach and I thank you for those shows.
Everything you put out truly is golden my friend.
I miss you already
Easy,
Jack K.
Dean McClain
August 23, 2013
I remember exactly where I was when I heard Crazy Mama the first time. Your music has been with me ever since. Thank you JJ. Bless you Christine.
Adrian Capra
August 22, 2013
Thank you JJ for being such a beautiful part of my life.
Roll on brother & may you now find rest.
AMANDA HUME-BENBOW
August 18, 2013
JJ CALE IS NOW AN ANGEL IN HEAVEN,SINGING...HIS UNIQUE STYLE OF MUSIC LIVES ON! THANKS FOR THE COLLECTION OF MUSIC OVER THE YEARS, IT WILL ALWAYS REMAIN IN MINE. A TRUE LEGACY...
August 15, 2013
"...When I get to Heaven, first thing I'll do, I'll grab my horn and call Old Blue..."
August 15, 2013
"the ending lines of mama don't is the coolest thing i ever heard." - Kai, Germany.
wendy clark
August 12, 2013
So sorry he is gone but his music lives on.
Andrew
August 11, 2013
JJ Cale was one of the coolest guys in music. RIP.
jean cox
August 11, 2013
R.I.P. JJ SUCH WOUNDERFUL MUSIC, WE WILL BE PLAYING YOUR CD FOREVER.X
shaun cox
August 11, 2013
jj you were the greatest guitarman of all.totally unique laid back sweet voice and guitar licks.no words describe how great were.always miss you hope one day to hear you in heaven love to Christine god bless
Brad Pearson
August 11, 2013
JJ,R.I.P. Your music inspired(millions),and your musical brilliance,made fans of millions more, here in OZ.(YOU)were the epitome,of artists who became legends,in their own laid back style,and(1)of the,"favoured few".Created your(own) sound,that became your signature,(a master of music making).You were loved and I,will miss you(deeply).Want/would love to play in the style you did!May you live on in your music,(forever).R.I.P. Brad Pearson.
Sander Bressers
August 10, 2013
Rest in peace, J.J. Cale, the man who inspired me to play the guitar, every day I play one song made by you and every time it fills my heart with peace and joy, hope to meet you in the afterlife for a jam. God bless you.
August 7, 2013
GodSpeed to JJ....Listening to my demise. Hilton Head Island, SC
Pedro Bretes
August 6, 2013
Thanks J for making the music of my life
Kieran O'Mahony
August 6, 2013
A giant,everything he put down was perfection,genuine beautiful,class.Listen to the beautiful layers in each of his songs & you realise that this was an extremely clever musician.He has left a catalogue of music that has & will always stand up to anything.I consider it an absolute honour to have had his music come my way,God Love Mr Cale,RIP,you won't be forgotten in my prayers,
Kieran O'Mahony,Co.Clare.Ireland
Mary Cay G
August 4, 2013
From Cajun Country sitting at Turtle's bar on the Atchafalaya Basin. Just drank a toast to a legend. We don't know anyone around here who hasn't heard of him. If there is a "Rock and Roll Heaven" it's on now!
August 3, 2013
I first heard JJ Cale in 1971?in my local record shop near Heathrow Airport England.Loved the album(Naturally),bought it and almost every bit of his music ever since.A fan for over 40 yrs now living in Montana and until recently dreaming of a quiet,laid back tour around here....
A true totally talented unique individual,cant imagine the loss to Christine and those who really knew him and played (and enjoyed)playing with him....)Getting old and losing those you love and/or admire is crap!whats next?
jos and gale heuvelink
August 2, 2013
Such a big loss for the music and personal.
My wife and i always played his first album in the beginnning of our relationship
Played call me the breeze a thousand times.
We will miss him dearlyl
We will keepon planning his songs
May he rest in peace
And thank you for all the good times.
August 2, 2013
Thank you very much JJ! I fell in love with you in 1977 when I fell in love with my husband who had a cassette full of your wonderful songs. We shall miss your voice but we shall be eternally grateful for that wonderful week-end in Dallas, Texas a few years ago organised for the CROSSROADS festival! Devoted fan from the UK: Brigitte & Graham
Vickie Bartley
August 2, 2013
A true musical genius who will be missed. RIP.
Jan
August 1, 2013
Thank you so much J.J. Cale for the wonderful music and feelings you have given us. Rest in peace. Condolences to family and friends. Jan from Holland
August 1, 2013
I saw him live only a few times, but each and every time he was amazing. I have been a fan for over forty years and I will miss him like a brother.
Larry White
Lockport IL.
July 31, 2013
Your songs became my music. I'm so glad to have found you so very many years ago...Escondido, California
July 31, 2013
Thank you JJ for the wonderful music you left us. I will listen to it until the day I die.
Marco Corda
July 31, 2013
Your music was, is, and will always be the soundtrack to many people's life, including mine. Thank you for all the great songs you created. I will always be thinking of you, when there is a breeze blowin' down the road...
Steve Hunt
July 31, 2013
I seen him two times on stage, he made the young and old get up and boogie, what fun,I will miss you, JJ.
Richard Mansfield
July 31, 2013
my gnostic brother died ..Im so sad
andi
July 31, 2013
we never met - but we had great times together, thanks so much!
Scott Korek
July 31, 2013
You are gone, though I feel every remnant of your being through the music you left us.
rose meli
July 30, 2013
Even death can not not quiet the beautiful music of this soul. Thank you for all that you gave this world.
Rose Meli
Christian Hulbaek
July 30, 2013
So sad. Your music has been a part of my life for so many years.Always loved your songs and your magic guitar style. Thank you. R.I.P J.J Cale
John W
July 30, 2013
Loved passing time "back in the day" at Magicians Theater in Tulsa. I shed a tear when I heard the news...
Carol Welliver
July 30, 2013
JJ, you certainly are in heaven making music for God and the angels. My condolences to your family, friends and fans. Humble as you were, you lit up the world. Your presence here on earth will be missed but your gift to us of your music will live on. Thank You.
Luciano Soave
July 29, 2013
I am breathless, your music will always be with me.
christopher mcpeck
July 29, 2013
long live rock n roll ,, with the words and the music you have written ,had changed my life to become what im today ,, and guitar player who just like to make people smile ,, on my honor i will play a few of your songs this sunday at the smallest bar in north carolina , the last resort on carolina beach nc, from 5-7 may god open the gates to rock heaven and you can write with john lennon and all the others up there, god bless you JJ CALE AND LET YOUR MUSIC LIVE ON !!!
Elaine S
July 29, 2013
I'm sad beyond words. JJ, you are one of my all time favorites, I'll never forget your shows in Knoxville and Nashville in 2002. Christine, I pray that good memories will help comfort you in the coming days, weeks. He will never be forgotten....
Rene Van eijmeren
July 29, 2013
Been listening to you for the last 40 years , feels like i lost my favourite uncle , will spread your music , thank you and rip.
B
July 29, 2013
What a craftsman!
My condolences to his family.
Nancy Anderson
July 29, 2013
While your music was nothing short of perfection your heart and gentle quiet soul will be what I remember most. You could not have been nicer or more kind and I thank you for your help. I thank you for the times in OK. You will be deeply missed.
Tami B
July 29, 2013
Thank you sooooooo much for the awesome music. I was a wee bit after your time, being a child of hippies-turned-govt-employees, but I grew up in a house filled with Skynard, Clapton, and more. Your music is written in my memories and make up part of the soundtrack of my life. Again, thanks, and prayers around the family and friends of this modern artist!
July 29, 2013
Its never easy losing a Loved one ,however our Creator can provide us the strength and courage needed to cope with our loss My sincere condolence
1 Corinthians 1:3
July 29, 2013
With deepest sympathy to the Cale family during your time of grief...God is for you a refuge and strength, A help that is there to be found during difficult times...May God provide you with peace and comfort to endure the days ahead...(Psalm 62:8).
July 29, 2013
R.I.P. my Brother...
Ken Brandon
July 29, 2013
We lost a goodie!
Joe LaPaglia
July 29, 2013
What at tremendous talent!He will be remembered through the wonderful music he has left for us to be part of the soundtracks of our lives.
Terry Reilly
July 29, 2013
Irreplaceable.
Mike Jones
July 29, 2013
Rest In Peace John. I really enjoy listening to your great songs and music for many years since my teenage days.
Back in 1974 I bought your LP Album Naturally. I was 18 years old in a Record Store In Glenelg, Adelaide Australia and in the background was playing " After Midnight" so I was instantly sold on the spot and bought many more of your records over the years.
In everyday life you was a great man, down to earth and a genuine and decent guy.
You will always be remembered and respected. Rest In Peace John.
I will continue to enjoy your music for the remainder of my life.
Petrina Bell
July 29, 2013
My heart and prayers are with the family of Mr.Cale. "May the God of all comfort , comfort you in this time of sorrow."
RH McKenzie
July 28, 2013
Often covered but never matched.
Inspired and an inspiration.
Missed but not forgotten.
Thank you JJ Cale "Troubador"
James Robinson
July 28, 2013
Thank you for sharing your music with me John,
You remain in my memory.
Scott Chamberland
July 28, 2013
Rest in Peace
G. Core
July 28, 2013
Thank you for the four decades of the highs and lows of life with your music, no matter the country, continent, boat, train or plane. Your music was there to be enjoyed by all. Rest in peace you will always be remembered.
michelle plakas-kaiser
July 28, 2013
rip
Jim W.
July 28, 2013
J.J.,
Thanx 4 the GREAT tunes. This fan remembers the smiles and reflection your music brought to me. You are indeed 1 of a kind!
Rest In Peace
Noel Hancock
July 28, 2013
aaaaahhhhh ...what an immense loss ...I played your first LP release IMMEDIATELY on air (Naturally).. as a FM female disc jockey .... fell in love with your lyrics, your rhythms, your unmistakeable driving groove .... what an immense talent we have lost .... Thank God the music is forever Love and warmest hugs to the Cale family .... Noel (Winston GA)
July 28, 2013
One of the best!! And it is a shame that he never was viewed as a great in the critics eyes but never the less when they turned there radio on they heard his songs by Clapton,Skynard. Rest in peace JJ!!
Colleena B.
July 28, 2013
The Cale family will be in our thoughts & prayers. May the God of all comfort be with those mourning at this time.
Edward McShane
July 28, 2013
J. J. Cale's music is timeless. The musician passes; the music can never die.
July 28, 2013
YOU will be missed greatly. Rest in peace.
Terry P. Forest, VA
Mariela
July 28, 2013
Gifted writer! Loved all his songs and I know EC knew a long time ago had a diamond in the rough! Thanks for your contribution to my life and so many others! RIP my friend..
Gailie Hartman
July 28, 2013
Namaste~
July 28, 2013
I true artist. Thank you for all you have given us. We will be listening for centuries.
Juan Azpeitia
July 28, 2013
Gracias por ser "The Sensitive Kind".
david
July 28, 2013
Thanks for all of the great music.
CAW
July 28, 2013
Thanks for sharing your great gift of music.
S Fields
July 28, 2013
Oh I already miss you...RIP my dear friend. Thank you for all the wonderful Music...God Speed...oxox
Becca Helen
July 28, 2013
So sorry to learn of JJ's passing. Heartfelt sympathy to his family and friends. Thanks for your contribution to the music of a generation. Godspeed, Mr. Cale.
John Everitt
July 28, 2013
One of the greats, feel like i've lost a friend, RIP JJ
Abby
July 28, 2013
"Magnolia" is one of my favorite songs of all times....since I was a teenager..... His soulful voice still gives me shivers....
Rick Vogel
July 28, 2013
JJ was an inspiration to me musically and personally. His music was as laid back as he was. His music got me through good times and also the bad. Rest In Peace Troubadour, you are badly missed.
I SAW THAT..................
Jimmy Carothers
July 28, 2013
Although obscurity draped over you in crowds JJ Cale, you rocked our world.
laro
July 28, 2013
The "cajun Moon" has set, but the music plays on. Gonna miss you JJ.
July 28, 2013
Thank you for your gift...Rest in peace ~
July 28, 2013
Shocked and saddened by this. My ex and I listened to JJ for hours and miles on the road. 'Crazy Mama' my fave. Rest In Peace. Your music will live on forever.
Jeff Hahn
July 28, 2013
Great writer,performer and inspiration.Really liked his guitar sound and voice......he will be missed......Rest in peace
Marc
July 28, 2013
I've been a JJ Cale fan since I started listening to music 40 years ago. He was one of the best, both as a song writer and a performer. RIP JJ Cale!
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