“Spider” John Koerner was a blues guitarist, singer and songwriter who enjoyed a six-decade career and ably mentored a young Bob Dylan.
- Died: May 18, 2024 (Who else died on May 18?)
- Details of death: Died in Minneapolis of bile duct cancer at the age of 85.
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John Koerner’s legacy
Unlike many musicians, “Spider” John Koerner did not start playing at an early age. In fact, he was an aeronautical engineering major at the University of Minnesota when he first picked up the guitar. He quickly took to it, however, leaving college to play and tour.
Koerner fully established himself in Minnesota, where his collaborations with artists like Dave Ray, Tony Glover, and Willie Murphy helped him become a regional fixture in the folk and blues scenes. When Bob Dylan first went to Minneapolis, Koerner was the first musician he met and connected with, and the elder proved to be a big early influence on the now-legendary singer-songwriter.
Although Koerner’s work, including his seven solo albums, influenced future artists like David Bowie (1947–2016), Beck, and Bonnie Raitt – who even covered his song, “I Ain’t Blue,” on her debut album – Koerner himself remained a relatively low-key Minneapolis figure, a local legend who was not well known nationally. He was a fixture in area clubs, earning himself induction into the Minnesota Music Academy Hall of Fame and the Minnesota Blues Hall of Fame. In 2005, a documentary, “Been There … Done That,” was made about his life and work.
Tributes to John Koerner
Full obituary: Minneapolis Star Tribune
