Guitar Gear Forum

Was just listening to the Minutemen and reflecting on what that band would have / could have evolved into had D. Boon not died. I guess if you aren't really into punk music, you might not know who D was, but he brought an element of the blues, funk, and style to their music. Combined with some heavy and political lyrics, he really helped set the Minutemen apart from their peers. At the same time, I feel like most of Mike Watt's catalog came from his dealing with his best friend's death, which obviously never would have existed had Mike not had that inspiration.



Obviously Hendrix and Dime were also hitting their peak when they passed. Who were some of your guitar heroes that were taken just as they were getting started?

one of my long time heros! i am one of many of d boons soldier children

one of my favorite guitarists that passed too soon is larissa strickland from the laughing hyenas. such a cool and unique player! i love her totally textural and anti-flash way of approaching guitar- she only added what songs needed.

also, jason noble-- another endless wellspring of creativity and a good dude.

and mark linkous!

Though he's still alive, I'd choose Jason Becker. That dude was already so beyond next level - it would be amazing to see what else he'd have accomplished had he never been hit with ALS

newholland wrote:one of my long time heros! i am one of many of d boons soldier children

one of my favorite guitarists that passed too soon is larissa strickland from the laughing hyenas. such a cool and unique player! i love her totally textural and anti-flash way of approaching guitar- she only added what songs needed.

also, jason noble-- another endless wellspring of creativity and a good dude.

and mark linkous!

Sparklehorse! Thanks for this reminder, NH. Haven't listened to that band in years, but that ends today. I will also check out Laughing Hyenas and Rodan.

Devin wrote:Though he's still alive, I'd choose Jason Becker. That dude was already so beyond next level - it would be amazing to see what else he'd have accomplished had he never been hit with ALS

Oh damn, that is tragic. Never knew about this, I only knew he was a shredder with that signature Carvin/Keisel. To be that good and have it stripped away from you...

itchyfingers wrote:Oh damn, that is tragic. Never knew about this, I only knew he was a shredder with that signature Carvin/Keisel. To be that good and have it stripped away from you...

Yup, he lost the ability to play guitar due to ALS in his early 20's too. Now he's practically totally paralyzed but still manages to communicate with eye movements


You should def check out the "Not Dead Yet" documentary about him. It's sad and inspiring af at the same time

Thanks Devin, will do.

Although, I didn't like anything he did after Zoot Allures, I was always hopeful. Frank Zappa was only 53 when he passed.