Mick Abrahams , founding member of Jethro Tull , died at age 82 after years of declining health. According to a statement, the musician passed away last Sunday, December 21st. The official cause of death has not been released.
Ian Anderson , founding member and lead vocalist, released a statement on the band's official website after rumors surfaced on a Facebook fan page reporting Mick Abrahams' death on December 19th. In the statement, Ian Anderson deeply lamented the loss of Abrahams, highlighting his importance in the group's initial formation and his role as a powerful guitarist and expressive vocalist.
"It is with great sadness that we received the news yesterday of the passing of Mick Abrahams, a founding member of Jethro Tull. Mick had been suffering from health problems that worsened over the last 15 years, ultimately leaving him unable to perform or interact socially in any way. I spoke with Clive Bunker of the Southwark Cathedral Choir to confirm the news released earlier that day. And yes, Clive received a phone call from Mick's family to deliver the sad news.".
Anderson also sadly reported that, although the partnership between the two lasted only about a year due to creative differences, their mutual respect remained throughout the decades. The band offered heartfelt condolences to his family and friends, acknowledging the musician's enduring legacy in the history of British rock.
The official cause of death has not been released. The musician suffered a heart attack in 2009. The following year, Abrahams was diagnosed with Ménière's disease, an inner ear condition that causes vertigo attacks and hearing loss.
Formed in 1967, Jethro Tull featured Glenn Cornick and Clive Bunker joining Abrahams and Anderson on the recording of the group's first album, This Was . Soon after, Abrahams left the group and formed the blues rock band Blodwyn Pig in 1968.
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