Joe Lee Wilson: December 22, 1935 - July 17, 2011

Sadly, Joe Lee Wilson passed away on Sunday. He was an inspirational singer, human being and friend who spread a message of peace, love and joy wherever he performed. I'm sure he will be missed by all the musicians who had the good fortune to play with him and the audiences who heard his magnificent voice first hand.

Joe Lee Wilson at kineojazz in 2010 by Yari Fontebasso

Joe Lee's voice was a gift and he accepted it with humility. Here is his prayer of thanks from the song Thoughts of a Season:

To you, I'm extending this special blessing

To include my family and friends, fans and musicians, promoters and organisers, who have helped me throughout my long singing career,

from gospel to blues, from blues to jazz (or perhaps I should say afro-american classical music!).

I thank God the Creator for presenting me with a unique artistic gift

to bring peace and love into every community in every corner of the world

Thank you Jesus. Thank you Jesus.

Amen.

The Guardian has published a lengthy obituary that really does Joe Lee justice. Thank you John Fordham, Val Wilmer and The Guardian.