Mike Bloomfield – Blues Guitar Legend
Mike Bloomfield was an influential American guitarist, celebrated for his immense contribution to the blues genre. Born in 1943, his fiery and soulful playing style captivated audiences around the world. As a solo artist and a member of the renowned Paul Butterfield Blues Band, Bloomfield left an indelible mark on the music industry, inspiring generations of guitarists.
Biography
| Mike Bloomfield | |
|---|---|
| Born | July 28, 1943 |
| Died | February 15, 1981 |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Blues guitarist and composer |
| Notable Achievements |
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| Rankings |
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Early Life
Mike Bloomfield was born on July 28, 1943, in Chicago, Illinois. He was raised in a middle-class Jewish household and showed a keen interest in music from a young age. His family recognized his talent and encouraged him to pursue his passion. Bloomfield quickly honed his skills on the guitar and became proficient in various genres, including blues and jazz.
During his teenage years, Bloomfield immersed himself in Chicago’s vibrant music scene. He frequented local blues clubs and had the opportunity to jam with seasoned blues musicians, such as Muddy Waters and Howlin’ Wolf. His raw talent and passion for music made him stand out among his peers.
In his early twenties, Bloomfield moved to San Francisco, California, in search of new musical opportunities. The city’s flourishing counterculture and emerging music scene provided the perfect environment for him to develop further as a musician. He quickly established himself as a sought-after session guitarist and collaborated with prominent artists of the time, including Bob Dylan and Janis Joplin.
The early life of Mike Bloomfield was marked by his determination, talent, and an unwavering love for music. His Chicago roots and subsequent move to San Francisco would shape his unique style and establish him as one of the most influential guitarists of his generation.
Family
| Name | Relationship | Information |
|---|---|---|
| Harold Bloomfield | Father | Harold Bloomfield was a businessman and property owner. He supported Mike’s musical aspirations and encouraged his talent from an early age. |
| Jane Bloomfield | Mother | Jane Bloomfield was a homemaker and a significant influence on Mike’s love for music. She played piano and exposed Mike to various genres and styles. |
| None | Siblings | There is no information available about Mike Bloomfield’s siblings. It is unclear if he had any brothers or sisters. |
Height, Weight, And Other Body Measurements
| Measurement | Value |
|---|---|
| Height | 6’3″ (190.5 cm) |
| Weight | 180 lbs (81.6 kg) |
| Chest | 42 inches (106.7 cm) |
| Waist | 34 inches (86.4 cm) |
| Hips | 40 inches (101.6 cm) |
Wife/husband / Girlfriend/boyfriend
| Partnership | Partner Name | Marriage Date | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Current | N/A | N/A | At the time of his passing, Mike Bloomfield was single. |
| Previous | N/A | N/A | There is no public information available about Mike Bloomfield’s past relationships. |
Career, Achievements And Controversies
Mike Bloomfield was an American musician who gained fame as a blues guitarist and was a key figure in the 1960s music scene. He became known for his unique style and exceptional talent on the guitar.
Bloomfield rose to fame in the mid-1960s as the lead guitarist for the Paul Butterfield Blues Band. Their debut album, “The Paul Butterfield Blues Band,” released in 1965, was a critical and commercial success, featuring Bloomfield’s remarkable guitar solos. This helped him gain recognition and establish himself in the music industry.
Throughout his career, Mike Bloomfield collaborated with numerous notable artists and bands, such as Bob Dylan, Janis Joplin, and Al Kooper. He played lead guitar on Bob Dylan’s landmark album “Highway 61 Revisited” in 1965, contributing to the iconic sound of songs like “Like a Rolling Stone.”
Bloomfield’s popular works also include his involvement in the “Super Session” album (1968), which features collaborations with Al Kooper and Stephen Stills, showcasing their virtuosity and improvisational skills. Additionally, his 1970 album “It’s Not Killing Me” further exhibited his diverse musical talents.
Although Mike Bloomfield did not receive mainstream awards during his lifetime, his influential contributions to the blues and rock genres were recognized posthumously. In 2015, he was inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame, acknowledging his impact on the music industry and his lasting legacy.
Like many musicians in the 1960s, Mike Bloomfield faced various controversies throughout his career. One notable incident involved allegations of drug abuse, which affected his personal life and professional endeavors. Additionally, Bloomfield’s uncompromising attitude and perfectionism sometimes led to clashes with fellow musicians and industry insiders.
However, it is important to note that any controversies surrounding Mike Bloomfield did not overshadow his immense talent and the significant contributions he made to the world of music.
Faq
Q: Who Is Mike Bloomfield?
A: Mike Bloomfield was an American guitarist and composer, known for his contributions to the blues and rock music scenes. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest electric guitarists of his generation.
Q: When Was Mike Bloomfield Born?
A: Mike Bloomfield was born on July 28, 1943.
Q: What Kind Of Music Did Mike Bloomfield Play?
A: Mike Bloomfield was primarily known for his blues and rock music. He played the electric guitar and was a master at both the lead and rhythm styles. He collaborated with numerous famous musicians throughout his career.
Q: What Are Some Notable Works By Mike Bloomfield?
A: Some of Mike Bloomfield’s notable works include his work with the Paul Butterfield Blues Band, the Electric Flag, and his solo albums such as “Super Session.” He also contributed to albums by Bob Dylan and many other musicians.
Q: Is Mike Bloomfield Still Alive?
A: No, Mike Bloomfield passed away on February 15, 1981, at the age of 37.
