Forgotten Fretmasters #9 - Alan Wilson

[@jimmyvivino337]

I love what you are doing. I am currently playing with Fito in Canned Heat with Dale Spaulding on harp, guitar and vocals and Rick Reed on bass. In 1968 I was a13 year old kid mesmerized by Alan Wilson, Mike Bloomfield and Johnny Winter. They pointed the way backwards to their heroes and I went down that glorious rabbit hole of influences where I still dwell today. 53 years later I get to play and sing Alan’s music and never take his genius for granted Thank you Jimmy Vivino (Burbank Ca) 2021

[@TheGuitarHistorian]

Hey, Jimmy! I’ve seen the videos you guys are doing Owl, Bear, Harvey, Henry and the Mole justice! You guys do a great job. Drop me a line if you ever get out to the east coast I’m in Philly. Not sure how much you guys get out here but I’d love to sit down with you guys someday. Thanks for watching I’m glad you enjoyed!

[@TheNextGoogification]

Some story! I was equally struck by the group, and I'm the same age as you. Unfortunately I never really found the urge to really follow up music. But on the verge of doing it every year since. Hopefully the music gods will smile on me. So many things to do in life, still!! 66 years Young

[@milosledge6843]

I was at your Cantara show. It was erie, and amazing ❤️

[@KayEl58]

Thank you for keeping his music alive 💖🎶

[@jbeall1]

Z

[@kellykma71]

Alan Wilson was an amazing person and so much more than a gifted musician. He communicated with trees better than he did with people. He believed the trees could talk to him when he wrapped his arms around them. He read botany encyclopedias like they were novels and eventually learned the name of every tree in the world. His pockets were always filled with leaves, pinecones, plants and soil samples.

[@PMichael100]

A Druid.

[@michaelhauser6440]

Gaaaaaaaaaaayyyyyyyyyy Jk trees are cool

[@AlterMann57]

I was at Woodstock 1969, and I can remember watching and hearing Canned Heat in their set. First of all I was one of the kids at the event, I was taken there by my older cousins who bought tickets. I was 12 years of age, we had to park our VW along the highway and walk about 5 miles to the festival. Along the hike I met some other kids my age, some were even younger than me! When we reached the farm my cousins asked me to remember where we were because we were going to meet up at the end of the festival. I was on my own for 3 days! When Canned Heat were on stage I was sitting with my friends and we were all thirsty as hell and hungry. We saw a bottle of soda being passed along, so we all took a big sip. When Canned Heat were jamming I stood up and was reaching out to catch the music that was floating around me. I didn't realise that I was tripping, but that was my introduction to acid. By the time Canned Heat got around to playing their finale "On The Road Again" I felt as though I was on stage with them. Their music has always been like hearing an old friend, and losing Blind Al so young was such a tragedy.

[@divalivingston1664]

What a great story and adventure. So funny that you were slipped LSD without knowing it and fortunately had a good experience rather than a "bummer trip" as was known to happen. Catching the music that was floating around you!

[@sydsmusicpluspage]

Good stuff. Thanks for your story. Love it👍

[@kevinbrooks1104]

Damn 12 years old and tripping balls

[@AlterMann57]

@@kevinbrooks1104 Thanks, it was a blast.

[@stevemcelmury4618]

Fabulous story... thank you... great times!

[@debbieanne7962]

I'm a little young Australian that found Canned Heat by the magic of KZbin. I think they were a fantastic band. As a mother of an autistic son I can see this in Alan Wilson. A quiet genius who couldn't relate to the hectic pace of this world. He did seem to take the world's problems to heart. His death in my opinion was accidental. So sad. Then Bob Hite also passed away at a young age due to an overdose. Tomorrow isn't promised to anyone. They did leave this world with wonderful music to warm the hearts of us that are still here to appreciate it

[@anfrankogezamartincic1161]

I feel you,i have a young cousin who is a functional super inteligent autist. He just started going to school,he alreeady knows to write,read,mathemathics and stuff (flags of all countries,main cities etc.) but he got no feel for others, seems school does good for him (only 13 kids in class, we are a small village in Croatia), he kinda likes it,which wonders me because of his hipperactivity, he's CANNED TORNADO. My dear Damian, i wish you all the luck in this cruel world

[@paulcooper-n2v]

He tryed to kill himself before according to what the band had said.

[@2011littlejohn1]

I had heard that Alan disappeared into the forest and was found dead but thanks for telling the true story. I always liked his playing and how much such people influenced British players. I believe Mike Bloomfield was another sad but talented man with a strange demise as was Danny Whitton. The world is a better place for such people it's sad that they themselves are so unhappy with how the world is.

[@mikesalt8248]

I have just returned to UK from Australia before I left I gave all my music to my Son. This week at 76 years young I just bought Hooker"n Heat double cd, the best! I hope some kids keep this thing going for the future without all the drug crap of course !

[@1994g0]

Yes he did.A few times.As Fito has pointed out, it`s most likely he committed suicide.@@paulcooper-n2v

[@jrfranz13]

What a wonderful tribute to a truly talented and gentle being. Today, 7/04/2023, would have been his 80th birthday. Rest in peace Alan.

[@winstonrocco1981]

Canned heat didn’t get the recognition they deserved. Their Woodstock performance was epic .

[@kensalazar5066]

Well when od the following year, it kinda takes the winds out the sail..ashame, who knows what could have been......

[@sdgakatbk]

Canned Heat's performance is my favorite from Woodstock. They were a great band.

[@jimbanda]

Man they were mega world wide, what more can you want, geeze Blind Owl died in 1970 and three more of them in a few years. Wilson was the heart of their two biggest hits, sadly he died. But anyway they were appreciated and revered , they just died out with nobody to drive on their legacy.

[@kmurphy739]

Underrated bc they covered instead of writing their own hits.

[@mikenyny755]

The same can be said of a large number of British blues bands of the mid-late 60s.

[@Ken-wg4zy]

A touching tribute to Alan Wilson- well done. A forest walk always grounds me and helps to alleviate the blues.

[@WarKid-ut8mx]

Happy birthday Alan you would have been 79 today Rest In Peace your music changed the world in such a small time.

[@chrisdrake447]

You have totally delivered in this episode. A beautifully poignant tribute to a truly gifted soul. Wonderful work, thank you.

[@bradl2448]

Amen to that.

[@ckmiller81]

VERY well done episode and the 1st one I have watched. I am now a subscriber.

[@g-woonk]

The forgotten member of the 27club. And frankly one of the most underrated musicians (particularly blues, obviously) of all tine.

[@jimmiescott7353]

He passed away 15 days before Jimi Hendrix

[@disprogreavette8545]

Ron "Pigpen" McKernan, founding member of the Grateful Dead is another seemingly forgotten member. He was very close with Janet Joplin too on and off the stage.

[@truckerkevthepaidtourist]

@@disprogreavette8545 same with Pete Ham of bad finger

[@neilnoble1771]

How would you compare Alan Wilson vs Gary Moore ?

[@TheGuitarHistorian]

Very different. Gary Moore was more of a virtuoso soloist, Wilson was a more raw and simplistic player. He played for the band and emulated the early early blues styles while i believe Moore did a lot to actually update the blues sound.

[@DogbadTV]

Thanks for doing this. He was a super nice guy - I remember him taking time to hang out with a bunch of us kids in '68 0r '69 after a Canned Heat show, just to talk about music. A real Gentle Man in the true sense. It still makes me sad to think about his death that way.

[@kmg3733]

What did you guys talk about with him?

[@denniswinters3096]

Thank you so much for keeping Alan's name and musical genius alive.

[@rayglasscock9667]

I’m late on this sadly didn’t know until a few months ago that Alan blind owl Wilson , and the bear were both dead, I made a move in 1973 were I lost my love of music 🎶 I stopped listening and going to concerts can’t explain. Canned heat used to listen to them probably 1968 ish , but they were not everyone’s cup of tea like a lot of the music I like, thanks for the info even though it brings a tear to my heart and a low slow in take of breath I, I’m going to try to find every single live music 🎶 that shows Alan’s sweetness, his voice guitar style and the Bear bouncing around the stage, Why can’t we just stop in a time we love 68-73 was my favourite 15-20 years old now 70 not so good

[@stevestudley4060]

Alan Wilson, Gods gift to us. The good die young.

[@majik_man]

I've listened to just about everything from canned heat. The one thing that i really think about most when i think about Allan Wilson is the Hooker & Heat songs. I just love John Lee talking about Wilson which he does quite a bit before songs. He is amazed how he can keep perfect time with him on harmonica and says "you musta really listen to my records alot" it's the dialogue that really brings Alan Wilson's spirit alive.

[@stackolee4480]

Hear, hear !!!!

[@cre8lite11]

I loved him then in the 60s and still do. But this makes me cry because the rest of us are all dropping like flies now. Reminiscent of modern day tragedies like Ian Curtis, I wished I could’ve reached out and mothered them. We had things in common. 76 now, I never saw canned heat live but a lot of other bands like the doors, the seeds, Jefferson airplane, country Joe, blind faith, etc, Thank you for this tragic overdue doc! Even though it makes me cry…

[@vernwallen4246]

Had Wilson lived he would have been one of the BEST blues guitarist on the planet.I make this statement without any slight on any guitarist.Remember our veterans this weekend.🗽🗽🗽🗽

[@xxzzyyxxzzyy]

I go back to the orange album (1967) with Canned Heat. Played the grooves off of it. In 1968 I went to my high school class's graduation party in a place called Mike Malkan's in the lower East Side of Manhattan. After getting pretty drunk, a few of us began wandering around, and I happened to see an advertisement for Canned Heat at the Cafe Au Go Go. I told my classmates we had to go, and chartered a cab for us. That was the only time I ever saw the classic lineup-- Wilson, Vestine, Taylor, Hite and de la Parra. Wilson was wearing a battered old flier's helmet. I never talked to the guys about what they thought of the show, but no matter, it was the best live show I'd ever seen. In a little more than a year I was in Vietnam, having failed in my first try at college. I came back and began to live the working man's life to which I was destined. I did make a record, in 1973, but the oil embargo hit like a coronavirus on my musical hopes. I never made another record for 27 years, though I did make a few demos. In 1974 I was working masonry supply west of Boston. Every day, in addition to my other hard labor, I would service masons who would come in for supplies. One of those masons was Al Wilson's father, who lived in Belmont. He was still taking his son's death very hard, as at that point it was thought to have been suicide. I pretty much kept the conversation to how much I had admired Al (as I was also a harp player, slide guitarist and singer) and Canned Heat. 11 years later I was living in Eugene, Oregon, having finally gotten serious about college. I was earning a Bachelor's degree in Journalism and History at Duck U, the University of Oregon, having already spent considerable time learning about investigation. I was a veteran leftist radical environmentalist. I was also woodshedding in the blues, getting to play with better and better musicians in Eugene. Sometime in 1985 Henry Vestine, "The Sunflower" of Canned Heat, its lead guitarist, came to town. Henry did not always play with Canned Heat by that time. During his time there James T (James Thornberry), of Eugene I think, was the slide and harp player with Canned Heat at least some of that time. Henry and I got along famously, of course. I wrote a good profile on him for the Eugene Daily Emerald, the student newspaper. Real trivia: there is a comet named after Henry Vestine's father, an astronomer. Henry was not drugging by that point, but he drank a lot. He was my roommate for 3 months or so in 1985, and he would start every day with a G.I.Q. (40 ounces, a Giant Imperial Quart) of Old English 800, or Colt 45, or Mickey's. Malt liquors. Ugh, but to each his own. Sunday nights, when he was in town, he would play in my group, which I called Church of the Blues, at the legendary Old Taylor's. 34 years later I called my 2019 CD release Church of the Blues, after that long ago meeting with another Canned Heat musician. There was to be one more encounter. By 2006, I had quit my last truck driving job and had become a touring musician, on the strength of my Handy Award nomination for 2004. "Best Emerging Artist," they call it. I was already 55 years old. My band, The Workers, and I were booked to play a small blues festival in Springfield, Nebraska. Up we drove from Oklahoma, and quite quickly the weather turned bad, and then worse, heavy rain mixed with sleet. When we got to the Soaring Wings Winery, which was holding the festival, it was a puddle and getting deeper. There may have been a hundred fans huddled in the winery (it's a lovely hillside site with good wine. Next time we played there there were more than 1000 people). We were very excited, because we were listed as co-headliners along with-- yep, Canned Heat! Naturally, I was most excited of all. At that time bassist Larry "the Mole" Taylor was still alive and active, but the drummer, Fito de la Parra, was the only original member left, and the leader, of Canned Heat. We played our set, and then Canned Heat took the stage. 49 years since I first heard their music, I sat in with Canned Heat! I bought Fito's book about Canned Heat, and I would sure like to have another copy, as that one disappeared somewhere. The next day he even gave me a joint! Honorable smoking, that. Happy birthday, Blind Owl. I know we woulda been friends, if you'd just had a little more time, and maybe, as one or two suggest here, better medical help. I knew the real story well at one point; it was a cerebral hemhorrage, probably from an auto accident Wilson had. Don't forget to Boogie. I am Watermelon Slim

[@xxzzyyxxzzyy]

Gonna do On the Road Again tonight in Al's honor....

[@daviddavies2945]

Alan's brilliant slide riff on "Let's Work Together" is a timeless gem. Thank you for your most moving and informative tribute.

[@coled2048]

Listen to the backing guitar riff of "Time Was". Had to be an influence for Jon Spenser Blues Explosion!

[@electrochubb]

^ totally

[@bartschwartz7217]

Drugs is a form Of self medicating when u are not under a doctors care

[@cre8lite11]

@@bartschwartz7217 Also, drugs mimic the spiritual experience which we are all trying to get to.

[@cre8lite11]

I used to play slide guitar. He was so brilliant. Did he play with a glass or a metal slide? Never saw them live although I did meet Bonnie Raitt simply because she found out i used to play slide. She uses glass, I use metal

[@repdale]

I'm so glad you've uploaded this. I'm a die hard Alan Wilson fan. He always makes me cry. Long live The Blind Owl!

[@matthewcaldwell1384]

It’s wild that I missed the connection with Alan because I am a collector of leaves ,twigs , driftwood anything natural, spending time in nature I find peace .I love so deeply many varieties of music ,canned heat being one of my favorite powerfully intense compositions .ThankYou so much for this story it helps fill in my place in the human saga.Peace Love and Understanding…..

[@timdahr5609]

Allen Wilson is one of best guitarist of all time, a tragedy that he died at 27, even worse, never mentioned on the 27 club. he obviously had a lot more to give, today's doctors could have provided Allen with much needed help.

[@blakenorman4822]

I was just doing the math thinking that, born 43 woodstock 69, powerful stuff

[@winstonrocco1981]

He was one of the best guitarist ever

[@sfbayareagirl]

I always mention him in the 27 club. I think people are just less aware of his story.

[@toreckman8899]

@@sfbayareagirl so do I. Blind Owl lives forever

[@waynesilverman3048]

I know he was more known then some other lesser known band members who as well as him also died at 27

[@michaelulbricht9438]

Alan "Blind Owl" Wilson was a gifted guitarist, great harp player, and distinct vocalist.

[@neilnoble1771]

Great harmonica player too.

[@michaelulbricht9438]

@@neilnoble1771Neil, often in Blues vernacular a harmonica is referred to as a harp. Al was one of the best on the harp(harmonica). Take care! Peace

[@artprince9163]

@@neilnoble1771 harp = harmonica

[@neilnoble1771]

@@michaelulbricht9438 I didn't know that. Thanks. I like Alan Wilson.

[@neilnoble1771]

@@artprince9163 Ahhhh. I didn't know that. Thankyou.

[@rogerdodger5415]

I lost 3 of my favorites that year. Jimi, Duane Allman, and Alan Wilson. I saw Canned Heat and was in awe of the Owl’s solo. Drugs ruin lives. Drugs end lives.

[@stripervince1]

But they sure were fun back in the day

[@stephenfiore9960]

Agree with both of you. Best not to do them if you can

[@petermcculloch4933]

Alan suffered from depression.

[@scruples671]

Pharmaceuticals sure are the worst offenders .

[@savageone3702]

Duane died in '71 from a motorcycle accident, not drugs.

[@23coburn]

Thank you sir. Saw them several times in the 60's. I hope Al's hanging happy with the Ancestors all these years. Bless his good soul.

[@njmcd]

The Blind 🦉 has been inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame as a Legendary Artist

[@bonzomcduffy8336]

It took me about 51 years to find out about Blind Owl but I bought his biography and I have most of Canned Heats CDs now which I play over and over. I wish Alan could have lived longer he had soooooooooooooooooooooo much more to play.

[@rebeccadavis8200]

Thanks for reading Alan’s bio :)

[@bonzomcduffy8336]

@@rebeccadavis8200 I was very happy that someone did and the book if very much appreciated.

[@bonzomcduffy8336]

@@rebeccadavis8200 I need to Arlington Massachusetts on Friday. I wish there was a memorial for Blind Owl.

[@ScottSwess]

Ditto😢

[@bonzomcduffy8336]

@@rebeccadavis8200 I'm re-reading it and I went and visited his house on Wollaston because I had to pick up my typewriter on Mass Ave.

[@thomasspoerli4659]

Here I am once again. Excuse me for my english, I usually speak french. Ich saw CH live in 1974 in Lausanne, Vaud County, Switzerland. Montreux is in this county, too. After the show, I jumped on the stage and went to the " loges" . ( the small backstage rooms ). Had a handshake with Bob Hite, Harvey Mandel, Henry Vestine, Fito de la Parra and Richard Hite. They gave me autographs too.... In my first message, one error.... my elder brother BOUGHT ( and not " buyed") the single. It was " On the road again" . Hope you' ll enjoy the story. Hello from the Old World...

[@georgestreicher252]

Great video. The best concert I ever went to was in the winter of 68 at Masonic Temple Auditorium in Detroit. I had front row center seats, a hot chick on my arm, and some strong L. The first band was Spirit and they opened with All the Same. It sounded like a fly saucer landing as the sound traveled from the back of the auditorium to the front. I'm not into drum solos but the drummer the stepfather of Randy California, brought the house down when he had the mic in the bass drum turned up and was doing drum rolls on the floor, incredible. There was also the one hit wonder Bubble Puppy with Hot Smoke and Sassafras. And of course, Canned Heat, incredible. As I had a friend drop us off at the Auditorium, I didn't have a ride home. The manager for Canned Heat saw us at the bus stop and invited us to a party with the band. Incredibly, I turned him down. The next day in the papers was an article that the band got busted. I had dodged a bullet. By the way, my hot chick date was only 16 which could have been an additional problem. Ah the sixties, I should write a book.

[@geoffreyschecht6477]

I “discovered” Canned Heat in 1968 after moving to Portland, OR. I also “discovered” John Fahey around that same time. It was years later (after Fahey died) that I found out about their friendship and Fahey being the person who brought Alan to LA. I still remember listening to KINK-FM in Portland on the day his death was announced in 1970. It was about seven years after that I met a girl in college who I’d eventually marry in early 1979. While we were going together in Stockton, CA; one day we were driving around when a Canned Heat song came on the radio. I told Tracey that I’d always been a big Canned Heat fan, to which she replied, “Oh yeah…Alan was my cousin”. As the old saying goes, you could have knocked me over with a feather at that point. So in early 1979, I became a 1st cousin by marriage to a musician I greatly admired yet would never be able to meet. I did meet Alan’s Mom, Shirley, in 1980 as well as his youngest half-sister Heidi. I also corresponded by mail with Alan’s delightful sister, Darrell, over the years until she passed away some time ago. She had a few stories about Alan I wish I could remember. Our middle son, Cliff, became a Canned Heat fan at an early age and is a pretty decent guitarist, too (a lot better than I ever was, anyway). We occasionally wondered whatever became of Alan’s gold-top Les Paul. Darrell mentioned that Bob Hite kept it for a while after Alan died but it was sold or traded and it’s whereabouts became a mystery. Good to see that it’s still around, battered but presumably in a collection somewhere. It sure produced some timeless music.

[@dananorth895]

Funny...All the synchronicities in life. Thanks for the story.

[@deathinlasvegas393]

Great story.

[@lastofthe4horsemen279]

Great tale. Truth is stranger than fiction

[@petermcculloch4933]

Wow

[@keithpalmer1998]

I became a fan of the Heat when "On the Road Again" became a hit. Nearly 60 yrs. later, I'm still a fan.My favorite memory is a family vacation in the Penokee Mts. of No. Michigan . We turned on a station from Thunder Bay that had a local guy playing blues & rock records on the air. He put on "Fried Hockey Boogie." The sound came blasting across Lake Superior, and it was just great! The Bear introduced all the boys in the band , and they each did their thing. Wow! Talk about amazing stuff! That album "Boogie with Canned Heat" & "Hooker 'n' Heat" will always be at the top of my playlist. Bear's signoff will always stick with me ,"And don't forget to boogie. Boogie!"

[@d.f5081]

Blind Owl’s harp solo in Boogie Chillen 2 will never be outdone.

[@camilo1455]

Hooker said "I don't know how he keep up with me, but he do." Hooker loved those guys.

[@bluesmonkey4463]

I agree Man .........Absolutely Amazing !

[@Helo_rides_for_commies]

No kidding. Hooker was stoked. Great jam all around. The way he plays with the rhythm for such a long piece and when his time comes whips out that incredible jam.

[@camilo1455]

@@Helo_rides_for_commies you guys give me no choice but to run it again!

[@bkfleming4740]

John Lee said he was the best.

[@ericgiova1663]

An authentic "forgotten fretmaster". Painfully forgotten I should say.

[@camilo1455]

Painfully not forgotten. Missed. I can only imagine what we lost.

[@randalclarke5487]

You're right Eric

[@njmcd]

Not forgotten!! Al was and still is the heart & soul of CH.

[@fossilmatic]

There are some good resources on the web about Al Wilson, many obliquely referring to his social inadequacies as a cause of considerable personal anxiety fo him. While he was probably shy and perhaps on the spectrum, he was able to articulate a considerable intellect and champion the blues legends he formed functional relationships with. He may have been an early champion of nature and communing with it, but it appears his lack of “social success” was at least partly due to not washing and having B.O. as a result. Regardless of his personal unhappiness he was a brilliant guitarist, harmonica player, singer and musician in the blues idiom. He understood earlier than most that the key to the blues was feel, not developing ever-increasing technique, as the basis of expressive power. Watch the Woodstock footage to see how much he listened to they band and responded in his playing compared with other guitarists who simply “blew”over the top. He has secured a loyal fan base despite dying 50 years ago as a result.

[@KayEl58]

I'm with you on that. If you listen to him being interviewed he's very verbal and clearly at ease. Also an informative and entertaining speaker. Many of his problems could have stemmed from his extreme shyness (I know what that's like). We'll never know for sure. As for finding the right woman, he was just in the wrong business for that. I read somewhere that there are songs on which he produces notes that the harmonica he's using shouldn't be able to produce and people have wondered if he quickly and briefly, switched to a harp in another key which seems the obvious solution. He didn't. He took the cover off the harp and weighted one of the reeds. The man was a genius. While it's true that Canned Heat, unlike other 60's bands, 'went back to basics' and produced some of my favourite blues, their development into new and more complex/experimental music happened within a few years as Alan Wilson took them on the road to Parthenogenisis. One wonders where he might have gone next.

[@zacharyjohnson6453]

I'm on the Spectrum, so you're right on the money about everything you're saying 🖒

[@karenbougher1219]

he needed to meet someone who would really love and help him

[@cre8lite11]

I’m glad you mentioned this topic about feeling versus technique. It is so true. I play very simply but have a lot of soul. However he was no slouch with his technique either. I love him then and I still do. Although I lived in California during the 60s/70s I never saw them live, just a lot of other bands like the doors, the seeds, blind faith, Steve Miller, Jefferson Airplane,country Joe etc. etc.

[@dalenincehelser5747]

Much of his social anxiety came from his near blindness. Even with glasses he could barely see causing some awkward situations. For a young guy in thier days, that could cause severe anxiety.

[@mindriot69]

I grew up in Venice, Ca and in 1978 when the second Hooker & Heat album was recorded at the Fox Venice Theater I was a local kid who asked if I could help move some equipment because some of the roadies were off getting high or something… I became friendly with Bob Hite. I loved the stories he had to tell… And then there was his record collection…. He had some great stories about the eagerly days of the band. I’d see him around all the time… and the night he died (April 1981) I was at the Palomino because Bob helped me get in. I was a high school senior and he gave me tickets and told the people at the door that I was with him. I wasn’t around when he got the H but all hell broke loose between sets when he went into the coma. Such a terrible and depressing night. Last note… for years afterwards people would go up to Hite’s house and party there as well as what was believed to be the spot where Alan Wilson died. Sadly I never got to see Canned Heat with Alan. Thanks for doing another great and well informed video. Wilson was/ is a genius and sadly has been greatly overlooked… and I agree 100%. Today he’d be considered on the Autism spectrum. Sadly back then things like that were dismissed as weakness, etc. #RockOn ✌🏽

[@KayEl58]

Thanks for sharing this story. It sounds typical of Bob Hite (according to everything I've read about him) and his extraordinarily close relationship with fans. He had a great, bluesy voice and a charismatic stage personality. So sad the way he died.

[@lamper2]

I saw them with Al here in Northeastern Pa at an Army Depot which had rock acts! Do you know if his record collection exists somewhere as a unit or was it broken up and sold or stolen?

[@mindriot69]

@@lamper2 It was such a huge record collection. As the 70s wore on and the band wasn’t generating as much money as they once did and as the drug taking become heavier.. Bob sold bits of his collection here and there. He was close to being broke when he died. But he still had the bulk of his record collection. Then after he died his brother RIchard sold some of the collection to get money to buy drugs, etc. Part was sold off through his wife… Canned Heat’s drummer Fito & Belgian DJ Dr Boogie (who is a noted Canned Heat collector… He owns Alan Wilson’s Les Paul Gold top) also have a god portion of the record collection and Dr Boogie has licensed and released a collection of some of the songs Hite owned as Rarities From the Bob Hite Vaults. ✌🏽

[@rapidrhinoplumbing-monrovi3269]

Hi Richard ,I remember Bob, Alan, Henry and all the guys. I used to see them at The Ash Grove and the Blue Law in Torrance,,,i used to visit them back stage . They gave me good advice and were very nice people. I miss The Heat.

[@arlenesheffield1136]

Thanks for a up close and personal look at this great band

[@christophersmith2737]

Great video about a beautiful person and great musician. Thanks.

[@michaelward9880]

As the father of an autistic young man, I find Alan Wilson's story even more heartbreaking than before since it's always been my understanding that he suffered from insomnia and used reds to get sleep. I too always thought he died from accidental overdose. Your assessment of him of possibly being autistic and suffering from the normal social anxieties that are a part of the condition brings a whole new perspective on his life and death. RIP Alan Wilson and Bob Hite. Canned Heat will always be in my musical memory.

[@mikefannon6994]

I hope your son is able to live a happy, fulfilling life. Back 50 years ago, autism and other disorders went undiagnosed. My best friend Jimmy was dyslexic, had difficulty reading. Made it through high school, couldn't handle college, had to make a living with manual jobs. Many problems with alcohol & drugs that were likely due to mental problems. Who knows how many homeless people today suffer this way.

[@michaelward9880]

@@mikefannon6994 Thank you, sir. He just finished his freshman year with a little difficulty, not much. His teachers all like him and see a lot of potential in him. Like most autistic people, he just needs to find his niche in life and then it's off to the races! We had him late in life, but he has been a blessing. I didn't know until very recently that Larry Taylor had died as well. RIP Larry "Mole" Taylor. Thanks again for your kindness.

[@m-l7127]

Thank you for an excellent , in-depth and thoughtful conversation on Alan Wilson and Canned Heat. You’re an excellent teacher!

[@josephbailey1995]

Our band played with Canned Heat when I was in high school. They were super nice guys and Bob Hite gave us a lot good info. However Allen was shy and didn’t communicate at all, but what a great show they played that night. RIP

[@WarKid-ut8mx]

Dude that is amazing do you have any pictures with you and Allan or canned Heat?

[@mavjimbo]

Wow,great story.have meet Fito,Harvey and Larry.

[@mavjimbo]

The band never disappoints. Fito autographed a few items for me.real nice dude.

[@WarKid-ut8mx]

@@mavjimbo damn your lucky dude where’d you meet them?

[@mavjimbo]

@@WarKid-ut8mx back in 2011 the three of them started playing together again. Saw them many many times over the next few years and Fito especially was available after shows to chat with .

[@richq11]

I didn't know Alan all that well. I worked for his father's construction company and was friends with his sister Sharon who married a friend of mine. I did get to jam with him when I was about 15, around 1960. He was an amazing guitarist even in his teenage years.

[@tattyshoesshigure5731]

Al ‘Blind Owl’ Wilson was an amazingly gifted musician & vocalist… someone who once you’d heard his superb guitar playing you could never forget! It was really so sad that he passed away as a young man, the world lost a wonderfully talented musician & a beautiful, gentle soul the day Al died.

[@mikeburnitt2604]

Excellent work. Thanks from the UK.

[@DSBenevides]

Paul “Koss” Kossoff deserves an episode !

[@TheGuitarHistorian]

He’s coming next few episodes!

[@SJKLR99]

He invented that lean back lead position Rossington esq

[@panarchpete5637]

@@TheGuitarHistorian thank you…

[@roygoad2870]

@@TheGuitarHistorian I hope you do an episode on Randy California from Spirit, he nearly toured with Jimi Hendrix but his parents said he was too young, also he died in a tragic accident!

[@donaldmaxwell261]

Absolutely and a nod to you for mentioning Paul.. I don't know how Paul could lay back against his amp and be able to hear anything.. But he was a killer axe master..

[@icfury]

I really liked the way he played Slide Guitar in “Rollin and Tumblin”! It was my favorite version of the song!

[@geoffbaker7722]

rollin and tumblin

[@mickwaller5198]

I saw Canned Heat open for B.B. King at roller skating rink in Alexandria VA in the late 60s. Wow!

[@erwildersr]

Alexandria Roller ring was the best place for concerts in 1967-1969. I went Ft Hunt High School

[@mickwaller5198]

@@erwildersr I was class of 68, T.C. Williams

[@cooper1415]

What a fn memory !!!

[@robinmills5643]

When you look at how much Alan Wilson and Canned Heat influenced music in such a short period of time, ya gotta wonder what they would have accomplished to this day, if Alan had been still been alive...no doubt..true genius 👏

[@urbancattle]

Alan Wilson; one of my very first blues influences. A great talent. Thanks for assembling this video.

[@kerrygraham3544]

Exceptionally presented. Knowing what we know now there's a good chance he would still be with us today.

[@WisconsinWanderer]

I listen to Going up the Country over and over I throughly loved this band and “blind owl”

[@frankbullitt4556]

Alan Wilson mesmerized the Woodstock crowd.

[@arlenesheffield1136]

C. Heat was playing the Forum, with Little Richard as opening act. I looked beside me and there stood Alan W. intently watching Richard's. I loved Canned Heat and wish I would have gone over to him and told him so.

[@Rokonroller]

Thankyou for getting such a comprehensive string of facts together!

[@Jordan-hi8ph]

Love Canned Heat! This is a great episode, Alan was such an amazing musician

[@brianlacher8402]

Wow, what a great message at the end. I cannot tell you how thankful I am to see someone speak frankly about mental illness and autism. And thank you for making a very nice video about my hero.

[@kmg3733]

Though I’m not sure he was autistic. Many in his family don’t agree, from what I’ve read, with that diagnosis. There’s a lot about his life out there that’s based upon what people said after he died that doesn’t match up with letters he wrote, interviews he did, etc. If you look at the conflicting accounts of just his death - you see the contradictions and misinformation. It’s sad because once something is said-people believe it.

[@psychemusik]

Delivered with great empathy and understanding for the mentaly affected. Thanks!

[@djinnmagik4817]

Alan had a real unique voice. You can really tell that he loved that nature when you watch some of his live performances. You can see it in his eyes 🎸😎🌄 Thank you for this video RIP ALAN WILSON

[@bluenetmarketing]

Great video about a great musician. This was my era. The world was upside down back then, just as it is today, all over again. I pray the youth of today stick with normal/traditional beliefs, and reject the perversions forced on them by too many upside down adults in their lives.

[@sealskin2001]

Outstanding episode! Much I never knew about this blues man I greatly admire - especially the Son House rehab project. Tragic early death, but the man had a heart of love.

[@pauljanisch2825]

Stunningly told. You are a fantastic story teller and narrator

[@richpizan8408]

Alan lad. Take your place in the history of rock music. I will for one never forget you and the legendary Canned

[@raymondreid4987]

Nobody has forgotten this man he was great and big influence on me and my brother.

[@mechcavandy986]

I was friends with Bob Hite’s brother, Richard. I went to their house and saw their record collection. Bob had one of the best / biggest record collection I’ve ever seen. They had mint condition Robert Johnson Vocalian 78s still in the dust sleeve. He had thousands of old 78s of obscure artists from the 1920-30s. Richard and Bob traveled the Deep South in the early 60s buying records from juke box companies and citizens’ attics, etc. And they had 10s of thousands of 33 1/3 albums of blues. They had the GOLD Woodstock album and Going Up The Country on the wall too! I agree about the Hooker N Heat album. I bought it when I was 17 or 18. Richard also shared with me about the time he found his brother, Bob, dead OD’ed in their mom’s backyard. Anyway, they did have the most extensive blues record collection I’ve ever seen. And I helped Jim O’Neal load and unload his when he moved to Mississippi. I also worked at The Blues Archives at Ole Miss for a year. BB King donated his record collection to them.

[@TheGuitarHistorian]

I wonder what happened to that collection? Is it still together?

[@steelerspittsburgh875]

I heard Richard sold some to support his own habit, the rest were destroyed in a flood. I read that on the internet ,so l don't know if it's true.

[@thebadterrorists5323]

Excellent choice. Thanks.

[@craigspoor5556]

So glad I found this. RIP blind owl. I'm going to jam some tonight. What a band. This is great. Thanks

[@stevenimeson902]

boogie with canned heat is a must have in any record collection and living the blues is right up there too!

[@beaubrummelmotorizedbicycles]

Blind Owl Wison, RIP, I was devastated when he died, they were my go to band for concerts back in the day in Southern Cal.

[@plev10]

Thank you for this beautiful and moving tribute. It's especially impressive that you can honor the legacy of a musician who probably passed away before you were even born.

[@gradybird3336]

A truly terrible loss of a unique talent. Without knowing him, he seemed to be a gentle soul, ignited by the blues. On a brighter note, I love the nod to Be Bop Deluxe on your wall. Thank you for recognizing them.

[@TheGuitarHistorian]

Take a look at this: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eGe7coSmmpZ2g80

[@patrickflanagan8008]

Still played and loved in my house, and will be as long as I draw breath.

[@harrywix]

What a fantastic post, so informative and well presented. Thank you!!

[@stevenpricela]

Great presentation. Thanks for remembering Alan Wilson and Canned Heat. Viva Topanga Canyon!!!

[@eightapeach2861]

Excellent spotlight on Alan. Great job.

[@troybettles3007]

Always said this was a vastly underrated band, & I’m a big fan of Wilson’s voice. I particularly love high energy acts & the ability to merge the energy with outstanding talent. Canned heat had that ability in spades. RIP Alan Wilson.

[@patrickbuckley344]

I enjoyed that very much! I was aware of them, but I learned a lot from this video- very informative and well rounded! I know appreciate Alan even more- he was a Beautiful Soul- Thank you !

[@mcconlogue1898]

Alan had that touch of genius that you can hear in all of his music.

[@frederickjames5851]

Hi, very cool, Shine on, Thanks.👍🎸✌️

[@Steven-nj8le]

I have been listening to Allen Wilson and CANNED HEAT SINCE 1968. What an Awesome voice and Guitar player!!! The World lost One of the BEST. Rest In Peace BROTHER. ❤❤🎉🎉🎉😅😢😅😢

[@kevinwalsh113]

I was 12, a neighborhood brother of s buddy of mine had Hooked n heat. I heard it, heard Allan's harp solo on boogie chillin #2. Was forever enamored of his sound. Picked up a Harp.... and the album. Wore out the album playing Boogie chillin over and over for a year. I could not figure out Allan's harp playing. I drove my parents nuts. And then I discovered that songs come in keys. I finally landed a D harp, A year of screwing around in "G" I had finally discovered "A" in D cross- harp and feel forever blessed that Alans music led me there. His phrasing and technique will always be without equal to my ears. Soulful.

[@jukejointjack]

I love the heat They are most definitely not forgotten Long as I’m around playing my guitar

[@brianlevine4802]

Former west of Boston,Mass. resident. Mom was born in and had relatives living in Arlington,Mass. Wow! I haven't seen anything honoring him there. I used to drive through Arlington on my way to Somerville.Thanks for this piece. Another homeboy to brag about.

[@luisherrera2193]

Thank you for keeping Al alive. I hope many learn about him.

[@Joshualbm]

What a fantastic and beautifully presented biography of Alan. The details and structure of your narration are very well written and lucidly realized. Nice work.

[@PMichael100]

I was an early Canned Heat fan and knew immediately how special Alan Wilson was. I loved every song he sang.

[@bluesmonkey4463]

LONG LIVE '' CANNED HEAT '' My Favourite Band Of All Time ! Love These Guys I've been Listening To Them For 50 Years and I'm Still Listening ! THANKS SO MUCH FOR ALL THE GREAT MUSIC GUYS ! God Bless You All !

[@penzman]

I was 5. I couldn't understand a word, we spoke French at home. But the sound of it all on the 60's/70's radio, and Wilson's odd falsetto voice and Heat certainly found their place on the good side of history.

[@steveengleman9257]

Excellent video and tribute to Canned Heat and to Alan Wilson! Thank you.

[@glennkemp3680]

Thank you so much for hippin me up to Alan Wilson. His story is beautiful, kinda funny, and tragic. And you told it so well. It needed to be told. Music fans everywhere need to be reminded or even turned on to Alan's playing and his role in Canned Heat. He was far more than just a role player in late 60's rock. Great piece.

[@bluesmonkey4463]

Thank you so much for sharing ! I'm Alan Wilson biggest fan ! The world needs to know the truth ! Thank You !

[@sigmanfloyd7179]

~ I know almost exactly what Alan was going through. Fortunately I am getting help with my struggles. R.I.P. Alan. 😞🙏❤🇨🇦

[@allaufer7994]

RIP Alan (Blind Owl) Wilson...your songs live on

[@bikersoncall]

I often think of the success of ZZ Top and how they are widely held as the coolest Blues band ever, however, I have always felt that Canned Heat was truly the absolute coolest of them all, and never had intentions of being cool,, they just were, they couldn't help it.

[@31416yatoula]

YES ...Yes, yes!

[@jackpashmat2690]

incredible Alan Wilson .. magic singer , harp player , slide guitar... CANNED HEAT whooooooww ( Fito Parra , henry vestine , harvey mandel , bob hite , larry talor .........) GREAT BAND AND MUSICIANS

[@billhorstkamp98]

Thank you for sharing this.. I love Alan ..sensitive kind soul

[@marklavoie8383]

I liked Canned Heat when I was a kid but never knew this. WOW! He had a special voice. Excellent guitar player for sure.

[@HJH413]

So glad to hear Blind Owl getting the attention he deserves. Loved this band since I was a kid. The first 2 CDs I ever owned were "In Utero" and Canned Heat's greatest hits. R.I.P. Alan Wilson.

[@sysmch]

Favorite band growing up. Saw them in 1970 in 9th grade.

[@vincentkosik403]

Great tribute and enjoyed listening about this talented soul

[@martinvenning118]

Excellent piece. I saw Al shortly before he left us. It was at the 100 Club in London at a Arthur “Big Boy” Cruddup gig. He was persuaded to accompany Arthur on harp for a couple of numbers.

[@kmg3733]

I know he played with Son House then.

[@kirkreese2240]

Thank you, 100 times for this. My sentiment is way too much to type. But SINCEREST gratitude!

[@alisyd5876]

I've been doing a deep dive into Jimmy Page. In his interviews he often mentions Canned Heat as being an inspiration for a group doing up country blues authentically. I'd forgotten about Alan Wilson, but will always love his iconic voice and slide guitar. Thank u.

[@sydsmusicpluspage]

Great video. I've watched it 3 times. There are also some great comments on this video. Unlike some videos, the comments on this video are fun, interesting, respectful, and informative. Thanks, Fretmasters and everyone who commented. ❤