Michael Burks, a local guy who made good on the world blues scene, has passed away on his return from a Europe trip. I don't know a lot of details but he was a helluva good guy, the times i met him he was always nice, incredible cook along with a monster guitarist. he grew up south of Little Rock i think. a couple years ago he along with me and Jolene was invited to an end-of-year jam at the local blues radio station. it was all acoustic and i saw a side of Michael i guess i did not expect. he was as down home and nice on acoustic as anyone i ever played with.
Michael is survived by his wife Bobbie and a child as well. i have no doubt there will be a benefit or two soon to help with funeral expenses, which i am sure we'll be a part of if needed.
"Sad news on Michael "Iron Man" Burks from Bruce Iglauer, Founder and CEO of Alligator Records: Michael "Iron Man" Burks, the great blues guitarist and singer, has died suddenly. He was returning from a successful tour of Europe and collapsed in customs at the Atlanta airport. He was rushed to the hospital but they were unable to revive him. Michael was a sweet man, hugely talented and deeply soulful. I was proud to have him call me his friend.
Michael was well respected in the Blues community and played The Rhythm Room on many occasions. Way to many obits being posted lately.
RIP Michael.....
Last Edited by on May 07, 2012 3:31 AM
Here is some footage I took of Michael Burks and his band in La Katrina dance club in La Paz, Mexico last fall (Legendary Rhythm and Blues Cruise #17, October 2011)
What a bummer. I met Michael while I was working as a stage hand at a blues festival. He was indeed a nice guy. Several older bluesmen have passed away recently but Michael was relatively young.
Last Edited by on May 07, 2012 8:00 AM
54 or 55. i would guess his eating habits were maybe not the best since he loved down home cooking. it was no uncommon to see him at his rv in helena or cdale laying out a table for whoever happened by.
he also pushed himself harder than he should have from what i've been told. when a gig was over he was packed and rolling like right now instead of getting some r&r. the little bit of road work i've done has put me down for a couple of days after a road trip usually. it takes not only a tough person but also working smart to succeed. ---------- http://www.reverbnation.com/jawboneandjolene
this is very sad news, I had the pleasure of seeing Micheal Burks play at a local blues festival here in Ireland last september. purchased a CD after the show and he signed it for me, I spoke to him for a few minutes and he seemed like a really nice guy. I read an article about his shows in Europe just the other day and was wondering if he was going to play here again... my condolences go to his family.
Last Edited by on May 08, 2012 2:55 AM
