Legendary Texas blues drummer "Uncle John" Turner, Unc to those who loved him, died Thursday, July 26th, in Austin, Texas from complications related to hepatitis C. He was 62 years old.

Born in Port Arthur, Texas, Uncle John was a childhood friend and bandmate of Johnny Winter. While playing drums with Winter in 1968, Turner convinced him to try a full-blown blues band format and sent for his friend Tommy Shannon to play bass. The trio went on to record three of Johnny Winter's albums: "The Progressive Blues Experiment," "Johnny Winter," and "Second Winter." With fourth member Edgar Winter, they played Woodstock in 1969. After splitting with Johnny Winter in 1970, Unc moved to Austin, where he and Shannon formed Krackerjack, a band featuring a young Stevie Ray Vaughan on guitar. Throughout his long career, Turner played or recorded with many great artists, including B.B. King, Jimi Hendrix, Freddie King, Muddy Waters, and Lightnin' Hopkins.

During the 80's and 90's, Turner continued to shape Austin's blues scene. He was a great friend and mentor to young blues artists in Austin and all over Texas. The man was a teacher to all who would listen to his honest, kind, and humble voice. His spirit will live on forever in those that carry on.

Wednesday night, 8-1-07, at Antones in Austin, Texas his friends came together to celebrate his life and love of music. A sold out house felt his spirit all night long while his friends played to honor and remember this gentle and unpretentious man.

For more infomation on Uncle John Turner and the benefit please visit Uncathon