Dr Feelgood founder Wilko Johnson has been diagnosed with terminal cancer.
Wilko Johnson is one of British music's true hidden heroes. An absolute one off, his unmistakeable guitar style and in-your-face attitude gave Dr Feelgood a potency which helped to inspire multiple UK punk acts.
Remaining an inspirational force, Wilko Johnson continues to tour and often talks about his time in Dr Feelgood and the history of his home in Canvey Island.
An all round gent, it brings us great sadness to report that the guitarist has now been diagnosed with terminal cancer.
A statement from Wilko Johnson's management:
I am very sad to announce that Wilko has recently been diagnosed with terminal cancer of the pancreas. He has chosen not to receive any chemotherapy.
He is currently in good spirits, is not yet suffering any physical effects and can expect to enjoy at least another few months of reasonable health and activity.
He has just set off on a trip to Japan; on his return we plan to complete a new CD, make a short tour of France, then give a series of farewell gigs in the UK. There is also a live DVD in the pipeline, filmed on the last UK tour. Wilko wishes to offer his sincere thanks for all the support he has had over his long career, from those who have worked with him to, above all, those devoted fans and admirers who have attended his live gigs, bought his recordings and generally made his life such an extraordinarily full and eventful experience.
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Very sad news. Here's an inspirational clip from the early years of Dr Feelgood.
