LONDON: Wilko Johnson, guitarist for 1970s pub-rock band Dr Feelgood and influencer of Britain’s punk rock movement, has died aged 75.
A statement on Johnson’s Twitter page said the musician had passed away at home on Monday. No further details were given.
Johnson was diagnosed with late-stage pancreatic cancer in early 2013 and said he was embarking on a farewell tour. A year later, he underwent major surgery and was declared cancer-free.
Born in Canvey Island, Essex, Johnson found fame with Dr Feelgood, whose driving R&B rock and his choppy guitar playing influenced English punk. He later joined Ian Drury & The Blockheads in 1980 before concentrating on his Wilko Johnson Band.
Johnson was also an actor, portraying executioner Ilyn Payne in hit fantasy drama “Game of Thrones”.