I am sad to report the death of Dutch Tilders, the Godfather of Australian Blues, who died on the weekend, aged 69, after a battle with cancer.
Dutch played blues in Australia before anyone knew what blues was and kept the faith throughout the 50 years he was a professional musician.
Dutch toured with Brownie McGhee and maintained a firm friendship up until Brownies death. He also toured with Taj Mahal, BB King, John Mayall and Sonny Terry.
He had an amazing influence on all blues musicians in Australia, particularly in Melbourne, where, a bit like Mayall, lots of notable musicians passed through his band. Geoff Achison, Gwyn Ashton and Nick Charles to name a few who enjoyed international success.
Dutch will be sorely missed.
Doc White
