Date of Birth: December 19, 1944
Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius
Date of Death: March 6, 2013
Biography
Alvin Lee, born Graham Anthony Barnes, was an iconic English rock guitarist and singer, best known as the lead vocalist and guitarist of the blues rock band Ten Years After. Born in Nottingham, England, Alvin showed an early interest in music and began playing the guitar at the age of 13. His musical journey took a significant turn when he formed Ten Years After in 1966, a band that would become renowned for its energetic live performances and Lee’s exceptional guitar skills. The band’s breakthrough came with their performance at the Woodstock Festival in 1969, where their song “I’m Going Home” became a highlight. Alvin Lee’s career spanned several decades, during which he released numerous solo albums and collaborated with various artists. His influence on rock and blues music remains significant, and he is remembered as one of the finest guitarists of his generation.
5 Interesting Facts about Alvin Lee
1. Alvin Lee was considered one of the fastest guitarists of his time, earning him the nickname “The Fastest Guitar in the West.”
2. His performance at Woodstock in 1969 with Ten Years After was a turning point in his career, bringing him international fame.
3. Lee collaborated with legends such as George Harrison, Steve Winwood, and Mick Fleetwood.
4. He was a self-taught guitarist, heavily influenced by blues legends like Chuck Berry and Scotty Moore.
5. Alvin Lee’s guitar of choice was a red Gibson ES-335, which he nicknamed “Big Red.”
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Alvin Lee
1. “I just play to escape from the pressures of life.”
2. “The blues is the roots, the rest is the fruits.”
3. “Woodstock was both a highlight and a watershed for us.”
4. “I don’t like to play too loud, but there’s a certain amount of volume you have to hit to get a good tone.”
5. “I still get the same buzz playing live.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
Alvin Lee’s highest net worth was estimated to be around $5 million.
Children
Alvin Lee had one daughter, Jasmin Lee.
Relevant Links
1. [Alvin Lee Official Website](http://www.alvinlee.com/
2. [Ten Years After – Woodstock Performance](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bW5M5xljdCI
3. [Alvin Lee on AllMusic](https://www.allmusic.com/artist/alvin-lee-mn0000747292
4. [Alvin Lee’s Biography on IMDb](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0498771/bio
