Denis Parker, a trailblazing blues musician with over five decades of career, has died. He was 78.
Multiple social media users confirmed Parker's death, sharing their heartfelt tribute to the late musician. Manager of Fred's Records, Tony Ploughman, also opened up about working with Parker for 42 years and how his music had been part of his life.
What Was Denis Parker's Cause of Death?
CBC News cited Parker's health problems over the years, though his family has yet to disclose his exact cause of death.
Per the news outlet, the Newfoundland musician faced health issues, including heart attacks. However, these did not stop him from singing and performing for years.
In 2019, he told "St. John's Morning Show" that he underwent bypass surgeries for his heart and both of his legs. He also suffered from pneumonia and influenza.
At that time, Parker said his heart only had 30 percent function.
This kept him from touring in different countries, though he found joy in performing in several local gigs.
"My career is basically non-existent, I suppose, except the fact that I'm still writing music and I'm still recording music, which is what keeps me sane," Parker said at the time.
Denis Parker Honored After His Death
On Facebook and X, fans, colleagues and friends paid tribute to Parker by sharing heartfelt messages along with photos of themselves with the late musician.
"Son of a Critch" author Mark Critch said on X, "I loved Denis Parker's music so much as a kid that I used to sneak in bars underage to see him. He became a dear friend and you'll see his tapes, albums & posters peppered through the @SonOfACritchTV set. RIP to another NL great!"
"Denis Parker has died. He was a true blues mentor and will be missed. His contribution to the genre in Newfoundland is indisputable. May he rest in peace," another wrote.
"So incredibly grateful for the stages and songs we shared together," a musician wrote on Facebook. "To extend a hand to a 14 year old kid who was hungry to play and gain knowledge of the blues, is just a small look into the character of Mr. Denis Parker. I wish we could've done this once more, but I'm very happy we got to do it at all."
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