Legendary guitarist Gerry McGee, 82, died of an apparent heart attack in Tokyo Oct. 12 while on a solo tour of Japan. McGee replaced The Ventures’ Nokie Edwards between 1968 (“Hawaii 5-0“) and 1972, and then returned to the band in 1985. He continued performing and recording with The Ventures until two years ago – often alternating on tours or records with, or alongside Edwards, who passed away last year.
McGee, a Louisiana native and son of legendary fiddler Dennis McGee, also had a long career as a sought-after session player on countless recordings, including work with The Monkees in the 60s and Eric Clapton in the 70s. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee also worked as an actor in television and film.
McGee was noted for being able to play in a wide range of musical genres, from jazz and country to psychedelic rock and blues. He was the sort of guitarist whom I refer to as an “effortless player.” I only spoke with him briefly a couple of times; he was a quietly gracious man. McGee’s passing leaves retired co-founder Don Wilson, 86, as the sole surviving member of The Ventures’ 1960s lineups.
