London, Dec. 25 -- Mick Abrahams, the guitarist who helped lay the foundations of Jethro Tull during its formative years, has died aged 82.
Posting on the band's official website, lead singer Ian Anderson said he was sorry to hear of the death of the "strong vocalist and experienced, powerful and lyrical guitarist".
He said Luton-born Abrahams had "endured worsening ill health for the last 15 years, leaving him finally unable to perform".
Anderson said Abrahams was "vitally important" to the band's early line-up and developed his musical ideas into a "tour de force display of his instrumental talents for the rest of his performing days".
Jethro Tull emerged from the ashes of local blues ensembles, including The John Evan Band and McGreg...