Don Van Vliet (January 15, 1941 – December 17, 2010) was an American musician and visual artist best known by the stage name Captain Beefheart. His musical work was conducted with a rotating ensemble of musicians he called The Magic Band, active between 1965 and 1982, with whom he recorded 12 studio albums. Noted for his powerful singing voice with its wide range, Van Vliet also played the harmonica, saxophone and numerous other wind instruments. His music blended rock, blues and psychedelia with free jazz, avant-garde and contemporary experimental composition. Beefheart was also known for exercising an almost dictatorial control over his supporting musicians.
Death of Don Van Vliet (Captain Beefheart)
Captain Beefheart died of complications from multiple sclerosis
Captain Beefheart was 69 years old at the time of his death
Captain Beefheart & Magic Band – Sure ’nuff ‘n Yes I do