Captain Beefheart dies aged 69

WASHINGTON - American rocker and painter Don Van Vliet, who recorded under the moniker Captain Beefheart, has died at the age of 69.

According to a representative for the Michael Werner Gallery in New York, the star passed away on 17th Dec 2010, reports Contactmusic.

The exact cause of his death was unknown, although he had long been suffering from multiple sclerosis.

The singer rose to fame in the 1960s with his own style of blues and rock, later influencing artists such as Tom Waits, Nick Cave and Red Hot Chili Peppers.

He was also a successful painter, and one picture by Vliet sold for 40,000 dollars at the Michael Werner Gallery earlier this month.

A statement issued by the gallery read, “Don Van Vliet was a complex and influential figure in the visual and performing arts.

“He is perhaps best known as the incomparable Captain Beefheart who, together with his Magic Band, rose to prominence in the 1960s with a totally unique style of blues-inspired, experimental rock and roll.

“This would ultimately secure Van Vliet’s place in music history as one of the most original recording artists of his time. After two decades in the spotlight as an avant-garde composer and performer, Van Vliet retired from performing to devote himself wholeheartedly to painting and drawing.

“Like his music, Van Vliet’s lush paintings are the product of a truly rare and unique vision.” (ANI)