Rhett Tyler

February 11, 1952 — March 12, 2024

Albany

Born in San Antonio, Texas, and raised in Mississippi, Ohio, and St. Louis, Rhett Tyler grew up listening and learning about music and the blues from his father, an Air Force officer and talented classical, boogie & blues pianist, and about writing from his mother, a published poet. His musical talent became apparent at the age of 15, when his parents gave him his first electric guitar. Rooted in the blues, Tyler incorporates jazz, rock, and gospel influences, which define his signature guitar style and innovative musical approach.

Tyler attended Mannes College of Music and the Berkley School of Music in the early 70s. He soon found himself on tour as bandleader for R&B recording artist Ruth Copeland, and in the mid-80s, he formed the band, Early Warning. Tyler has independently recorded and released nine CDs, Total Package (92), My Passion (97), Live at Manny's Car Wash (99), and Don’t Put Me In No Box (05), and is presently writing songs for his next studio CD. He open for B.B. King at the Palace Theatre in Albany.

Tyler performs both with his band, Early Warning, as a power trio (guitar, bass, and drums) and as a solo artist on the acoustic 12-string (along with his harmonica). He has performed at many prominent festivals and venues, including the Mississippi Valley Blues Fest (IA), Fleet Blues Fest (NY), Jersey Shore Jazz & Blues Fest, (NJ), and Treasure Coast Blues Fest (FL). Tyler has also shared billing with many distinguished blues artists, including Johnny Winter, Lonnie Brooks, Elvin Bishop, Delbert McClinton, and John Hammond, to name a few.

Rhett Tyler was inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame on September 25, 2011 as “Master Blues Artist from New York”. Memorial service will be held at a later time for friends and family.

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