Paul Kantner, a founding member of the Jefferson Airplane whose signature sound provided the soundtrack for a generation of Flower Children and hippies in the Bay Area and beyond, died Thursday, of multiple organ failure.
He was 74.
Kantner, who was fond of San Francisco’s cafe life and lived it there, talking with strangers about his music and the times that defined him and so many others without affectation. He suffered from a number of health issues in recent years.
With the high-flying Jefferson Airplane, Kantner patented and put his stamp on the music known as “The San Francisco Sound” in the mid-60s, with the band putting out generational mainstays such as “Somebody to Love” and “White Rabbit.”
The Airplane, which Kantner helped organize and popularize, was known for a string of signature singers Marty Balin and Grace Slick. Kantner rounded out the now-legendary band with guitarist Jorma Kaukonen and bass player Jack Casady.
Watch out! Worm hole ahead and Tommie Smothers is there to take your E-ticket as you board.
There must be one stellar jam session going on right now.
Loved their music. RIP
Great sound. Grace was a hot hippy chick who just sang her head off. Kantner came up with such great sound.
He must be in heaven jamming with Bowie and Frey and all the others we have lost in recent months.
Great music. Rest in peace.
Loved their music and loved Grace’s voice.