Widespread Panic Guitarist Dies at 40
ATHENS, Ga. — Michael "Mikey" Houser, lead guitarist and one of the founders of Widespread Panic, died Saturday after a battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 40.
After months of speculation among fans, Houser released a statement in July, explaining his illness and saying he would not participate in its summer tour.
"I have hopes of playing again soon, although I can't say for sure when or where," Houser wrote at the time on the band's Web site.
An announcement about his death also appeared on the Web site this weekend. In a prepared statement released Sunday by Paula Donner, Houser's spokeswoman, the family is asking people to make contributions to the Michael Houser Music Fund, a program at Athens Academy.
"In this very sad time, we encourage you to gather with your Panic families in your hometown and celebrate Michael Houser's life on Monday, August 12th," the Athens-based band posted on its site. "Our hearts are with you as we know that your thoughts and prayers are with us."
Houser began playing in 1982 with the band's current vocalist, John Bell, when both were attending the University of Georgia. The band formed three years later with bass player Dave Schools, percussionist Domingo Ortiz and keyboardist John "JoJo" Hermann.
Widespread Panic, which developed a large, faithful following, is known for its blues-based style of music that features improvisational guitar rhythms and progressive percussions. The band often sold out shows across the nation and abroad.
The group's first album, Space Wrangler, was released in 1988. Others include the self-titled, Widespread Panic, Ain't Life Grand and Don't Tell the Band, nominated this year for studio album of the year at the Jammys, which honor jam bands and musicians.
Houser is survived by his wife, Barbette, and son, Waker.
RIP Michale Houser
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