Will Scarlett RIP 9/24/2025
This from Jorma Kaukonen--founding member of Hot Tuna:
In a blog post on his website. Kaukonen referred to Will Scarlett as his "old friend and band mate" and wrote that he had passed away today September 24, 2025.
For us harmonica players, Will's innovative playing will not go unnoticed. I can remember people talking about his mystery notes--not knowing that Will was incorporating "overblowing" into his playing--amazing in the late 60's!
Shocked to learn of Will's passing, Ross Garren--currently touring with Hot Tuna, told me that he shared a room with Will Scarlett during last month's SPAH convention. He remarked how much he enjoyed Will's company ... "he was truly inspiring and will be missed by all".
May he Rest in Peace as he RIP'd in life.
Your HARPSMITH, Kinya
Will went back to my wife's days growing up in Berkeley, and I last saw him two years ago when Mark Hummel brought his Blowout to Freight & Salvage. An amazing life, and a wonderful artist and human being.