Johnny Nitro (1951-2011)

photo by: Scott Palmer

On February 19, 2011, Blue Bear School of Music lost a much-loved member of our community when long-time Blue Bear teacher Johnny Nitro passed away unexpectedly at his home in San Francisco's North Beach District.

Though Johnny battled heart disease and diabetes for years, he was a powerhouse performer who packed The Saloon in North Beach every Friday and Sunday night for the last 25 years, and gigged at other Bay Area venues as well. He was a very dedicated teacher - "encouraging" is the first word students use to describe him - who taught lessons to aspiring blues guitarists and led The Blues on Sunday workshop, and who often brought his students onstage at his Sunday Saloon gig. His protégés include renowned blues guitarist and Blue Bear Live alum Tommy Castro, as well as countless Blue Bear students.

Johnny played with Albert King, Albert Collins, Sonny Rhodes, Charlie Musselwhite and more. One of his songs, "Dirty Dishes," was made famous by Albert Collins (and also recorded by noted bluesman Tab Benoit). He was a San Francisco institution, a highly skilled guitarist and a consummate showman who embodied the love of playing music.

Rest in peace, Johnny. You will truly be missed.

SFGate article on Johnny Nitro