Jimmie Vaughan, born March 20, 1951, in Dallas, Texas, is a renowned blues-rock guitarist and singer long based in Austin. As the older brother of Stevie Ray Vaughan and a founding member of the Fabulous Thunderbirds, he has built a respected career defined by a lean, rootsy guitar style influenced by the blues greats.
“Six Strings Down,” released in 1994 on his solo debut album Strange Pleasure, is a heartfelt tribute to his late brother Stevie Ray Vaughan, who died in a 1990 helicopter crash near Alpine Valley, as well as other departed blues guitarists. Co-written with members of the Neville family and others and produced by Nile Rodgers, the song imagines these legends welcoming Stevie to a heavenly jam session.
- Appears on the 1994 album Strange Pleasure
- Opens with a direct reference to the Alpine Valley crash site
- Mentions icons such as Jimi Hendrix (“voodoo chile”), Albert Collins, Muddy Waters, and Lightnin’ Hopkins
- Frequently performed live with guests including Eric Clapton, B.B. King, and Buddy Guy
This poignant blues track stands as one of Jimmie Vaughan’s most enduring and emotionally resonant recordings.