Larry Taylor

Biography

Samuel Lawrence Taylor (June 26, 1942 – August 19, 2019) was an influential American bass guitarist celebrated for his significant contributions to the blues rock genre, most notably as a member of the iconic band Canned Heat. Before his tenure with Canned Heat, Taylor enjoyed a successful career as a session bassist, collaborating with notable artists such as The Monkees and Jerry Lee Lewis. He was also the younger sibling of Mel Taylor, the esteemed drummer for The Ventures.

Taylor's musical journey began with The Gamblers, an early rock ensemble that made waves in the instrumental surf music scene. The group included notable musicians like Elliot Ingber and Bruce Johnston. Taylor gained recognition for his work on their local hit "Moon Dawg." In 1966, he contributed to several albums for The Monkees, including their debut album and hits like "Last Train to Clarksville."

In 1967, Taylor joined Canned Heat after being invited by guitarist Henry Vestine. His time with the band, lasting until 1970, saw him perform at legendary music festivals such as Woodstock and the Monterey International Pop Festival. During this period, he earned the nickname "The Mole" and occasionally showcased his lead guitar skills.

After leaving Canned Heat, Taylor spent nearly a decade with John Mayall’s Bluesbreakers, becoming a vital part of the band from 1970 to 1977. He later transitioned to the upright bass, becoming a prominent figure in the contemporary blues scene and appearing in the documentary "Lightning in a Bottle." Larry Taylor passed away at 77 after a prolonged battle with cancer, leaving behind his wife Andrea and their three children.