James Blood Ulmer
February 8, 1940 – June 3, 2026

With deep sorrow and profound love, we announce the passing of James Blood Ulmer, a boldly innovative guitarist, singer, composer, and beloved family member. James died peacefully on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at the age of 86.
Born on February 8, 1940, the eldest of eight children, Blood grew up in rural, deeply segregated St. Matthews, South Carolina. His father, a Baptist preacher, gave him his first guitar when he was four years old. Raised on church music, James’s first professional gig was singing gospel with his father’s vocal quartet, the Southern Sons. When his voice changed, he turned to the guitar and found inspiration in Chuck Berry and the blues — music his god-fearing parents condemned as “devil’s music.”
Beyond his lifelong dedication to music, Blood was a father to six children: Greg, Donna, Michael, Gia, Damu and Nisa. He was also the proud grandfather of twelve grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren.
To the world, James Blood Ulmer was a legend, a visionary, and a musical force whose sound was distinctive and unique. To his family, he was their teacher, their storyteller, and a source of strength. To Eva, his wife and partner, James was her rock, her hero, and her beloved companion of sixteen years. His music was fearless, and so was his spirit.
A private funeral will be held on Monday June 8, 2026, There will be a public celebration of James’s life in the near future, so stay tuned. Please respect our privacy at this time and play Blood’s music LOUD!
The Family of James Blood Ulmer
BUSTER WILLIAMS - SOMETHING MORE
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Each song played on a different legendary instrument.
“Dedicated to the world‘s most famous guitar builders and inspired by a list of musical teachers who opened up his musical horizons, from Joe Pass and Jim Hall to Joe Diorio, Mick Goodrick and Vic Juris. Archtop Avenue is a compelling addition to the canon of solo guitar and a crowning achievement in Zjaca‘s career to date.”
(Bill Milkowski)






































