R.I.P. Don Van Vliet (Captain Beefheart)

by Adam Bubolz · Published December 17, 2010 · Updated December 17, 2010

Don Van Vliet, aka Captain Beefheart, one of the most original and unique artists in the history of rock and roll, has died today at the age of 69 according to a representative of the Michael Werner Gallery. While Vliet retired from music in 1982 to pursue a career in art, Beefheart will best be remembered for his 1969 masterpiece Trout Mask Replica. A true American original.