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RATT Drummer Pays tribute To MITCH MITCHELL

November 12, 2008

RATT drummer Bobby Blotzer has released the following statement regarding the passing of Mitch Mitchell, drummer for the JIMI HENDRIX EXPERIENCE, who was found dead in a Portland hotel room this morning (November 12):

"I just found out about this.... so sad. Mitch Mitchell, drummer of JIMI HENDRIX EXPERIENCE was one of my earliest influences and role models. He was the reason I wanted to play drums. He always remained a hero and an icon. Nobody played like Mitch. He was a true pioneer. Before anyone else had even thought of 'fusion,' Mitch was playing ripping jazz shit all over the Hendrix stuff. The first album is off the hook that way. And then on 'Electric Ladyland', he smoothed everything out, less intense and manic, very fluid. I still get chills hearing it. The 'Cry Of Love' record really is a great piece of work by Mitch as well. I still use a particular fill that he wrote on the song 'Freedom' till this day in the RATT show, and everytime I do it, I think of Mitch. Thanks, Mitch! Your unparalleled legacy remains."

The Multnomah County Medical Examiner's office said 62-year-old Mitch Mitchell likely died of natural causes. His body was found just after 3 a.m. at the Benson Hotel.

Mitchell had been playing with the Experience Hendrix tour that just made a stop in Portland at the Schnitz last Friday, according to KGW.com.

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