GARDEN ROUTE NEWS - Local musician/songwriter, John McHattie, passed away suddenly at his home in Mossel Bay, on Monday 18 February at the age of 65.
John began his music career in the Garden Route in the late 1970s playing as a duo with his wife Helmie at the Caves Motel in Oudtshoorn, and in subsequent years has played at most of the venues in the area.
In 2003 John joined up with fellow musician André Thysse to form the band ‘Wingerdstok’ and successfully toured the Cape from Mossel Bay to Cape Town to Oudtshoorn.
He was well respected amongst his fellow musicians, many of whom have been inspired by his extremely talented blues and blues/rock guitar playing ability. Also well-liked by the public for his entertaining personality, where ever he made his music.
He wrote many songs which have been recorded by national artists including Shaun Tait - Bondeltjie Liefde en Bianca - Die Doef Doef van my Hart.
John was a regular performer at the Garden Route Casino as well as many of the restaurants in Mossel Bay and George.
Cause of death was a sudden heart attack. He is survived by daughter Chantelle, granddaughter Stacy and sister Susan Lewis Pimenta who lives in California.
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