Tim Krekel (1950-2009) was a genuine American original. As a unique singer, songwriter, and guitarist, he dedicated himself to creating music that was -and remains- a real testament to life, love, and rock & roll. Over his four-decade career, Tim’s gifts to the music world have been frequent and plentiful, and he enjoyed success on many different levels.
It is hard to overestimate how many different bands, tours, and songs Tim Krekel saw in his years in the music business. Second to becoming his native Louisville’s ultimate guitar rock hero, Krekel is best know for his years in Jimmy Buffett’s band and, of course, of his songwriting. Krekel provided hits for Rick Nelson, Lonnie Mack, Jerry Reed, Dr. Feelgood, Canned Heat, Delbert McClinton, Martina McBride, and dozens more. In 1984, Crystal Gayle hit #1 with Tim’s “Turning Away,” and Patty Loveless did the same in 1995 with “You Can Feel Bad.”
In March of 2009 Tim Krekel was diagnosed with cancer. By mid June of that year, he was at the final stages of what he described as “a most wonderful life.” Tim was able to pass away under the loving care of his family and hospice on June 24, 2009.
