Mike Pinera, Blues Image Frontman, Passes Away at 76

Renowned musician Mike Pinera, the talented singer and guitarist who penned the iconic 1970 hit “Ride Captain Ride” for his influential band Blues Image, passed away on November 20 at the age of 76. His legacy in the music world will be remembered as a significant contribution to the rock genre.

According to local news outlet St. Pete Catalyst, Pinera’s death occurred at his residence in Tampa, Florida, following a prolonged battle with illness. His passing marks the end of an era for fans and fellow musicians alike.

Blues Image was known for their innovative fusion of Latin rhythms with a heavy rock sound, which captured the attention of audiences during their peak. They pioneered the opening of Tampa’s first-ever psychedelic club, named Dino’s, before relocating to Miami, where they became regulars at the famed Thee Image club.

READ MORE: Top 25 Psychedelic Rock Albums

The band had the honor of opening for legendary acts including Cream, Frank Zappa, Jimi Hendrix, the Grateful Dead, The Yardbirds, and Led Zeppelin. During this time, Pinera forged a lasting friendship with Jimmy Page, which further enriched his musical journey.

Following the disbandment of Blues Image, Pinera joined the influential group Iron Butterfly and contributed to their 1970 album Metamorphosis. He was a pioneer in the use of the Talk Box device, prominently featured in his song “Butterfly Bleu.” After parting ways in 1972, he reunited with the band several times through 1993. In 1980, he also had a notable stint with Alice Cooper‘s band, showcasing his versatility as a musician.

Listen to Blues Image’s ‘Ride Captain Ride’

In a revealing 2014 interview, Pinera reflected on his experiences during the Blues Image era, describing it as a profound period of musical and personal discovery. “People were seeking a higher reality that we all shared, yet couldn’t fully reach alone,” he shared. “This led many to embrace psychedelic rock, meditation, Eastern music, and alternative lifestyles as a means to expand their consciousness and explore the vast realms of existence they were beginning to uncover.

Mike Pinera Shares Memories of Jamming with Legends Like Hendrix and Page

“During our time in Blues Image, Manny Bertematti and I delved into meditation techniques, embraced vegetarian diets, and practiced fasting, treating everyone we met as if they were family. This journey unveiled new dimensions of well-being, leaving us with a radiant glow from head to toe. Our music reflected levels of spontaneity that allowed us to play in perfect harmony without knowing how or why!” he reminisced.

When asked to highlight the pinnacle moments of his career, Pinera responded with enthusiasm. “Meeting and jamming with legends like Jimi Hendrix and Jimmy Page were unforgettable experiences. They were incredibly social and approachable if you took the time to get to know them,” he recalled.

“To those outside, they might have seemed private and almost untouchable. However, in relaxed settings, it became evident that they longed for authentic friendship and sincerity, revealing a profound depth beneath their public personas.”

Watch Iron Butterfly Perform ‘Butterfly Bleu’