At the John Lee Hooker Foundation, we believe the blues is more than music — it's a lifeline, a cultural inheritance, and a force for change. Founded by the Hooker Family Estate in 2001, our foundation is rooted in the spirit of John Lee Hooker’s generosity and artistic brilliance. We work tirelessly to bridge communities, uplift youth, and ensure access to music and arts education for the next generation.
Through our flagship program, Blues In The School, we provide under-resourced schools and grassroots organizations with musical instruments, culturally rich curriculum, and engaging workshops led by professional musicians. From hands-on classroom sessions to community concerts and cultural events, we use the power of the blues to connect, educate, and inspire.
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PARTNERS
A BLUES LEGEND.
Tailored Life Coaching for Every Aspiration
100+
Albums and Compilations Released
Over the span of his prolific career, John Lee Hooker recorded more than 100 albums and compilations, establishing himself as one of the most influential blues musicians of all time. From raw solo performances like Boogie Chillun to electric collaborations with artists like Carlos Santana and Van Morrison, his distinctive voice and hypnotic guitar style left an indelible mark on American music.
5-Time
Grammy Award Winner
John Lee Hooker's contributions to music were recognized with five Grammy Awards, including the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2000. His album The Healer (1989), featuring collaborations with Bonnie Raitt and others, revitalized his career and won him the Grammy for Best Traditional Blues Recording. His ability to cross generations and genres solidified his status as a timeless artist.
No. 1
Inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
ooker’s influence went beyond the blues—he helped shape the sound of rock and roll itself. In 1991, he was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, joining the ranks of artists whose work transcended genres. He was also one of the first inductees into the Blues Hall of Fame in 1980, recognizing his foundational role in shaping the blues tradition. His music has appeared in countless films, commercials, and tributes, echoing across cultures and generations.
Who Are We?
The John Lee Hooker Foundation is a nonprofit born from the heart and soul of a blues icon. Established by the Hooker Family Estate in 2001, we aim to connect underserved youth with music, culture, and creativity through grassroots community partnerships.
Rooted in the rich rhythm of the blues and driven by a passion for community upliftment, the John Lee Hooker Foundation carries forward the spirit of a legend—one note, one child, one neighborhood at a time.
Founded in 2001 by the Hooker Family Estate, our mission is simple but powerful: to support grassroots organizations in delivering accessible, high-quality arts and education programs to youth across the San Francisco Bay Area and beyond. Through generous contributions and fundraising efforts, we provide funding, curriculum, and musical instruments that help spark creativity, confidence, and cultural pride in the next generation.
At the heart of our work is a deep belief in equity, access, and artistic freedom. Inspired by John Lee Hooker’s generous soul and musical genius, we strive to ensure that young people from all walks of life can experience the transformative power of music and the arts.
HERE'S HOW THE WORLD REMEMBERS THE BLUES LEGEND
“There are no superlatives to describe the profound impact John Lee left in our hearts. For musicians and common people, all of us feel enormous gratitude, respect, admiration and love for his spirit.”
Carlos Santana
“There is nobody even remotely like John... The man is a real one of a kind. He is a window into another age.”
Van Morrison
“As much as it was a joy to perform with him, you would really have to become him in order to play along.”
Keith Richards
