A legendary figure in British rock music is being honoured with a unique tribute — a train named after him.
Wilko Johnson, best known as the guitarist for the 1970s pub-rock band Dr Feelgood, will have his name displayed on a train, rail operator c2c has announced. Johnson, who later enjoyed a successful solo career, was born on Canvey Island in Essex.
According to c2c, which operates rail services throughout the south of Essex, Dr Feelgood and Johnson remain “cultural icons of the Essex, London and UK music scene.”
The unveiling of the new nameplate will take place during a special event later today. A train, featuring live music onboard, will journey from Southend Central to London Fenchurch Street in tribute to the late guitarist.
Wilko Johnson was widely admired for his dynamic guitar technique. His finger-picked playing style fused sharp, rhythmic stabs with smooth, melodic runs, enabling him to perform both rhythm and lead parts simultaneously — a hallmark of his sound.
In 2012, Johnson was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and told he had just 10 months to live. However, following radical surgery in 2014, he was declared cancer-free.
Johnson spent his final years living in Southend-on-Sea before passing away in 2022.
The commemorative train event is being organised in partnership with Jonathan Maitland, the writer behind the forthcoming West End production titled Wilko, which will celebrate the life and legacy of the iconic musician.
