Celebrated Tallahassee musician John Paul Walters has died.
In his hometown, Walters is perhaps best remembered for his work with Steve Meisburg who’d go on to become the city’s mayor. But Walters also had a vibrant musical career of his own, touring with some of the biggest musical names in the 1970s and 80s. Longtime locals may also remember some of the commercial radio and TV jingles Walters wrote and performed. Perhaps one of the most commonly heard was the signature song for SuperLube quick oil changes. Walters’ friend, local public relations firm owner Rick Oppenheim, also recalls Walters was involved in many social justice causes.
“He didn’t wear politics on his sleeve. I wouldn’t call him a political activist, but definitely a ‘gentle social activist.'”
Walters died at age 75 on July 23rd from Parkinson’s disease complications. A celebration of his life takes place at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 1 at Faith Presbyterian Church on North Meridian Road.
