Rick Davies, the co-founder, lead singer, and keyboardist of the legendary British progressive rock band Supertramp, has died. Davies died on Sept.6, more than 10 years after being diagnosed with the blood cancer multiple myeloma, the band announced on its official website.
“As co-writer, along with partner Roger Hodgson, [Davies] was the voice and pianist behind Supertramp’s most iconic songs, leaving an indelible mark on rock music history. His soulful vocals and unmistakable touch on the Wurlitzer became the heartbeat of the band’s sound,” the group shared in a statement. “Rick’s music and legacy continue to inspire many and bears testament to the fact that great songs never die, they live on.”
Davies and Hodgson formed Supertramp in 1970. The band’s classic lineup also included Dougie Thomson (bass), Bob Siebenberg (drums), and John Helliwell (saxophone), per The New York Post.
Supertramp became known for their 1970s hits such as “Give a Little Bit,” “Bloody Well Right,” “Take The Long Way Home,” “Goodbye Stranger,” “The Logical Song” and later, the MTV heavy rotation hit “It’s Raining Again.” The band’s 1979 album “Breakfast in America” was nominated for four Grammy Awards.
Amid numerous lineup changes, Davies was the only Supertramp band member who was a constant presence. Of Hodgson’s departure from Supertramp in 1982, the singer told Pop Culture Classics, “We weren’t sure whether to go on. We continued and did well. Having to run the show undeniably made me stronger.”
In 2015, Davies canceled Supertramp’s final tour amid his health issues. Davies performed on a smaller scale in the band Ricky and the Rockets.
Nostalgic fans reacted to Davies’ death on social media.
“He will be missed. His music was second to none and he truly was a piano wizard. Rest in Peace Rick Davies,” one fan wrote on Reddit.
“Rest easy and take the long way home,” another wrote.
Other fans posted photos and videos of Davies performing.
“Rick Davies died. I’m way too sad,” one fan wrote on X.
