ELO Bassist Dies
ELO bassist Kelly Groucutt has died after suffering a heart attack at age 63.
A statement on Groucott’s official website says:
‘It is with great sadness that I have to inform the fans that Kelly Groucutt died on the afternoon of 19th February 2009 of a heart attack.
‘Our hearts and thoughts go out to Anna and Kelly’s family. He touched all of our lives with his love, kindness and generosity as well as his talent for music and song.
‘He was a true and wonderful friend who loved every second of life and he will be greatly missed by us all.’
Groucutt was bassist for the Electric Light Orchestra between 1974 and 1983.
The first Electric Light Orchestra album to feature him on bass guitar and as a backing vocalist was 1975’s Face The Music.
He continued contributing on the following albums A New World Record (1976), Out of the Blue (1977), Discovery (1979), Xanadu (1980) and Time (1981).
He is credited with playing bass on 1983’s Secret Messages, although it has been stated from an official source that he only played on four songs.
r.i.p mate
RIP – under estimated throughout his ELO career. Thanks for the vocal on sweet is the night – magic
A terrific performer who’ll be sadly missed. RIP
OMG I’ve just found out – I was so looking forward to seeing you again on tour this year…
I am absolutely gutted, the world has just lost the most amazing artist – God Rest your soul my friend xxx
Nice Guy, Great Musician, Great Loss.
I grew up with ELO being my biggest musical influence, I have recently just grown to love the music and the memories once more, which has led me to see what all the guys do now, I am greatly saddend by the news that an unsung musical legend has passed on, thanks for the memories Kelly, R.I.P
Only realised when we went to see The Orchestra that Kelly had died – huge shock, but there could be no finer tribute than this brilliant gig from the survivors.
A charismatic performer.