Supertramp Star, Co-Founder Rick Davies Dead At 81...

Supertramp co-founder Rick Davies died Sept. 6 at the age of 81 after a long battle with cancer. The lead singer and songwriter battled multiple myeloma for over a decade, according to a heartfelt statement issued by the band on their official website announcing Davies’ death. “Born in Swindon, England in 1944, Rick’s love of music began in his childhood listening to Gene Krupa’s ‘Drummin’ Man’ which grew into a lifelong passion for jazz, blues and rock’n’roll,” they wrote. “As co-writer, along with partner Roger Hodgson, he was the voice and pianist behind Supertramp’s most iconic songs, leaving an indelible mark on rock music history.” Supertramp’s statement went on to say, “His soulful vocals and unmistakable touch on the Wurlitzer became the heartbeat of the bands’ sound. The band paid tribute to the man behind the music. “Beyond the stage, Rick was known for his warmth, resilience, and devotion to his wife Sue, with whom he shared over five decades. After facing serious health challenges, which kept him unable to continue touring as Supertramp, he enjoyed performing with his hometown buds as Ricky and the Rockets,” their statement read. Davies was the driving force behind Supertramp’s success. He wrote and sang hits “Bloody Well Right” and “Goodbye Stranger” and led the band from a progressive-rock group into a chart-topping success story. Davies is credited for a number of hits. The band’s 1979 album “Breakfast in America” continues to be recognized as a staple in the music industry. (RELATED: Giorgio Armani Dead At 91) “Rick’s music and legacy continue to inspire many and bears testament to the fact that great songs never die, they live on,” the band wrote.