Supertramp founder Rick Davies dies at 81: what was the cause of death?
It has been announced that Rick Davies, who formed the British rock band Supertramp in 1970, has died.
Supertramp founder and singer Rick Davies has died at the age of 81 after a long battle with cancer, the British rock band has announced.
In a statement on social media, the group revealed that Davies passed away on Saturday, September 6, having succumbed to multiple myeloma. He had been diagnosed with the rare form of cancer in 2015.
Born in Swindon, England, Davies formed Supertramp in 1970, along with fellow original members Roger Hodgson, Richard Palmer and Keith Baker.
With Davies sharing writing and vocals with Hodgson, Supertramp rose to prominence in the 1970s thanks to popular records such as “Breakfast in America” and “Give a Little Bit”.
“Great songs never die”
“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,” the group’s statement said.
“His soulful vocals and unmistakable touch on the Wurlitzer became the heartbeat of the bands’ [sic] sound.
“Beyond the stage, Rick was known for his warmth, resilience, and devotion to his wife Sue, with whom he shared over five decades."
The statement added: “Rick’s music and legacy continue to inspire many and bears testament to the fact that great songs never die, they live on.”
What is multiple myeloma?
Multiple myeloma is a form of blood cancer that develops in white blood cells. Per the Mayo Clinic, the illness forms in a type of white blood cell known as plasma cells.
“Healthy plasma cells help fight infections by making proteins called antibodies. Antibodies find and attack germs,” the Mayo Clinic explains.
Multiple myeloma is most common among men aged in their late 60s and above, the Mayo Clinic adds.
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