Dave Greenfield (pictured right) has died aged 71.
The longtime keyboardist for the Stranglers tested positive for COVID-19 following admittance to hospital for heart problems, and succumbed to the virus on May 3. His band broke the news via social media and their website.
"We are deeply and profoundly saddened to announce the untimely passing of keyboard legend Dave Greenfield on the evening of 3rd May 2020. Following a stay in hospital for heart problems, Dave tested positive for the Covid-19 virus last Sunday but he sadly lost his battle last night. Dave had been an ever present in the band since joining in late 1975 and his keyboard wizardry was world-renowned over his 45 year career in The Stranglers. Dave was a lovable, friendly and eccentric character who always had time to chat."
“We have just lost a dear friend and music genius, and so has the whole world," said the band's drummer Jet Black. "Dave was a complete natural in music. Together, we toured the globe endlessly and it was clear he was adored by millions. A huge talent, a great loss, he is dearly missed.”
Statements from his other bandmates, Jean-Jacques Burnel and Baz Warne, as well as the band's manager Sil Willcox can be found on the band's website.
The Stranglers formed in Guildford in 1974 and came up in the punk and pub-rock scene. Greenfield joined in 1975 as a keyboardist, but also took care of backing and lead vocals. He was responsible for co-writing one of the band's biggest hits, 1982's Golden Brown.
Greenfield was still an active member of the Stranglers up until his passing, and was due to join them on their farewell UK tour later this year. It is not clear if this will still go ahead in the circumstances — the band are understandably yet to address this.
— The Stranglers Site (@StranglersSite) May 4, 2020
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