Supertramp Founding Member Rick Davies Dies at 81; Tributes Pour In

Supertramp Founder Rick Davies Dies at 81 After Decade-Long Cancer Battle

Rick Davies, co-founder of the iconic 1970s British rock band Supertramp, passed away at age 81 on September 5 after a long battle with multiple myeloma. The keyboardist and singer-songwriter died peacefully at his home in Long Island, New York, surrounded by loved ones.

A Legacy of Musical Innovation
Davies co-founded Supertramp in 1970 alongside Roger Hodgson, later joined by members Dougie Thomson, Bob Siebenberg, and John Helliwell. The band became synonymous with progressive rock hits like The Logical Song, Breakfast in America, and Take the Long Way Home, earning four Grammy nominations and two diamond-certified albums in Canada. Their 1979 album Breakfast in America alone sold over 20 million copies worldwide.

Supertramp’s classic lineup, with Davies (far right), during their peak in the 1970s.

A Decade-Long Fight
The band confirmed Davies’ passing in a heartfelt statement, revealing his 10-year struggle with multiple myeloma, a cancer affecting plasma cells. “We had the privilege of knowing him and playing with him for over fifty years,” the tribute read. On Instagram, they shared lyrics from their 1979 hit Goodbye Stranger: “Goodbye stranger, it’s been nice / Hope you find your paradise…”

Davies performing live in 1974, during Supertramp’s rise to fame.

From Swindon to Stardom
Born in Swindon, England, in 1944, Davies began his musical journey as a drummer before mastering the keyboard. His early band, Rick’s Blues, included Gilbert O’Sullivan, who later credited Davies as a mentor. In 1969, Davies connected with Hodgson through a classified ad, forming the band Daddy, which evolved into Supertramp. Their jazz-infused rock sound and introspective lyrics defined an era.

Turbulence and Triumphs
Creative tensions led Hodgson to depart in 1983 after their album …Famous Last Words…. Davies continued with Supertramp, releasing their final studio album, Slow Motion, in 2002. A planned 2015 European tour was canceled due to Davies’ declining health. Despite setbacks, the band’s music remained a cultural touchstone, with Davies’ soulful vocals and Wurlitzer piano riffs leaving an indelible mark.

Davies during a 1979 performance, showcasing his signature stage presence.

Fans and Peers Pay Tribute
News of Davies’ death sparked an outpouring of grief. Composer Bear McCreary (The Walking Dead) hailed him as a “generational talent,” while fans shared stories of how his music shaped their lives. Social media influencer Punt Road tweeted, “Farewell Rick Davies… I’ve loved Supertramp since I was a kid.”

The band’s poignant Instagram post honoring Davies with lyrics from Goodbye Stranger.

A Lasting Impact
Montreal’s The Terry and Ted Podcast noted Supertramp’s deep connection to the city’s 70s-80s music scene. One fan reflected, “His lyrics accompanied me in joys and crises… Today, we need more music that makes us think about justice and vulnerability.”

A fan’s heartfelt homage to Davies on Instagram, celebrating his legacy.

Davies is survived by his wife, Sue. As the world mourns, his music—timeless, introspective, and endlessly resonant—ensures his spirit lives on. Rest in peace, Rick Davies.

Final Image:

Davies during a 2002 performance in the Netherlands, a testament to his enduring passion.

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