Rick Davies, the reputable keyboardist and vocalist who played a crucial role in forming the renowned band Supertramp, has passed away at the age of 81. The band confirmed the sad news, stating that Davies lost his battle with multiple myeloma, a form of blood cancer, after being diagnosed more than ten years ago.
Described as the creative force alongside Roger Hodgson, Davies’ musical talent and distinctive style on the Wurlitzer keyboard were instrumental in shaping Supertramp’s iconic songs, leaving a lasting impact on the rock music scene. The collaboration between Davies and Hodgson propelled the band to commercial success, with hits like “Breakfast in America,” which remains one of the top-selling albums of 1979.
Born in Swindon, England, in 1944, Davies began his musical journey by mastering the drums and piano in his youth, eventually placing an ad in Melody Maker seeking skilled musicians. The band’s name, inspired by a book titled “The Autobiography of a Super-Tramp” by W.H. Davies, led to the release of two albums that garnered moderate success.
Despite initial setbacks, Davies and Hodgson found their stride in the early 1970s with the addition of band members Bob Siebenberg, Dougie Thomson, and John Helliwell. Their breakthrough album, “Crime of the Century,” showcased Davies’ talent on tracks like “Bloody Well Right,” while Hodgson’s “Dreamer” soared on the charts.
The dynamic between Davies and Hodgson, rooted in their contrasting backgrounds and personalities, mirrored legendary songwriting duos like Lennon and McCartney. Supertramp’s ability to blend pop and progressive rock genres produced a string of hits, with Hodgson often taking the lead vocals.
As the band’s popularity grew worldwide through extensive touring, internal tensions surfaced, impacting subsequent albums’ success. Following Hodgson’s departure, Davies and Helliwell continued Supertramp’s legacy with new releases, navigating legal disputes over song royalties.
In remembrance of Rick Davies, Supertramp highlighted his enduring legacy in music, his unwavering commitment to his wife Sue, and his contributions to the band’s rich history.