Musicians and singers who died (April 2026)
April 2026
[13 Apr 2026] Moya Brennan, 73, Irish folk singer for Clannad
The serene voice of Irish Grammy and Bafta-winning group, Clannad- Moya Brennan has passed away at her home in County Donegal at age 73. The Celtic folk singer, songwriter and harpist, the eldest of nine children, began singing with her family band in 1970 and recorded more than two dozen albums and sold millions of records worldwide, becoming one of the world’s foremost traditional Irish acts and became synonymous with Celtic music…. wheartm- [13 Apr 2026] Patrick Campbell-Lyons, 82, Irish musician and composer
The musician was a founding member of the band, which launched in 1966 and performed until 1971, before reuniting in 1985 – two years ahead of rock group Nirvana forming their own group… mirror - [13 Apr 2026] Margret Nikolova, 97, Bulgarian pop singer
Singer Margret Nikolova – one of the iconic voices of Bulgarian pop music – has died. For more than 50 years on stage, Margret Nikolova has performed over 9,400 concerts, and her rich repertoire includes more than 600 songs… btvnovinite
[13 Apr 2026] Al Gunn, Canadian bassist for Men Without Hats
Former Men Without Hats bassist Alain Lefebvre, aka Al Gunn, has passed away. The news was shared by the new wave band on Facebook. “It is with great sadness that we regret to inform you of the passing of Al Gunn, former bass player for Men Without Hats,” they wrote. “Al (Alain Lefebvre) was a larger than life character, immortalized in the song Pop Goes The World (‘Send Al Gunn to see the doctor BEN!’). He was a childhood friend, a loyal supporter, and a talented luthier to several generations of Montreal guitarists (The Guitar Hospital). He has left us much too soon, and will be dearly missed. RIP Al Gunn.”… notreble- [12 Apr 2026] Asha Bhosle, 92, Indian playback singer, multiple organ failure
Legendary playback singer Asha Bhosle—one of the most prolific voices of Indian cinema who recorded more than 12,000 songs in multiple Indian languages in a career spanning eight decades—passed away in Mumbai on Sunday…. deccanherald - [12 Apr 2026] Václav Hybš, 90, Czech musician, trumpeter and conductor
Václav Hybš, a renowned Czech trumpeter, conductor and bandleader, has died at the age of 90. He began his musical career in his father’s band and later founded the Orchestra of Václav Hybš, which accompanied many leading Czech pop singers, including Waldemar Matuška who later emmigrated to the USA. … radio - [11 Apr 2026] Mike Westbrook, 90, English jazz pianist and composer
Mike Westbrook obituary. Acclaimed musician, composer and bandleader who was one of the most significant figures in the history of British jazz… theguardian - [10 Apr 2026] Harry Kim, 74, American trumpeter for The Phenix Horns, cancer
The musician Harry Kim, who had worked for many years as the leader of the horn sections for Phil Collins, lost his battle with cancer yesterday…. genesis-news - [09 Apr 2026] Afrika Bambaataa, 68, American DJ and rapper, prostate cancer
New York hip-hop pioneer Afrika Bambaataa has died at 68. TMZ reported he died from complications of cancer early Thursday, April 9, just days away from his April 17 birthday, in Pennsylvania. Bambaataa’s manager, Naf Aroug, confirmed the rapper’s death in a statement to USA TODAY on Friday…. usatoday - [09 Apr 2026] Björgvin Halldórsson, 74, Icelandic musician
Björgvin Halldórsson, one of the nation’s most beloved musicians, has died at the age of 74. Björgvin, who was often called Bó Halldórs, was born in Hafnarfjörður on April 16, 1951. His parents were Halldór Baldvinsson, a ship’s captain in Hafnarfjörður, and Ásta Sigríður Þorleifsdóttir, a housewife…. ruv - [06 Apr 2026] Michail Belchev, 79, Bulgarian singer, songwriter and poet
Singer and composer Mihail Belchev has died, BTA reports, citing his wife Kristina Belcheva. He passed away at the age of 79. Mihail Belchev was born on August 13, 1946 in Sofia. Among his most popular songs are “Mladoststa si otiva”, “Ne ostavravai lyubov”, “Otkrovenie”, “Priyatelstvo” and others…. news - [06 Apr 2026] Blondy, 66, American songwriter and rapper for The Sequence
Gwendolyn “Blondy” Chisolm — who cofounded pioneering female hip-hop trio The Sequence with Cheryl “The Pearl” Cook and the late Angela “Angie B” Brown (aka Angie Stone) — has died. The rapper-singer-songwriter succumbed following a brief illness on Monday (April 6) in Atlanta. She was 66…. billboard - [06 Apr 2026] Álvaro Cassuto, 87, Portuguese composer and conductor
Conductor Álvaro Cassuto died this Monday, at the age of 87, at his home in Guincho, Cascais, a source close to the family told Lusa. Álvaro Cassuto founded the Nova Filarmonia Portuguesa, worked with national and international orchestras, and leaves behind a vast discography, including the complete cycle of Symphonies by Joly Braga Santos. … publico - [05 Apr 2026] Alvin L, 67, Brazilian singer-songwriter, heart attack
Alvin L, collaborator of Dinho Ouro Preto and Marina Lima, dies in Rio at age 67. Author of hits such as “Não Sei Dançar” and “Tudo Que Vai,” the artist leaves behind a significant contribution to Brazilian pop, both as a songwriter and as a member of bands such as Sex Beatles and Rapazes da Vida Fácil. … globo - [05 Apr 2026] Donn Landee, 79, American record producer and recording engineer
Legendary recording engineer and longtime Van Halen collaborator helped shape the band’s iconic sound from the very beginning. Donn Landee, the recording engineer who played a pivotal role in crafting Van Halen’s groundbreaking sound, passed away from natural causes this past week. (Born February 26, 1947. Passed in April 2026.)… vhnd - [05 Apr 2026] David Wiffen, 84, English–Canadian folk singer-songwriter
His songs have been covered by the likes of The Cowboy Junkies, The Black Crows, The Jayhawks, Roger McGuinn, Harry Belafonte, Tom Rush, Ian & Sylvia Tyson, Jerry Jeff Walker, and The Mother Hips to name a few. Yet despite such a wide-appreciation and respect for his song-writing, English-born Canadian singer and guitarist David Wiffen is not the household name that he deserves to be…. thestrangebrew - [04 Apr 2026] Sajida Obaed, 68, Iraqi folk singer
The Iraqi Artists Syndicate mourned the passing of the renowned Iraqi folk artist, Sajida Obeid, who died on Saturday at a hospital in Erbil following a battle with illness. In its obituary statement, the Syndicate said: “With profound sorrow and grief, the Iraqi Artists Syndicate mourns the passing of the artist Sajida Obeid, who passed away today. We pray to the Almighty to envelop her in His boundless mercy and to grant patience and solace to her loved ones.”… skynewsarabia - [03 Apr 2026] Wojciech Morawski, 76, Polish drummer for Breakout
Wojciech Morawski has passed away at the age of 76. The legendary drummer was known for his work with bands such as Breakout, Perfect, and the group Morawski-Waglewski-Nowicki-Hołdys. Wojciech Morawski, a legendary drummer of Polish rock, has died at the age of 76. He co-founded the band Perfect, playing with the group until 1980. … rmf24 - [03 Apr 2026] Andrew Perry, 60, English music journalist, author and broadcaster
The music journalist, author and broadcaster Andrew Perry has passed away aged 60. A frequent contributor to MOJO and The Daily Telegraph, a veteran of Q and Select, and the writer of several acclaimed music books, ‘AP’ was a familiar face at London gigs and beloved by many across the music industry. … musicweek - [03 Apr 2026] Fred Simon, 74, American singer for The Lost Generation
R.I.P. Fred Simon, the last original member of The Lost Generation. The post on the Facebook page of the classic R&B group The New Lost Generation this afternoon gave us the bad news about group co-founder Fred Simon. … soultracks - [02 Apr 2026] James Gadson, 86, American drummer for Charles Wright
James Gadson, a prolific drummer who worked closely with Bill Withers and as a member of the widely sampled Watts 103rd Street Rhythm Band — and whose playing motored hits like Diana Ross’ “Love Hangover,” Marvin Gaye’s “I Want You” and Gloria Gaynor’s “I Will Survive” — died Thursday, according to Rolling Stone. He was 86. … latimes - [02 Apr 2026] Bo Lueders, 39, American guitarist for Harm’s Way
Guitarist of Harms Way and ½ of the HardLore Podcast Bo Lueders has passed away. Cause of death is still unknown. Lueders had spent the last 20 years playing in the Chicago hardcore outfit appearing on all the group’s studio albums, EPs and more. Lueders and co-host Colin Young launched their hardcore/punk podcast in 2022 and have since become a staple piece of documentary content for hardcore and more since. … lambgoat - [02 Apr 2026] Fernando Ríos Palacio, 87, Argentine singer
Based in Barcelona for four decades, the artist passed away this Thursday. His career led him to share the stage with major figures and to become a leading figure of tango abroad. The tango world is in mourning following news of the death of Fernando Ríos Palacio, a native of San Juan and a renowned singer who spent a large part of his career in Spain, where he had been based for over 40 years…. diariolaventana - [01 Apr 2026] Kiril Ampov, 77, Bulgarian composer and pop singer
With relatives, friends and admirers filling the St. Sedmochislenitsi Church in Sofia, Bulgaria said goodbye to one of its most beloved musicians – Kiril Ampov. Ampov passed away at the age of 77, leaving behind a rich body of work and a bright mark on Bulgarian music, as a singer, author and producer, but above all as a person whom many describe as a “bright soul”…. dariknews - [01 Apr 2026] Suki Lahav, 74, Israeli violinist for E Street Band, singer, and lyricist
Songwriter and ACUM Lifetime Achievement Award recipient dies after battle with serious illness • Wrote classics like “Days of the Dead,” “Singing in the Streets” and “On the Old Bridge” • Early in her career, she performed with Bruce Springsteen and participated in the album “Born to Run” • Her son: “She was a special woman, smart, pure-hearted and a lover of life” • The family announced that there will be no shiva and the funeral will be private… mako - [01 Apr 2026] Dalia Nausheen, 71, Bangladeshi Nazrul Sangeet singer, cancer
Ekushey Padak-winning Nazrul Sangeet exponent Dalia Nausheen has passed away. She was 71. She breathed her last at 12:57pm today (1 April) while undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Dhaka, family members confirmed…. tbsnews
March 2026
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- [31 Mar 2026] Bill Leader, 96, English record producer and engineer
I’m sorry to say that Bill Leader (1929-2026) has passed on. A legendary, remarkably modest and remarkably prolific engineer and producer of folk and traditional music from Britain and Ireland from the mid-50s to the end of the 70s (and very occasionally thereafter). Recorded history in that sphere would be unrecognisable without his herculean contribution to documenting it…. theafterword - [30 Mar 2026] Carl Bonafede, 85, American music manager for The Buckinghams and musician
Carl Bonafede, 85, of Lincoln Park, Illinois, died on March 30, 2026, after a brief illness. Born Carl Buonafede to parents Calecero Calcedonio and Antonia Lena Buonafede in Chicago’s Little Sicily, the city remained his lifetime home. The Buonafedes had immigrated with their parents from Sicily, so Carl was the first U.S. citizen born to them, as well as their only child…. cumberlandchapels - [30 Mar 2026] Walt Maddox, 88, American singer for The Marcels
He was part of a group that helped establish the golden age of doo-wop, and he continued to spread the gospel of vocal music for more than six decades. Today we say a sad goodbye to Walt Maddox of legendary vocal group The Marcels, at age 88. The news came to us via a social media post from his friend, former KDKA-TV Pittsburgh anchor Paul Martino…. soultracks - [30 Mar 2026] Mykhailo Matsialko, 79, Ukrainian singer
Ukrainian culture has suffered a loss – after a long illness, singer, People’s Artist of Ukraine Mykhailo Matsyalko passed away. On March 30, 2026, the outstanding Ukrainian artist, founder and artistic director of the Sokoly group, Mykhailo Matsyalko, died. He was 79 years old. The death of the artist after a long illness was reported by the Department of Culture and Tourism Development of the Drohobych City Council…. korrespondent - [30 Mar 2026] Christopher North, 75, American keyboardist for Ambrosia, throat cancer
Christopher North, the founding keyboardist for Ambrosia who played on their 1980 pop hit, “Biggest Part of Me,” died today (March 30, 2026, at age 75, following a long battle with throat cancer. The news was announced by the band on their Facebook page, though the location was not revealed…. bestclassicbands - [30 Mar 2026] Tony Rivers, 85, English singer for Harmony Grass
Tony Rivers has died at the age of 85. The singer was best known for fronting Tony Rivers and the Castaways and singing the theme tune for hit BBC sitcom Whatever Happened to the Likely Lads? He passed away on Wednesday, two months after he fell ill with sepsis…. mirror - [30 Mar 2026] James Stannage, 76, British radio talk show host, cancer
Manchester Local radio legend James Stannage has died at the age of 76. Stannage was known as the host of a no nonsense late-night phone-in show in the mid-1970s and appeared on Piccadilly Radio and Key 103 into the 2000s. … aboutmanchester - [30 Mar 2026] Michelangelo Zurletti, 89, Italian musicologist and essayist
Michelangelo Zurletti—a central figure in the recent history of the “A. Belli” Experimental Opera Theater in Spoleto—has died at the age of 89; the theater announced the news in a statement. Zurletti led the “Sperimentale” for forty years, contributing decisively to its artistic identity, the development of young singers, and the renewal of its repertoire…. ansa - [29 Mar 2026] Greg Elmore, 79, American drummer for Quicksilver Messenger Service
Greg Elmore, the drummer of San Francisco’s Quicksilver Messenger Service throughout the band’s initial run, died yesterday, March 29, 2026. His death was confirmed on social media by two longtime denizens of the San Francisco music scene, Steve Keyser and Mike Somavilla. No cause of place of death has yet been cited. Elmore was 79…. bestclassicbands - [29 Mar 2026] David Riondino, 73, Italian singer-songwriter, actor and writer
David Riondino passed away this morning at the age of 73 at his home in Rome. The Tuscan actor and musician, born in Florence on June 10, 1952, had been battling a serious illness for several years. The news was announced on Facebook by his friend Chiara Rapaccini—an artist, illustrator, and designer. … unionesarda - [29 Mar 2026] Williametta Spencer, 98, American composer and musicologist
Williametta Spencer passed on March 29, 2026, at the age of 98; born August 15, 1927, in Illinois, Williametta lived in Whittier, California. Williametta will be laid to rest at Rose Hills Memorial Park, 3888 Workman Mill Rd, Whittier, in Sunset Lawn, Row 9, Lot 3644, Space 3, Gate 17, with burial on April 14, 2026…. rosehills - [28 Mar 2026] DJ Dan, 57, American house music DJ and producer, heart attack
DJ Dan, the legendary house music pioneer who shaped West Coast dance culture for over 35 years, has died at age 57. Friends and fellow DJs are mourning the loss of Daniel Wherrett, one of electronic music’s most influential figures, whose iconic tracks still electrify dancefloors today. … artthreat - [28 Mar 2026] Matt Krupanski, American drummer for BoySetsFire
BoySetsFire co-founding drummer Matt Krupanski has sadly died. Krupanski originally played for Boysetsfire from their founding in 1994 to 2007 when they broke up, and then again from 2010 to 2012. We extend our deepest condolences to Krupanski’s friends and family at this time. The following is a statement from BoySetsFire: “We hate to write this. Today the BSF family lost one of our founding members, our drummer Matt Krupanski. Words are failing us. Snapshots of memories skitter through our mind. Picking him up for our first tour from high school which his parents had to give permission to leave early. … metalinjection - [27 Mar 2026] Jon Dee Graham, 67, American musician for The Skunks
For some, it began with the True Believers — or the Skunks, if you’re hardcore. The music career of Jon Dee Graham, who died Friday at 67, began when he left his studies at the University of Texas to join the Skunks, where he opened for bands like The Clash and the Ramones…. kut - [27 Mar 2026] Mahbuba Rahman, 91, Bangladeshi playback singer for Mukh O Mukhosh
Mahbuba Rahman, a pioneering playback singer and recipient of the Ekushey Padak, died on Thursday evening in Dhaka. She was 91. The veteran artiste breathed her last at around 6:15pm while undergoing treatment at a private hospital. She had been suffering from age-related complications. … thedailystar - [27 Mar 2026] Walter Savelli, 77, Italian pianist and composer
Pianist and composer Walter Savelli—a longtime collaborator of Claudio Baglioni, whom he accompanied for over twenty years—died on Friday, March 27, in Florence at the age of 77 due to complications following surgery to remove a tumor he had been undergoing treatment for since 2025. As reported by Adnkronos, the announcement of his passing was made by his family on social media. “He leaves behind a great legacy: his music, within which his very essence is encapsulated. Whenever you listen to his songs, read one of his books, or watch one of his performances, you will find him there—with his enthusiasm and his immense talent.” … repubblica - [26 Mar 2026] Ahmad Kaabour, 70, Lebanese singer
The Lebanese singer, composer and playwright Ahmad Kaabour has died at the age of 70 after an illness, his family announced on Thursday, bringing to a close a career that helped define a generation of politically engaged Arab music…. newarab - [26 Mar 2026] Ross the Boss, 72, American guitarist for Manowar, ALS
Ross “The Boss” Friedman, a founding member of both MANOWAR and THE DICTATORS, whose influence in heavy metal and punk is noticeable to this day, has died at the age of 72. His passing comes a little over a month after it was announced that he had been diagnosed with ALS, also known as known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease…. blabbermouth - [25 Mar 2026] Dash Crofts, 87, American musician for Seals & Crofts and songwriter, heart surgery
Darrell “Dash” Crofts, one half of Seals & Crofts, the ’70s yacht-rock group behind “Summer Breeze,” has died. He was 87. News of his death was confirmed by Seals & Crofts’ producer Louie Shelton in a Facebook post on Thursday, March 26. A family member told TMZ that Crofts died from complications following heart surgery. … people - [25 Mar 2026] Mick Roberts, 57, English singer for The Bridewell Taxis
Michael ‘Mick’ Roberts died peacefully in his sleep aged 57 on Wednesday (March 25), his family has confirmed. Mr Roberts was the frontman for the group The Bridewell Taxis, who formed as Morality Play in 1987 and were active until 1993 before reforming briefly in 2005…. yorkshireeveningpost - [24 Mar 2026] Gameboy Tetris, 40, Estonian rapper for 5miinust, suicide
Musician, rapper and singer Pavel Bocharov, aka Gameboy Tetris (11.03.1986–24.03.2026), has passed away at the age of 40, reports Kroonika. Bocharov was a member of the rap group Gorõ Lana, founded in 2003, where he performed under the stage name Magnum Pi. Gorõ Lana released three albums in total, the last of which was released in 2013. … archive - [24 Mar 2026] Gino Paoli, 91, Italian singer-songwriter and politician
Genoa—When an artist like Gino Paoli—who has passed away at the age of 91—leaves us, you do not ask yourself how it could have happened. Instead, you ask yourself how much you will miss him. And you discover—just moments after the devastating uncertainty of that initial sense of loss—that you will miss him precisely to the extent that you rediscover him. Once again. … ilsecoloxix - [23 Mar 2026] Erol Köse, 60, Turkish record producer
Producer Erol Köse (61), who lost his life after falling from the 16th floor of a building in Sarıyer, was laid to rest. Köse’s remains were interred at Feriköy Cemetery following the funeral prayer performed at Zincirlikuyu Mosque after the afternoon (Asr) prayer. … t24 - [23 Mar 2026] Jerry Dee Lewis, American rapper for The Cold Crush Brothers
On March 23, 2026, the hip-hop community lost one of its most vital figures from the pioneering era. Jerry Dee Lewis, known to the world as JDL, passed away, leaving behind a legacy that literally defined what an MC performance should look and sound like. As a pivotal member of the Cold Crush Brothers, JDL was not just a rapper; he was a “crowd rocker” and an innovator who helped transform hip-hop from a local Bronx subculture into a global phenomenon. … blackouthiphop - [23 Mar 2026] Shinichiro Sato, 61, Japanese rock drummer The Pillows, esophageal cancer
The band’s official website posted an announcement titled “Notice of the Passing of Shinichiro Sato,” reporting that “drummer Shinichiro Sato passed away on March 23 due to esophageal cancer while undergoing medical treatment.” The notice further stated that a funeral service had already been held, attended solely by close family members, and expressed the band’s gratitude: “We offer our heartfelt thanks to everyone who, over the years, helped make Shinichiro Sato’s musical journey so rich and vibrant.” … oricon
[23 Mar 2026] Chip Taylor, 86, American singer and songwriter, cancer
Chip Taylor, the songwriter best known for a pair of ’60s hit singles—”Wild Thing,” popularized by the Troggs, and “Angel of the Morning,” from singer Merrilee Rush—died Monday night (March 23, 2026), two days after he turned 86. The news was shared on March 24, by a variety of friends on Facebook, notably fellow songwriter and musician Billy Vera, who wrote, “With great sadness I must announce the passing of my old friend and songwriting mentor, Chip Taylor last night in hospice.” No cause or place of death was cited…. bestclassicbands- [22 Mar 2026] Ronnie Bowman, 64, American bluegrass musician for Lonesome River Band, traffic collision
Ronnie Bowman has died at Vanderbilt Hospital at roughly 3:00 p.m. today, Nashville time, after being seriously injured in a motorcycle accident yesterday afternoon in Ashland City, TN. He was 64 years of age…. bluegrasstoday - [22 Mar 2026] Sylvia Kersenbaum, 84, Argentine pianist, composer and teacher
In memory of Sylvia Kersenbaum 1941 – 2026 Sylvia Kersenbaum, age 84, passed away at her residence in Bowling Green, Kentucky on March 22nd, 2026. She was born to the late Teresa Sacchero and Oscar Kersenbaum on December 27th, 1941 in Buenos Aires, Argentina…. postandcourier - [21 Mar 2026] Daniel Buira, 54, Argentine drummer for Los Piojos
Early Saturday morning, Daniel Buira—the original drummer for Los Piojos—was found dead at his percussion school located in Morón, Buenos Aires Province. As reported this morning, judicial authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of death. The artist was 54 years old. … wehrollingstoneeartmusic - [21 Mar 2026] Steve Houben, 76, Belgian jazz saxophonist and flutist
Steve Houben’s family and loved ones announced his passing this Sunday morning. His departure, they stated, “occurred on March 21st—the first day of spring. He will leave an indelible mark on the hearts of all those who crossed his path.” Among those sharing the news was his son Gregory, himself a musician. Steve Houben had just turned 76. A native of Liège, he had also lived in Verviers…. sudinfo - [20 Mar 2026] Aref, 84, Iranian pop singer
Nazli, Aref’s daughter, announced her father’s death on social media minutes after the New Year (Nowruz 1405). The exact details of the cause of death have not yet been officially announced, but he had been suffering from cancer (a benign tumor discovered next to his appendix that required chemotherapy) since August 2025, and had talked in videos about losing 9 kilograms and his treatment process. Several rumors about his death had circulated in previous months (especially in the summer of 1404), which he or his family denied, but this time the news has been confirmed. … radiozamaneh - [20 Mar 2026] Louie Louie, 63, American singer
Singer Louie Louie, who got his start playing Madonna’s love interest in the iconic Mary Lambert-directed music video for her song “Borderline,” has died. He was 63. His brother, Ray Cordero, made the sad announcement Friday on Facebook, writing, “Louis Edmond Cordero LOUIE LOUIE 7-10-1962 3-20-2026 An amazing brother, son, friend, partner, musician, producer, band leader.” … extratv - [20 Mar 2026] Richard Phillips, 85, British music promoter
My friend Richard Phillips, who has died aged 85, was a classical music impresario with a career that included directing more than 100 arts festivals…. theguardian - [18 Mar 2026] Peter Thompson, 81, American stage publicist
Peter Thompson, who was the foremost West End stage publicist for four decades and the man who orchestrated publicity for Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cats, The Phantom of the Opera and his other hits, died Wednesday night. He was 81. His husband Stephen Barton confirmed the news to Deadline. … deadline - [17 Mar 2026] Bettina Köster, 66, German singer, musician and composer
Bettina Köster (pictured)—a renowned singer, saxophonist, and actress of German origin—passed away at the age of 67 in her home in the Laura district of Capaccio Paestum. Born in Herford, Germany, in 1959, she had settled in the “City of Temples” four years ago, captivated by the beauty of the area. She will be laid to rest tomorrow morning at 8:30 AM at the main municipal cemetery, in accordance with her final wishes…. stiletv - [17 Mar 2026] Rainelle Krause, 37, American soprano
American soprano Rainelle Krause has died at the age of 37. Her family have confirmed that she passed away on 17 March after a brief hospital stay. No cause of death has been revealed. Krause’s death comes just months after her debut at the Metropolitan Opera in December, where she appeared as the Queen of the Night in Mozart’s The Magic Flute. She had also been due to appear at Santa Fe Opera this summer…. classicfm - [16 Mar 2026] Wayne Perkins, 74, American guitarist, stroke
Wayne Perkins, an Alabama-born guitarist with ties to The Rolling Stones, died yesterday, March 18, 2026. He was 74 years old. The news was announced by his family today on social media…. aol - [16 Mar 2026] Dolores Keane, 72, Irish folk singer for De Dannan
Irish folk singer Dolores Keane has died. She was 72.The popular musician died peacefully in her sleep at her home in Caherlistrane, Co Galway overnight…. rte - [15 Mar 2026] Paki Canzi, 78, Italian singer
The singer and pianist of Nuovi Angeli passed away on Sunday, March 15, at the age of 78. Born in Milan in 1947, he was the iconic face of the beat band that sold approximately eight million records between the 1960s and 1970s. The funeral service will be held as a secular ceremony on Wednesday, March 18, at 11:00 AM at the funeral home in Vignate. News of his passing was announced via the artist’s social media channels…. sky - [15 Mar 2026] Irmeli Mäkelä, 83, Finnish pop singer
Pop singer Irmeli Mäkelä-Liikanen died in Kotka on Sunday, March 15, exhausted by a long-term illness. The singer’s husband, Johannes Liikanen, confirmed the news to Yle. … yle - [15 Mar 2026] Cinzia Oscar, 63, Italian singer and stage actress
Cinzia Oscar has died—mourning in the music world: “I died along with you, Mom,” says her son…. ilmattino.it - [14 Mar 2026] Paul Geremia, 81, American blues musician
Paul A. Geremia April 21, 1944 – March 14, 2026 … mkds
- [31 Mar 2026] Bill Leader, 96, English record producer and engineer
[13 Mar 2026] Phil Campbell, 64, Welsh guitarist for Motörhead, surgery
A statement by Phil Campbell And The Bastard Sons has announced that guitarist Phil Campbell has died aged 64. Campbell joined Motörhead in 1984 and remained a core member until the band’s end in 2015 following the death of frontman Lemmy Kilmister…. metaltalk.net
- [13 Mar 2026] Fatma Sarhan, 98, Egyptian singer
The artist Nadia Mostafa announced the passing of folk singer Fatma Sarhan via her official account on the social networking site Facebook…. elbalad.news - [12 Mar 2026] Hjálmar H. Ragnarsson, 73, Icelandic composer
Hjálmar H. Ragnarsson, composer and first rector of the Iceland Academy of the Arts, died last night, at the age of 74. Hjálmar was among the nation’s most beloved composers and a leader in the development of art in Iceland for decades…. mbl.is - [12 Mar 2026] Iulian Vrabete, 70, Romanian bassist for Holograf, cancer
Iulian Mugurel Vrabete, one of the most appreciated bassists of the local rock scene and an important member of the band Holograf, has passed away. … radioromaniacultural.ro - [10 Mar 2026] Willie Anthony Waters, 74, American opera conductor and artistic director for Connecticut Opera
Friends are reporting the death of Willie Anthony Waters, general and artistic director of Connecticut Opera (1999–2009) and music director of Florida Grand Opera (1986–1995). Willie was 74…. slippedisc.com - [10 Mar 2026] Zalek, 30, Colombian reggaeton singer, traffic collision
Colombian music is in mourning following the confirmed passing of the Barranquilla-born artist Zalek, who died this Tuesday, March 10, in a traffic accident in Medellín. The news came as a shock to the country’s music community, deeply affecting close colleagues such as Elder Dayán, Luister La Voz, and Fanny Lu…. elheraldo.co - [09 Mar 2026] Blake Emmons, 81, Canadian country singer and television host
Brought to you by Coventry Funeral Services Blake Emmons Nipawin, Saskatchewan August 2, 1944 – March 9, 2026… tributearchive.com -
[09 Mar 2026] Tommy DeCarlo, 60, American singer for Boston, brain cancer
Tommy DeCarlo, a longtime fan of the rock group Boston who landed his dream job when he was tapped to join the band after original singer Brad Delp’s death in 2007, died Monday of brain cancer in Charlotte, NC. He was 60…. deadline.com - [09 Mar 2026] Zeph Ellis, 37, British rapper
Multiple reports are suggesting that grime pioneer Dot Rotten has died. The South London born figure – real name Joseph Ellis-Stevenson – burst on to the scene as a true all-rounder, a magnetic MC and a deeply influential producer. With an incredible appetite for flipping samples, Dot Rotten also had a melodic side, one that sat alongside his skills as a battle MC… clashmusic.com - [09 Mar 2026] Gabba, British guitarist for Chaos UK
Sadly, Gabba of Chaos UK and Seats of Piss has passed away. He had previously been battling health issues but succumbed to the battle late last week. If anything else develops, we will let you know…. punknews.org - [08 Mar 2026] Mantana Morakul, 102, Thai singer and actress
We mourn the passing of National Artist Manthana Morakul—the first female vocalist of the Department of Publicity’s musical ensemble and a founding member of the Suntaraporn Band. An artist who brought the joy of music to the Thai people during the Second World War, she passed away peacefully due to old age at the age of 103 on the night of Sunday, March 8, 2026, at her home on Phutthamonthon Sai 2 Road. Her departure marks yet another profound loss with the passing of a true master artist…. naewna.com - [08 Mar 2026] Shane Rout, 53, Australian drummer for Blood Duster
Online tributes have been shared this week for Melbourne extreme metal identity Shane Rout, who died on Sunday. Rout, who was 53, was the drummer with Blood Duster in the early 90s and played on Fisting the Dead before playing in other Melbourne extreme bands like Hecatomb and Filth…. loudmag.com - [07 Mar 2026] Vidi Aldiano, 35, Indonesian singer-songwriter, kidney cancer
Singer Vidi Aldiano has passed away after a six-year battle with cancer. News of Vidi’s passing was shared by a number of celebrities via their social media accounts, including Deddy Corbuzier and musician Andi Rianto…. cnnindonesia.com - [07 Mar 2026] David Brigati, 85, American singer for Joey Dee and the Starliters
David Brigati, who was sometimes referred to as the fifth Rascal, died on 7 March. He was 85. He started his music career with the group Hi-Fives and later fronted Joey Dee and the Starliters…. ringsidereport.com - [07 Mar 2026] Donny Fattah, 76, Indonesian bassist and songwriter for God Bless, sarcopenia
Bassist and co-founder of the legendary Indonesian band God Bless, Donny Fattah (76), was known to have battled three serious illnesses before passing away on Saturday (March 7, 2026)…. kompas.com - [07 Mar 2026] Walter Martino, 72, Italian drummer for Goblin
Walter Martino—a 72-year-old figure widely renowned within the national music scene, and particularly on the Island of Elba—passed away on the morning of Saturday, March 7, at the Livorno hospital…. elbapress.it - [07 Mar 2026] Country Joe McDonald, 84, American singer and songwriter for Country Joe and the Fish, Parkinson’s disease
“Country Joe” McDonald, the lead singer, songwriter and co-founder of Country Joe and the Fish, a ’60s-era psychedelic rock group that was a fixture of the San Francisco Bay Area music scene, died yesterday (March 7, 2026). His passing, at age 84 of Parkinson’s, in Berkeley, Calif., was shared with Best Classic Bands by a source close to his wife, Kathy…. bestclassicbands.com - [07 Mar 2026] Augie Meyers, 85, American musician for Sir Douglas Quintet
Augie Meyers, a founding member of the Sir Douglas Quintet who provided the distinctive organ riff on their first hit single, 1965’s #13 “She’s About a Mover,” and later re-teamed with that band’s leader Doug Sahm to form the Tejano supergroup Texas Tornados in the late ’80s, died Saturday, March 7, 2026. The news of his passing, at age 85 with his wife Sara at his side, was announced on his Facebook page on March 9…. bestclassicbands.com - [06 Mar 2026] Jan Lenferink, 80, Dutch radio and television presenter
Former TV presenter Jan Lenferink passed away on Friday at the age of eighty. His family announced the news to the press agency ANP. Lenferink worked as a Dutch teacher before rising to fame in the 1970s as a radio presenter, working for broadcasters such as the VPRO. Later, he became best known for the television program *RUR*—an acronym for *Rechtstreeks uit Richter* (Direct from Richter)…. nu.nl - [05 Mar 2026] Jacques Michel, 84, Canadian musician and songwriter
Singer-songwriter Jacques Michel passed away today following a three-year battle with illness. He was 84 years old. He leaves behind an impressive discography: 300 compositions, including the hits *Amène-toi chez nous* and *Un nouveau jour va se lever*…. radio-canada.ca - [05 Mar 2026] Mihail Secichin, 82, Moldovan pianist, director of Maria Bieșu National Opera and Ballet Theatre
Conductor and People’s Artist of the Republic of Moldova, Mihail Secichin, has passed away The renowned pianist and conductor, People’s Artist of Moldova, Mihail Secichin, who dedicated his entire life to music and art, leaving behind an impressive legacy, students and numerous grateful admirers, has passed away…. aquarelle.md - [04 Mar 2026] Bernard Rands, 92, British-American composer
Bernard Rands, the distinguished British composer long resident in the USA, most recently in Chicago, has died there on March 4, 2026, at the age of 92 in the company of his wife Augusta Read Thomas, herself a prominent composer. He leaves behind a catalogue of nearly 100 pieces, widely performed and recorded, all published by Schott, as well as an enormous and varied list of students… schott-music.com - [03 Mar 2026] Roy Book Binder, 82, American blues musician
Singer and guitarist Roy Book Binder, a longtime favorite on America’s folk music circuit and a three-decade resident of St. Petersburg, died Tuesday after a long illness. He was 82. A raconteur and storyteller, Book Binder was renowned for his “Carolina style” acoustic guitar fingerpicking on blues, old-time country and ragtime songs. From the 1960s to the 1990s, he was playing 200 one-nighters every year, touring the country in a tricked-out sleeper van. He was also known for his dry onstage humor…. stpetecatalyst.com - [03 Mar 2026] Gustav Gunsenheimer, 91, German composer and church music director
The memorial service for the Schweinfurt composer, church musician, conductor, and educator will take place on Friday, March 20, at 10 a.m. at the Deutschfeld Cemetery…. mainpost.de - [03 Mar 2026] Zsolt Kerestely, 91, Romanian composer and conductor
Throughout his career, Kerestély has signed over 700 songs, many of them becoming real hits of Romanian music…. mediafax -
[02 Mar 2026] Len Garry, 84, English musician for The Quarrymen, pneumonia
The Quarrymen’s Len Garry dies aged 84 as tributes paid to legend who played with Lennon and McCartney The star, who was in the band which evolved into the Beatles, was recently admitted to hospital … liverpoolecho - [02 Mar 2026] Mike Vernon, 81, English record producer, music executive and recording studio owner for Chipping Norton Recording Studios
The music world is in mourning today following the announcement of the passing of legendary record producer, label founder, and blues champion Mike Vernon. The news was shared by his family via Vernon’s official social media channels. Born Michael William Hugh Vernon on November 20, 1944, Vernon passed away on March 2, 2026, at the age of 81…. mnprmagazine - [01 Mar 2026] Bob Power, 74, American record producer and audio engineer
Bob Power, a renowned music engineer and record producer, has passed away. He was 74. DJ Premier confirmed the news of Power’s passing in a post on social media, lauding him for his work on numerous classic albums…. wbls -
[01 Mar 2026] J. Strauss, Swedish singer and musician for Morlocks
Last April, Morlocks warned us: his singer Johann Strauss had an inoperable brain tumor that would eventually kill him. The news that was feared and that, in the words of his accomplice and guitarist Innocentius Rabiatus could arrive “in a year as in several years” arrived: Johann is no longer, he died on March 1st…. verdammnis - [01 Mar 2026] Gary Walker, 83, American musician for The Standells, stroke
In the United States, Gary Walker has died after a stroke. The singer and drummer, born Gary Leeds (9 March 1942, Glendale), was 83 years old. He was the last living member of The Walker Brothers; John died in 2011, Scott in 2019…. hitzound
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See also: Musicians and singers who died in 2026, Musicians and singers who died in 2025, Musicians who died in 2024, Musicians who died in 2023, Musicians who died in 2022, Comic Book creators who died in 2022, Musicians who died in 2021, Musicians who died in 2020, Musicians who died in 2019, Musicians who died in 2018, Musicians who died in 2017, and Musicians who died in 2016.





Please Update!
Lalo Shiffrin is forgotten
Where is the Update?
Foday Musa Suso died May 25. As of June 4 still not listed!
Larry Lee passed away May 10, 2025.
It looks like you missed Larry Lee. Larry was one of the lead vocalists and the drummer for the Ozark Mountain Daredevils. He sang and co-wrote their biggest hit, “Jackie Blue”, released in 1974, which peaked at #3 on The Billboard Hot 100. He was the drummer on their 2nd biggest hit, “If You Wanna Get To Heaven”, which hit the U.S. Top 40 in 1974, peaking at #25. “You Know Like I Know” and “If I Only Knew”, both sung by and either written or co-written by Larry Lee, charted on The Hot 100 in 1976 and 1977, respectively. He also co-wrote, but did not sing, “Take You Tonight”, which peaked at #67 on the U.S. Pop Chart in 1980. He was a major contributor to the eclectic sound of the Daredevils. To hear the breadth and scope of his talent, just listen to the 1974 masterpiece from the Ozark Mountain Daredevils’ eponymous debut album – the totally sublime, “Spaceship Orion”, also written and sung by Larry.
good site good admin
Nana Caymmi (01 may) is spelled with an ‘i’ at the end
March 6 – Andy Williams aka Yam WHo? – DJ, producer and co-founder/label head of Midnight Riot
It’s worth noting that sadly the highly regarded singer songwriter Bill Fay passed away on February 22, 2025. His excellent debut album was released on Nova / Decca (UK) February 1970.
Roberta Flack?
Hi! Your link “https://weheartmusic.typepad.com/blog/musicians-who-died-in-2024.html” is not working. It would be nice if you can fix it.
Thanks!
Slovenian drummer Marko Doles for band Ana Pupedan has died, he was 50, hiking accident
https://www.rtvslo.si/kultura/glasba/umrl-je-marko-doles-ustanovni-clan-skupine-ana-pupedan/734607
How could the highly revered Zakir Hussain who died December 15 still not be listed? This man was prolific & legendary. Huge oversight, please correct.
Zakir Hussain dead dec 15, 2024. Indian percussion 616k Spotify followers
The poet, writer, commentator and activist, Nikki Giovanni, has passed away at 81 years old (June 7, 1943 – Dec 9, 2024)
http://www.soulwalking.co.uk/Respect.html
The poet, writer, commentator and activist, Nikki Giovanni, has passed away at 81 years old.
Jerome (Dutch DJ/producer) passed away at the age of 53 (jun 16, 1971 – dec 22, 2024)
Bass player and Brainstorm member Lamont Johnson passed away at the age of 69 (april 20, 1955 – nov 27, 2024
Linda LaFlamme, the songwriter and keyboardist for “It’s A Beautiful Day”, passed away October 23, 2024. She was a founding member of the band and co-wrote the 1960’s anthem, “White Bird”, along with her then husband, David LaFlamme, who sang and played violin in the band. It was released on the band’s debut album in 1969. Other songs made popular by “It’s A Beautiful Day” included “Don & Dewey” and “Hot Summer Day”.
Hey, Music.typepad. you forgot Anvil, guitarist Dave Allison died (Sept. 30) of unspecified causes at age 68. He played on the group’s first five studio albums before departing in 1989.
Thanks
Carlos A. A.
Hans van Hemert is mentioned twice whereas this post:
‘[07 Oct 2024] Hans van Hemert (American singer for The Sweet Inspirations), 91, Alzheimer’s disease’
is false. The other one is correct. Please delete the false one.
thank you
This used to be a great source for up to date info on recently deceased musicians but it looks like it only gets updated once a month now & is not nearly as complete as it used to be. Pretty sad because it used to be the best source online…..
[03 Oct 2024] Jack Colwell (Australian singer, songwriter, musician)
https://www.theguardian.com/music/2024/oct/05/remembering-jack-colwell-an-astonishing-musical-talent-and-a-generous-and-loyal-friend
Wikipedia is making y’all look bad 🤣 better catch up ! https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_2024_deaths_in_popular_music
Billy Swann,bass player of the DC band The Muffins passed away August 26.
This is the reason John Mayall deserves a yellow highlight.
The documentary “The Godfather of British Blues”
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=2xpsqfe73n4.
He deserves more recognition.
“Broken Wings”
This is the reason John Mayall deserves a yellow highlight!
Link below is to his documentary “Godfather Of British Blues”
He contributed more to music than Shifty Shellshock. Really. A yellow highlight for Shifty??? Butterfly??? Really???
John Mayall deserves a yellow highlight.
He was one of the guiding lights of the British blues movement in the early to mid-1960s.
He is celebrated for the musicians he attracted into his band, the Bluesbreakers. Through his patronage of several important guitarists, notably Eric Clapton, Peter Green, and Mick Taylor, he exerted an indirect but considerable influence on the course of rock music.
“So Many Roads”
Rest In Peace.
Martin Phillips (The Chills) New Zealand
https://www.1news.co.nz/2024/07/28/dunedin-icon-the-chills-frontman-martin-phillipps-dead-at-61/#:~:text=Dunedin%20musician%20and%20The%20Chills,advise%20Martin%20has%20died%20unexpectedly%22.
Ulf Dageby Swedish singe died 16 july
Evelyn Thomas dies today aged 70
Dave Loggins should be recognized with a yellow highlight. The popularity of “Please Come To Boston” is significant enough to merit the added recognition, but the annual spotlight of “The Masters” golf tournament featuring his song, “Augusta”, should make it a no-brainer.
According to RC Frank Ified died May 18 Really worth to mention.
Clarence “Frogman” Henry Died April 7
One of the greatest session musicians of the latter half of the 20th century and into the 21st, David Sanborn passed away May 12, 2024. The alto saxophonist was a highly regarded session player from the late 1960s onwards, playing with an array of well-known artists, such as James Brown, Bryan Ferry, Michael Stanley, Eric Clapton, Bobby Charles, Cat Stevens, Roger Daltrey, Stevie Wonder, Paul Simon, Jaco Pastorius, the Brecker Brothers, Michael Franks, Kenny Loggins, Casiopea, Players Association, David Bowie, Todd Rundgren, Bruce Springsteen, Little Feat, Tommy Bolin, Bob James, James Taylor, Al Jarreau, Pure Prairie League, Kenny G, Loudon Wainwright III, George Benson, Joe Beck, Donny Hathaway, Elton John, Gil Evans, Carly Simon, Guru, Linda Ronstadt, Billy Joel, Kenny Garrett, Roger Waters, Steely Dan, Ween, the Eagles, Grateful Dead, Nena, Hikaru Utada, The Rolling Stones, Ian Hunter, and Toto. He certainly deserves recognition here (a yellow “special recognition” banner would not be inappropriate).
Muere John Pisano quién abarcó siete décadas y compartió escenario o estudio de grabación con muchos artistas de jazz, incluidos Chico Hamilton, Herb Alpert, Peggy Lee, Frank Sinatra, Benny Goodman, su amigo Joe Pass y muchos guitarristas destacados del negocio.
Not a single musician has died in April 2024 ! Amazzzzzzing !!!
Apparently, nobody in music has died in April yet.
Ummmmm. It’s been 3 weeks since this was updated. Wtf ? 😭
Eric Carmen passed away this weekend (March 10 or 11). He scored a couple of hits in the late ‘60’s with his band, The Raspberries, including “Go All The Way” and “Overnight Sensation (Hit Record)”. In the ‘70’s he had hits with “All By Myself” and “Never Gonna Fall In Love Again”. In 1987 he struck gold again with “Hungry Eyes” from the Dirty Dancing Soundtrack. He also had success writing for other artists, evidenced by the hit, “Almost Paradise”, which he co-wrote in 1984 for Mike Reno (Loverboy) & Ann Wilson (Heart). He was 74.
Jim Beard, a solo artist and touring keyboardist for Steely Dan for the past 16 years has died at age 63.
Bobby Tench, who was a British vocalist, guitarist, sideman, songwriter and arranger, passed away February 19, 2024. He was Jeff Beck’s lead vocalist on the 1971 Jeff Beck Group album, “Rough And Ready”. In addition he appeared on albums by Ginger Baker, Freddie King, Streetwalkers, Widowmaker, Van Morrison, Humble Pie, Topper Headon, as well as, many others.
British composer Laurie Johnson passes away on January 16th!
country-singer Toby Keith
Lead singer Tony Middleton of the Willows passed away 02/04/2024. The Willows were a doo wop group that had a hit with “Church Bells May Ring” in 1956.
Clarel Betsy Mauritian singer and compose. 8 Février à 72 ans
Who ARE these people who post these deaths?
The great Aston Barrett is represented by a generic Bob Marley album
and the link goes to a romance novel author.
You people…
https://dubstorerecords.bandcamp.com/track/soul-constitution
Wow. Not only is the picture for Steve Brown an album cover of the jazz musician Steve Brown (who is still alive), but the link takes you to the author(s) Steve Brown.
David Soul: Don’t give up on us, 1977 #1 hit. https://www.rollingstone.com/tv-movies/tv-movie-news/david-soul-starsky-and-hutch-actor-soft-rock-singer-dead-obituary-1234940769/amp/