October 16, 2026

Musicians and singers who died in 2026

 

July 2026
  1. [31 July 2026] Jerney Kaagman, 79, Dutch singer (Earth and Fire), Parkinson’s disease
  2. [31 July 2026] Pepe Villalobos, 96, Peruvian musician and composer
  3. [31 July 2026] Glenn A. Baker, 74, Australian rock music journalist for Billboard, stroke
  4. [31 July 2026] Jeff Conolly, 69, American rock musician for Lyres
  5. [30 July 2026] K. Jamuna Rani, 88, Indian playback singer for Valayapathi, Gulebakavali, Seda Sulang
  6. [30 July 2026] Gunnar Þórðarson, 81, Icelandic musician and songwriter
  7. [29 July 2026] Arlene Smith, 84, American singer for The Chantels
  8. [29 July 2026] Javier Martín del Campo, 75, Mexican musician for La Revolución de Emiliano Zapata
    The Mexican musician Javier Martín del Campo “Javis”, founder, guitarist, voice and composer of the group “La Revolución de Emiliano Zapata”, died, as reported by the Society of Authors and Composers of Mexico (SACM). Through a message, the organization mourned the death of the artist and highlighted the mark he left on Mexican rock with his compositions. “His creative spirit left an indelible mark on Mexican rock. As a composer, he gave life to songs like ‘My best gift’, ‘Everything yours’ and ‘My way of feeling’, works that are part of the musical memory of several generations,” said the SACM. (source)
  9. [29 July 2026] Glen Hansard, 56, Irish musician for The Frames and actor on Once, traffic collision
    We’ve very sadly lost prolific and influential Irish singer-songwriter Glen Hansard, who died in a motorcycle crash in a single-vehicle accident, just west of Dublin, at the age of 56, as confirmed by his representation, ATC Management. The statement reads in part, “Glen’s family is deeply shocked and heartbroken by this tragic loss and respectfully requests privacy at this extremely difficult time. The family is grateful for the support they have received and wishes to thank the emergency services who attended the scene. As this matter remains the subject of an active Garda investigation, no further comment will be made at this time.” Hansard fronted rock band The Frames as well as was part of the duo, The Swell Season, who along with Markéta Irglová, won the Academy Award for Best Original Song (“Falling Slowly”) at the 80th annual ceremony in Feb 2008. We had met the pair in Minneapolis, a couple months after the Oscar win, following a show in town, and found them both extremely charming, friendly, and still gobsmacked from their win. (source)
  10. [28 July 2026] Geraldine Bey, 91, American jazz singer and concert organiser for Chicago Jazz Festival
  11. [28 July 2026] Konrad Beikircher, 80, Italian-born German cabaret artist, musician and author
  12. [28 July 2026] Ray Gómez, 73, Spanish guitarist for Pop-Tops
  13. [28 July 2026] Kavinsky, 50, French DJ, musician and actor
    The artist, who notably performed during the closing ceremony of the Paris Olympic Games in 2024 with the Belgian singer Angèle, died at the age of 50, we learned this Wednesday. Kavinsky, whose real name is Vincent Belorgey, died at the age of 50, Le Parisien learned this Wednesday, July 29. According to our information, the artist was found dead at his Parisian home on Tuesday evening. The French DJ, a figure in the electro scene, was particularly known for having produced the title “Nightcall” for the soundtrack of the film Drive, released in 2011. (source)
  14. [28 July 2026] Vassil Kazandjiev, 91, Bulgarian composer
  15. [26 July 2026] Joel Cohen, 84, American musician
  16. [26 July 2026] Frank Tusa, 79, American bassist and composer
  17. [25 July 2026] Marie-Paule Belle, 80, French singer, breast cancer
  18. [25 July 2026] Leonid Margolin, 68, Russian musician
  19. [24 July 2026] Loren Nerell, 65, American composer
  20. [24 July 2026] Lou Koller, 59, American punk rock singer for Sick of It All, esophageal cancer
    Sick Of It All frontman Lou Koller has died, following a long fight against oesophageal cancer. His bandmates made the announcement on Instagram, saying, “It’s with unbelievable sadness that we announce to our worldwide hardcore family the passing of our brother Lou Koller. The level of loss that we feel at this time is overwhelming. “This year would have marked Sick of it All’s 40th anniversary as a band, and Lou’s camaraderie, commitment and enthusiasm were always steadfast throughout the years. We have lost a beloved friend and an iconic frontman. Lou had the power to raise everyone’s spirits at our shows with a smile and a sarcastic comment, and he won people over wherever we played, from every culture and every corner of the world. (source)
  21. [23 July 2026] Herng-Yu Elen Pan, Taiwanese-French double bassist for BBC Symphony Orchestra
    The Taiwanese-French double bassist, Herng-Yu Elen Pan first began music studies on piano at the age of 4, and began playing the double bass at age 10. She later graduated from the Conservatoire National Supérieur de Musique de Paris and the Universität für Musik und Darstellende Kunst Wien. In 2015, then director of the Paris Conservatory, Bruno Mantovani, described Pan’s playing as “particularly brilliant and versatile,” and that “she is very soon becoming one of the most remarkable double bassists of her generation.” Pan had played regularly from 2012 with major orchestras in France, including the Orchestre Philharmonique de Radio France, Orchestre National de France, Orchestre de Chambre de Paris, Ensemble Intercontemporain, ensemble 2e2m, and many more. (source)
  22. [23 July 2026] John Miles, 64, American singer and songwriter for Wave Avenue
    A 64-year-old man has died after he was hit by a car while crossing the street in a mobility scooter in Newport. Officers were called to the intersection Memorial Boulevard and Chapel Street just after 10:30 p.m. Wednesday after receiving reports of a man in a motorized scooter lying in the middle of the sidewalk. Police said the victim, identified as John Miles, was discovered lying in the median near the intersection after being thrown from his scooter. Miles was flown to Rhode Island Hospital in critical condition, where he later died, according to police. Investigators believe Miles was in the crosswalk when an oncoming truck hit him, throwing the scooter 30 feet away. (source)
  23. [23 July 2026] Black Ice, American R&B poet and recording Def Jam artist
    Black Ice, the Philadelphia poet whose thunderous delivery helped take spoken word from underground stages to HBO and Broadway, has died. Born Lamar Manson, the Def Poetry Jam standout became one of the most powerful voices in performance poetry, delivering sharp examinations of race, history, identity, and survival. His cause of death has not yet been made public. As Def Jam Records’ first signed poet, Black Ice released the 2006 album The Death of Willie Lynch, collaborated with artists like Musiq Soulchild and DJ Jazzy Jeff, and later taught young writers to confront their realities through poetry. (source)
  24. [23 July 2026] William McGlaughlin (Bill McGlaughlin), 82, American composer and radio host for Exploring Music
    The composer, conductor, educator and radio host Bill McGlaughlin has died. He was 82. McGlaughlin hosted “Exploring Music,” a syndicated classical music radio program that aired nationwide, including on Classical IPR. He had recently stepped down as host. In a post on her Facebook page, jazz musician Karrin Allyson wrote, “It is with deep sorrow that I announce the passing of my beloved partner, Bill McGlaughlin. In this season of grief, I am grateful for your kindness, your prayers, and the privacy to honor a life deeply loved and forever remembered.” (source)
  25. [23 July 2026] Asteryth Sloane, 26, British composer
    We are deeply saddened to hear the news that composer and RNCM alum Asteryth Sloane has died at the age of 26. Asteryth completed both a Bachelor of Music in Composition, graduating with First Class honours, and a Master’s degree in Composition and Musicology, graduating with Distinction, at the RNCM, studying with Professor Emily Howard. In 2025, they were awarded RNCM Associate Membership in recognition of their outstanding achievements in the music profession. Their unique compositional methods and creativity led to a number of accolades, including winning the Cambridge Young Composer of the Year Competition in 2016, the senior category of the BBC Proms Inspire Young Composers’ Competition in 2018 for their piece Elegy for Aylan, and a commission from the Royal Philharmonic Society to mark Classic FM’s 25th birthday celebrations. (source)
  26. [22 July 2026] Shir-Mohammad Espandar, 98, Iranian musician
    Shir Mohammad Espandar, a prominent figure in Balochistan music and a master of the donli, passed away on Wednesday, July 21, at the age of 98. He spent most of his artistic life introducing and preserving the music of Balochistan, and with his unique style of playing the donli, he became one of the most well-known representatives of the music of the Iranian regions. He was born in 1927 in Bampur, Balochistan. He first learned to play the ney from his father, but as a teenager he traveled to Pakistan to study music. There he was introduced to the donli instrument and learned to play it simply by watching its players perform. (source)
  27. [22 July 2026] Oliver Jones, 91, Canadian jazz pianist
    Oliver Jones, a towering figure in the Montreal jazz scene, died on Wednesday at the age of 91, following a career spanning more than 80 years. The news was confirmed late Wednesday evening in a brief statement posted on Facebook by his family and the record label Justin Time Records. Oliver Theophilus Jones was born on September 11, 1934, in Little Burgundy, a neighborhood in southwest Montreal now hemmed in between the Lachine Canal and the Ville-Marie Expressway. Introduced to the piano at a very early age, he made his public debut at five at Union United Church, which was then the hub of social life for Montreal’s Black community. (source)
  28. [22 July 2026] Luís Represas, 69, Portuguese singer and composer
    The Portuguese artist has died at the age of 69, after a long battle with illness. Luís Represas died this Wednesday at the age of 69. The artist’s death was confirmed by the agency Sons em Trânsito, in a statement as reported by RTP. The singer is believed to have died after a long illness. According to the statement, the Portuguese artist, who this year was marking 50 years of his career, had planned “unforgettable moments with Trovante and, on his own, with hits that span generations”. (source)
  29. [21 July 2026] Brian Doerksen, 60, Canadian Christian singer-songwriter, cancer
    Brian Doerksen dies after battle with Stage 4 cancer. Canadian Christian worship artist Brian Doerksen has died peacefully at his family home on Tuesday morning. His family shared the news on social media saying, “On July 21, at 6:45 a.m., our Beloved Brian passed away peacefully in his sleep at his family home, surrounded by those who loved him most.” The news comes after his family asked for prayers after he was diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer. “Till the very end, Brian continued to love those around him, encouraging them in who they are, and shared incredible gratitude to those in the medical field who tried their best to help him. (source)
  30. [21 July 2026] Olivera Katarina, 86, Serbian actress and singer
    Legendary actress Olivera Katarina has passed away at the age of 87, her family announced. The famous artist passed away after a short illness, reports Nova.rs. She will be remembered as one of the greatest acting stars of Yugoslavia, and her most important roles were in the films “Soldier”, “There is Love, There is No Love”, and “Partizani”, but she was best known as Lenče in the 1967 film “The Feather Pickers”, for which she was awarded at the Cannes Film Festival. In addition to acting, she also dabbled in music, mostly singing original folk and Roma songs. (source)
  31. [20 July 2026] Ray King (Rai King), 87, Caribbean-born singer
    Tributes have been paid to Ray King, one of the most influential singers in the ska and 2 Tone music genres, following the announcement of his death. Born Vibert Cornwall in St Vincent and the Grenadines, he came to the UK in 1961 and arrived in Northampton, before moving to Coventry two years later, after being told it was the place to become a singer. Pete Chambers, the founder of the Coventry Music Museum, said King had a stage presence “like James Brown”. “He was the kind of guy who controlled the stage with just one look, one little movement of the arm or whatever. He was a real professional and such a lovely guy and an influential guy.” (source)
  32. [20 July 2026] Hany Shenouda, 83, Egyptian composer, arranger and musician
    Egyptian composer, arranger and musician Hany Shenouda, one of the architects of modern Egyptian music whose work transformed Arabic pop and helped launch the careers of some of the region’s biggest stars, died on Monday at the age of 83. His death was announced by Egyptian television presenter Mahmoud Saad, while the Musicians’ Syndicate paid tribute to Shenouda as one of the country’s foremost musical figures, ending a career that spanned more than six decades. Born in the Nile Delta city of Tanta in 1943, Shenouda graduated from the Faculty of Music Education in 1966 before continuing his studies at the Cairo Conservatoire, combining formal musical training with an appetite for experimentation that would redefine the sound of Egyptian popular music. (source)
  33. [20 July 2026] Claudio Strunz, 59, Argentine thrash metal drummer for Hermética
    Claudio “Pato” Strunz, one of the most influential drummers in the history of Argentine heavy metal and member of the classic Hermética group, died this Monday at the age of 59. The artist made a transcendental mark on the metal scene when he joined Hermética in 1991, with which he recorded the albums Ácido Argentino and Víctimas del Vaciamiento. After the dissolution of the band, in 1995 he founded Malón together with Claudio O’Connor, Antonio Romano and Karlos Cuadrado, a group with which he released albums such as Espíritu Combativo and Justicia o Resistencia. Considered a reference by several generations of drummers, Strunz was the protagonist of some of the most important chapters of national heavy metal. He made history by leading projects such as Simbiosis and, recently, promoted the show “Hermética x Pato Strunz”, dedicated to keeping the legacy of the historic band alive. (source)
  34. [18 July 2026] Jennifer Finch, 59, American musician for L7, brain cancer
    Jennifer Finch, the beloved bassist, vocalist and songwriter for the groundbreaking band L7, passed away today following an aggressive form of brain cancer. She was 59. A musician, photographer, writer and multidisciplinary artist, Jennifer was also a deeply loved partner, daughter, sister, bandmate and friend. Her impact on L7, the Los Angeles punk community, and generations of musicians and fans was profound. The extraordinary outpouring of love and support shown to Jennifer and those caring for her has meant more than words can express. Those closest to her have requested privacy and space to grieve during this extraordinarily difficult time. (source)
  35. [18 July 2026] Gianni Cazzola, 88, Italian jazz drummer, heart attack
    The world of jazz says goodbye to Gianni Cazzola, historic drummer and one of the most authoritative interpreters of the Italian scene. The musician died at the age of 88 after falling ill while performing on stage at the Gemia Swing Club in Busto Arsizio, in the province of Varese. The alarm went off immediately during the concert. The 118 health workers intervened on the scene and, after initial treatment, transported Cazzola to hospital. For the drummer, however, there was nothing that could be done: he died shortly after hospitalisation. The news was broken by his friend and colleague Tullio De Piscopo, who posted a very emotional message on social media: “Bastard news that tore my heart.” Recalling a friendship that began in 1965 and the many shared artistic collaborations, he added: “Your rhythm, your smile and your humanity will remain forever in the hearts of all musicians. Hi Gianni, keep improvising even from up there.” (source)
  36. [18 July 2026] Salah Farzit, 73, Tunisian singer and composer
    Popular Tunisian artist Salah Farzit has died, leaving behind a rich musical legacy that has deeply marked the national artistic landscape. A key figure in mezoued since the 1970s, he was considered one of the main architects of the modernization of this musical genre while remaining faithful to its popular roots. Throughout his career, Salah Farzit has established himself thanks to a singular voice and a repertoire that has become emblematic of Tunisian popular song. Among his most famous works is “Irdha Alina Ya Lommima”, which has become a true popular anthem over the decades. His journey was also marked by his artistic commitment and the difficulties encountered due to the marginalization of the mezoued during certain periods of Tunisian cultural history. (source)
  37. [18 July 2026] Jim Gilstrap, 79, American soul singer
    He didn’t possess a household name, but his voice was a part of the lives of millions of people around the world. Today we mourn the passing of powerful singer Jim Gilstrap at age 79. His family announced his passing on social media this morning. The Texas-born singer became one of the most dependable background vocalists of the 1970s, lending his smooth, expressive tenor to recordings by many of the era’s biggest stars. After serving in the military, Gilstrap began his professional career with the Doodletown Pipers and later joined Stevie Wonder’s celebrated backing group, Wonderlove. He appeared on the landmark albums Talking Book and Innervisions and memorably sang the opening lines of Wonder’s classic “You Are the Sunshine of My Life.” He also shared lead vocals on the familiar theme song from the television series Good Times. (source)
  38. [18 July 2026] Chen Gang, 91, Chinese composer for Butterfly Lovers’ Violin Concerto
    Renowned composer and Shanghai Conservatory of Music professor Chen Gang passed away in Shanghai in the early hours of July 18 at the age of 91. Born in 1935, Chen Gang entered the Composition Department of the Shanghai Conservatory of Music in 1955. In May 1959, the violin concerto *The Butterfly Lovers*—composed by He Zhanhao and Chen Gang and performed by Yu Lina—premiered in Shanghai. Since then, the work has become a signature piece of Chinese symphonic music and remains the most frequently performed Chinese composition on the global stage. (source)
  39. [18 July 2026] Tony Thorpe, 80, English guitarist and singer for The Rubettes
    A celebrated guitarist and musician who found fame as a member of The Rubettes in the seventies has died. Tony Thorpe was a regular on Top Of The Pops and the band had nine Top 40 singles including a number one, Sugar Baby Love. After four years touring the world, guitarist Tony called it a day and left behind the music business to settle in Burnley and later retired to Poulton-le-Fylde. He first became a journalist and then a tutor on the access to music course at Blackburn College. Tony was 80 and was due to turn 81 this month. An official announcement read: “It is with great sadness that we officially announce the passing of Anthony John Thorpe. He was a father to Clay, a husband to Shirle, a friend to many, and a mentor to countless musicians young and old. (source)
  40. [17 July 2026] Freddy Cannon, 89, American singer, cancer
    Freddy Cannon, a veteran of the early rock scene whose hits of the late ’50s and early ’60s included the top 10 hits “Palisades Park,” “Tallahassee Lassie” and “Way Down Yonder in New Orleans,” died Friday at 89. A representative said Cannon, who lived in Oxnard, California, died at a hospice facility after very recently being diagnosed with cancer, as confirmed by his longtime friend, iHeart Radio’s Tom Cuddy. Cannon had been scheduled to do “what would have been his final interview” on July 11 with legendary DJ “Cousin Brucie” Morrow, but he ended up being taken to the hospital the day before. (source)
  41. [16 July 2026] Alan Walden, 83, American music manager and record label founder for Capricorn Records
    Longtime Macon music manager, booking agent and publisher Alan Walden has died at the age of 83. Walden died Thursday morning while in hospice care as a result of an illness, his wife, Tosha Walden, confirmed that afternoon. Walden helped put Macon and numerous musicians on the map in the music industry, signing dozens of artists. Over the years, Walden managed careers for Lynyrd Skynyrd, the Outlaws and early on, Otis Redding. During those years, Walden and Redding worked closely together, forming a friendship (source)
  42. [15 July 2026] Plas Johnson, 94, American soul-jazz saxophonist
    A pioneering jazz musician, known for one of the most famous saxophone solos in music history, has died. Plas Johnson died July 15 at his home in Los Angeles, multiple outlets report. He was 94. Johnson is perhaps best known for performing the iconic tenor saxophone solo on Henry Mancini’s 1963 “The Pink Panther Theme,” which remains one of the most famous saxophone solos in music history. He was also one of the most sought-after session musicians of the 20th century, recording with artists like Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, Marvin Gaye, Peggy Lee and B.B. King. A versatile musician, Johnson also performed on alto and baritone sax, as well as other woodwind instruments. (source)
  43. [15 July 2026] Trevor Elliott, 74, American music producer for Edi Fitzroy
    Trevor Elliott, a music producer who had chart success during the early 1980s with singer Edi Fitzroy, died in Florida on July 5. He was 74 years old. His family confirmed his death by posting on social media. Elliott was an employee of the state-run Jamaica Information Service in the late 1970s when he got into music production with his Music Ambassador label. It was during that period he met Edi Fitzroy, a roots artiste who worked as an accountant with the Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation, another government organisation. Their partnership was fruitful, producing three big hits for Fitzroy — The Gun, Check For You Once and Princess Black. In a 2017 interview with the Jamaica Observer, shortly after Fitzroy’s death, Elliott spoke about their friendship. (source)
  44. [14 July 2026] Dave Kendall, 68, British VJ for 120 Minutes and DJ for SiriusXM
    Dave Kendall, the British VJ who helped bring the sounds of the alternative rock nation into millions of homes in the late 1980s and early 1990s as the host and guiding force behind MTV‘s influential 120 Minutes, has died at age 68. The news was shared by fellow former MTV talking head and 120 Minutes host Matt Pinfield, who paid tribute to his friend and colleague in a post on Tuesday (July 14). “Dave was one of the true believers,” wrote Pinfield on Instagram. “Long before alternative music found its way into the mainstream, he was there every week on 120 Minutes, introducing people to bands that would go on to define an era. He didn’t just host a show. He gave a home to music that deserved to be heard. He loved the music, respected the artists, and connected with fans in a way that always felt authentic. That’s a rare gift.” Pinfield gave no cause of death. (source)
  45. [14 July 2026] Fantan Mojah, 49, Jamaican reggae singer, heart complications
    Reggae singer Fantan Mojah has died aged 49, just three weeks before his 50th birthday. The Rastafarian firebrand is said to have passed away on Tuesday evening at the University Hospital of the West Indies in Kingston after suffering complications related to his heart. A close associate of Fantan told Observer Online that the entertainer’s health deteriorated rapidly in the days before his death. “Since he came back from the United States, he was hearty, but over the past week he started to ‘tek down’ and he was admitted to the UHWI,” booking agent Vertex said. “Last night, he was vomiting blood, and that was it. He passed away.” (source)
  46. [14 July 2026] Little Gerhard, 92, Swedish singer, musician and songwriter
    Karl-Gerhard “Little Gerhard” Lundkvist is dead. The rock icon died on Tuesday night, something his wife Theptong Lundkvist confirms to Aftonbladet. He was 92 years old so he was old. Swedish rock icon Karl-Gerhard “Little Gerhard” Lundkvist is dead. He died last night, something his wife Theptong Lundkvist confirms to Aftonbladet. My husband died last night at 00.42. He was 92 years old so he was old, says Theptong Lundkvist. (source)

    47. — Totsakan —
  47. [13 July 2026] Din (Thitiwat Kaewkanha), Thailanese singer for Totsakan, Bangkok bar fire
  48. [13 July 2026] Breeze (Nahatai Sajjalert), Thailanese singer for Totsakan, Bangkok bar fire
  49. [13 July 2026] Kwang (Preutthipong), Thailanese keyboardist for Totsakan, Bangkok bar fire
  50. [13 July 2026] Biw (Nattapat Thamnita), Thailanese drummer for Totsakan, Bangkok bar fire
    In an interview with Thai TV Channel 3 just hours after the flames were extinguished, he recalled how the band’s bass player called him to tell him that Nahatai Sajjalert, the lead female singer nicknamed “Breeze″ — who was also his girlfriend — was undergoing CPR in back of the still-smoldering building. Ice said he tried helping the EMS team resuscitate her, but she could not be revived. Ice said it was originally believed that keyboardist Preutthipong — nickname “Kwang” — had been found and hospitalized, but that was a misunderstanding. He never made it out of the bar. Nattapat Thamnita, or “Biw,” the band’s drummer, was evacuated in critical condition, but also did not survive. A fourth band member died Wednesday. Misery extended to Wednesday when the band announced that its other male singer, Thitiwat Kaewkanha, had died in hospital. He was initially feared dead, but had then turned up hospitalized after a day of frantic searching. According to Thai Rath, Thailand’s most popular newspaper, Thitiwat, whose nickname is “Din,” had burns over 80% of his body. (source)
  51. [13 July 2026] Pedro Ignacio Calderón, 92, Argentine musician and conductor
    The National Secretariat of Culture mourns the passing of Argentine musician and conductor Pedro Ignacio Calderón, who led the National Symphony Orchestra for 22 years and was named Conductor Emeritus of the national ensemble in 2015. National Secretary of Culture Leonardo Cifelli stated: “Today we received the news of the sad passing of Pedro Ignacio Calderón. His talent, artistic rigor, and commitment to excellence left an indelible mark on generations of musicians and on the country’s leading symphonic institutions. At the helm of the National Symphony Orchestra—of which he was named Conductor Emeritus—he played a decisive role in the development and promotion of Argentine classical music, training performers and bringing the symphonic repertoire to audiences across the country. The National Secretariat of Culture stands with his family and the entire musical community during this time of sorrow.” (source)
  52. [13 July 2026] Doru de la Constanța, 44, Romanian manele singer
    New information is emerging after the death of Doru from Constanța, news that shocked the world of party music. The artist passed away at the Military Hospital in Constanța, after falling ill after attending a party, and now details have emerged about the serious health problems he was facing in the last moments of his life. Doru from Constanța is said to have suffered from a pancreatic condition, this being one of the hypotheses considered in connection with his death. The news fell like a thunderbolt on family, friends and colleagues in the guild, who are still trying to accept the artist’s disappearance. (source)
  53. [13 July 2026] Melaine Favennec, 75, French singer and musician
    Melaine Favennec, a legend of Breton music, has passed away. Originally from Quimperlé and a long-time resident of the Pays Bigouden region, he was 75 years old. The Breton music world is in mourning: multi-instrumentalist Melaine Favennec died at the age of 75 in Pont-l’Abbé, around 1 a.m. on the night between Sunday and Monday. “Melaine passed away during the hours when he would usually be finishing his shows and heading home,” said his wife, Mary Le Lez, who lovingly held his hand until the very end. Throughout his life, the musician sang of the beauty of *Penn-ar-Bed*—the “Land’s End.” (source)
  54. [13 July 2026] Mike Browning, 62, American musician for Morbid Angel
    Mike Browning, the drummer best known as a founding member of the legendary death metal band Morbid Angel, has died. The band’s Instagram account posted the news today along with a brief tribute: “R.I.P Mike, thanks for helping making all this happen. Our condolences to his family & especially his daughter.” Browning was 62. Browning grew up in Tampa and took up the drums at age 13. In a 2006 interview, he described his musical coming of age, noting that he was already interested in the contemporary hard rock greats like Black Sabbath, Led Zeppelin, and Pink Floyd when the clerk at a local record shop turned him on to metal bands like Iron Maiden and Angelwitch. (source)
  55. [12 July 2026] Vernon Taylor, 88, American rockabilly singer
    Vernon Walton Alderton passed away on Sunday, July 12, 2026, after a long battle with dementia. He was born on November 9, 1937, in Layhill, MD. He was the son of the late O. Herman and Mary (Brumback) Alderton. During his childhood his parents moved numerous times from Maryland to Virginia and back to Maryland. While in high school, he developed an interest in music. Vernon and three friends formed a band and entertained at fire halls, and private parties in the Washington, D.C. area. This led to recording contracts with “Dot” and “Sun” labels. (source)
  56. [12 July 2026] George Zack, 90, American orchestral conductor for Lexington Philharmonic Orchestra
    Dr. George Zack, the former music director and conductor of the Lexington Philharmonic, died yesterday. He was 90 years old. Zack served as the orchestra’s conductor from 1972 through 2009 — a tenure of 37 years. Those who played under him said he was a collaborator who held high standards for his musicians while working to bring classical music to broader audiences. Julie Baker, a violinist who played under Zack for 37 years and has been a member of the Lexington Philharmonic for 45 years, said his approach made the music accessible. (source)
  57. [12 July 2026] Szolnoki Péter, 56, Hungarian singer for Bon-Bon
    Péter Szolnoki, singer of the Bon-Bon band, died at the age of 57 due to a serious illness. The news was announced by the band on their social media page on Sunday morning. In its statement, Bon-Bon asked fans, acquaintances, friends and representatives of the press to respect the grief of the family and the band during these difficult days, and to express their condolences on social media. “The void that has now been created cannot be expressed in words, the pain in our hearts is immeasurable,” the band wrote. Péter Szolnoki was a defining figure in Bon-Bon, and the band became known in the Hungarian pop music scene with several popular hits. (source)

    58. — Da Pond Band–
  58. [11 July 2026] Giovanni McKenzie, Bahamian bandleader for Da Pond Band, plane crash
  59. [11 July 2026] Travis Johnson, Bahamian singer for Da Pond Band, plane crash
  60. [11 July 2026] Rashad Storr, Bahamian guitarist for Da Pond Band, plane crash
  61. [11 July 2026] Mateo Winder, Bahamian bassist for Da Pond Band, plane crash
  62. [11 July 2026] DJ Fresh (Melvin Henfield), Bahamian DJ for Da Pond Band, plane crash
    Members of ‘Da Pond Band’ were identified on social media and in a flight manifest as being aboard the Flamingo Air flight when it crashed in North Andros on Friday. Officials said that ten people died aboard the Cessna 402 in what was meant to be a 20-minute flight from Nassau to San Andros. (source)
  63. [11 July 2026] Peppino di Capri, 86, Italian singer
    The last farewell today, a few steps from his little square where everything began in the post-war period and a four-year-old boy enchanted the American soldiers by performing on the piano: he would have turned 87 on July 27th Giuseppe Faiella, for the world Peppino di Capri, a career that has almost spanned seven decades, two Sanremo wins, a record of 15 participations and the Ariston prize of 2023. An extraordinary innovator of Italian song even before being an elegant chansonnier, Peppino had been ill for some time and last summer for the last time he sang Champagne from the audience of the Certosa di San Giacomo. (source)
  64. [11 July 2026] S. Janaki, 88, Indian playback singer
    Veteran playback singer S Janaki, fondly known as the “Nightingale of South India,” died on Saturday at a private hospital in Mysuru following age-related health issues. She was 88. Her family confirmed the news, with her granddaughter sharing an emotional note saying the legendary singer passed away peacefully. Born as Sistla Sreeramamurthy Janaki in Andhra Pradesh, Janaki enjoyed an illustrious career spanning more than six decades, during which she recorded over 40,000 songs in around 20 Indian languages, including Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, Hindi, Bengali, Odia, Tulu, Urdu and Punjabi. Widely regarded as one of India’s greatest playback singers, she was celebrated for her extraordinary vocal range, emotional depth and remarkable versatility. (source)
  65. [11 July 2026] Lenzman, 47, Dutch drum and bass producer, kidney cancer
    Dutch drum & bass artist Teije van Vliet, AKA Lenzman, has died. His family confirmed the news on Instagram today, July 12th, revealing that he died yesterday afternoon following a three-and-a-half-year battle with cancer. Van Vliet was diagnosed with kidney cancer in January 2023 and underwent surgery to remove a kidney. The cancer had already spread and was incurable. Later that year, he underwent emergency brain surgery after losing consciousness at home, followed by reconstructive surgery in 2024. He subsequently returned to performing, but suffered further health complications, including an epileptic seizure, and underwent radiotherapy. Earlier this year, The North Quarter confirmed that treatment for his terminal cancer had stopped. (source)
  66. [10 July 2026] Calvin Hayes, 63, British musician for Johnny Hates Jazz
    Calvin Hayes, the British musician and co-founder of 1980s pop band Johnny Hates Jazz, has died at the age of 63 after collapsing at his home. The keyboardist and drummer was found dead at his property in Washington in the US, his wife Kathy has confirmed. Hayes rose to performing in Johnny Hates Jazz in 1986 alongside singer Clark Datchler and bassist Mike Nocito. The band’s breakthrough came with their 1987 single Shattered Dreams, which became an international hit and reached the Top 10 in several countries. Following that, their debut album Turn Back the Clock came out in 1988, which topped the UK charts. (source)
  67. [10 July 2026] Andy Bickers, Australian saxophone player for Cold Chisel
    Cold Chisel saxophone player Andy Bickers has died after “a “hard fought battle with cancer”, the band has announced. A post on the band’s official social media said “our much-loved sax player of more than 30 years” died on Friday morning. “Andy was our brother: an incredible musician and a great person to be out on the road or out on the town with,” it said. “His valuable contribution onstage to songs like Rising Sun, Saturday Night and My Baby will be sorely missed. “Our hearts break for his wife Lisa and his son Rudy.” (source)
  68. [10 July 2026] Michael Aspinall, 86, British musicologist
    Maestro Michael Aspinall has died at the age of 86; just a few weeks ago, he was honored at Naples City Hall for his career as a musicologist. Born in Stockport, Greater Manchester, he had long resided in the Neapolitan capital, where he passed away recently. The announcement was made by Mayor Gaetano Manfredi in an official statement. “I wish to express my deepest condolences, on my own behalf and that of the entire city of Naples, for the passing of Maestro Michael Aspinall,” the Mayor stated. “Just a few months ago, in the Executive Chamber of Palazzo San Giacomo, I had the honor and privilege of presenting him with the City Medal.” (source)
  69. [10 July 2026] Mariazelle Goonetilleke, 68, Sri Lankan singer and musician
    Veteran Sri Lankan singer Mariazelle Goonetilleke has passed away at the age of 68. She passed away in the early hours of Friday (July 10) while receiving treatment for an illness at the Colombo South Teaching Hospital in Kalubowila. Known for her signature Western-style pop and upbeat rhythms, Goonetilleke was a versatile and dynamic force in the local music industry. She made a significant impact on the Sri Lankan music scene by blending fast-paced contemporary beats with local melodies, earning immense popularity across multiple generations. (source)
  70. [09 July 2026] Manty Ellis, 93, American jazz musician
    Milwaukee is mourning the death of jazz lecgend Manty Ellis. The Milwaukee Jazz Institute, where he served for years as a board member, stated on Facebook that he died Thursday, July 9 at the age of 93. NNS featured Ellis in a story in April 2025. We’re republishing it in his honor. Manty Ellis is known as the godfather of Milwaukee jazz. Ellis, 92, has been playing jazz music and has paved the way for others to play jazz since the 1960s. On Feb.18, the Jazz Foundation of America announced Ellis was one of 20 inaugural fellows for the Jazz Legacies Fellowship, an initiative launched by the JFA in partnership with the Mellon Foundation. The fellowship honors each recipient with a lifetime achievement award and an unrestricted grant of $100,000. (source)
  71. [08 July 2026] Martin Matoušek, 53, Czech operatic baritone, aortic rupture
    Baritone Martin Matoušek was one of the prominent figures of the Czech opera scene. He was born on February 21, 1973. He has been involved in music since his youth, first at the Military Music School, where he studied clarinet, piano and saxophone. In 1991, he transferred to the Prague Conservatory, where he began to sing. He continued his studies from 1996 at the Faculty of Music of the Academy of Performing Arts in Prague with Professor Miloslav Podskalský, from whom he graduated in 2001. During his studies, he also drew attention in a competitive environment, including as a laureate of the International Singing Competition in Trnava and the competition show of Czech conservatories. (source)
  72. [08 July 2026] Rodney Franklin, 67, American jazz pianist and composer
    We received the sad news this morning of the passing of R&B and Jazz great Rodney Franklin. Franklin’s family issued the following statement through his niece, Jamaica Hughes, on the GoFundMe page that had been set up to assist with his medical bills: “Rodney Thomas Franklin passed away peacefully today, July 8, 2026. While we will miss him immensely, we rejoice in knowing that he is no longer in pain and is at peace. He was a beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. We are currently processing today’s events and will up day you all with next steps soon. We humbly thank you for your support. Please keep the family in your prayers.” (source)
  73. [08 July 2026] Bonnie Tyler, 75, Welsh singer, intestinal surgery
    Oscar-winning actress and Wednesday star Catherine Zeta-Jones has led the tributes to singer Bonnie Tyler, known for hits including Total Eclipse of the Heart and Holding Out for a Hero, who has died at the age of 75. The popular Welsh powerhouse singer died “unexpectedly” on Wednesday night at a Portugal hospital, “as a result of the illness that she was being treated for”, her family said in a “heartbroken” statement released on the star’s official website. Zeta-Jones paid her respects on Instagram, saying her heart was “broken” with the news that “our dearest Bonnie Tyler has passed away”. Tyler is survived by her husband of more than 50 years, Robert Sullivan, who is Zeta-Jones’s cousin. (source)
  74. [08 July 2026] Ermia Lachiani, 24, Israelian rapper, Iran strike
    Aspiring rapper dreamed of being the greatest rapper in a free and just Iran. Lachiani was also a gifted musician and was an aspiring rapper. He loved Eminem, Tupac, Travis Scott, Kendrick Lamar, and Drake. “It didn’t matter to him how long it would take; what mattered was that one day, his name would be heard alongside the best,” his mother told the Post. His artistic sensibilities came through not only in his lyrics, but also in his poetry. “I am a soldier of my people; not by force, but by my own choice,” he wrote. (source)
  75. [08 July 2026] Ela Laboriel, 77, Mexican singer and actress
    Singer and actress Ella Laboriel—whose real name was Esperanza Laboriel López—died on July 8, 2026, the National Association of Interpreters (ANDI) reported. She passed away at La Casa del Actor, where she had been living for some time. In addition to belonging to one of the most prominent families in Mexican show business, she was recognized as one of the first female voices of rock and roll in Mexico and for paving the way for women in the genre during the 1960s. Born on March 28, 1949, in Mexico City, she was the daughter of actor and composer Juan José Laboriel and actress Francisca López de Laboriel, both originally from La Ceiba, Honduras. She was also the sister of legendary rock and roll singer Johnny Laboriel and renowned bassist Abraham “Abe” Laboriel, a figure of international renown. (source)
  76. [07 July 2026] Joe Murphy, 46, English bass player for Koopa
    Tributes are pouring in after rock star Joe Murphy, who rose to fame with the band Koopa, died at the age of 46. The noughties star played bass in the Essex pop-punk band Koopa with brothers Stuart and Oliver ‘Ollie’ Cooper. The trio made history by becoming the first act to hit the UK top 40 singles chart with digital downloads. They are also remembered as the first act ever to have scored a charting single without the backing of a record label. Koopa’s record-breaking single, Blag, Steal & Borrow, was released in 2007. The band, hailing from the village of Sible Hedingham near Colchester, went on to bag two wins at the Glasswerk New Music Awards the same year. (source)
  77. [07 July 2026] Megas, 81, Icelandic singer
    Icelandic musician, writer and visual artist Magnús Þór Jónsson, widely known as Megas, has died at the age of 81. One of Iceland’s most prolific cultural figures, Megas worked across music, literature and visual art, leaving a substantial body of songs, lyrics, books and artwork. He also collaborated with a wide range of Icelandic musicians over the course of his career. Born in Reykjavík on 7 April 1945, Magnús Þór adopted the name Megas during his student years. He attended Austurbæjarskóli and Menntaskólinn í Reykjavík, graduating from the latter in 1965. (source)
  78. [06 July 2026] Kevin Chown, 56, American bass guitarist for Chad Smith’s Bombastic Meatbats
    Kevin Chown, the bassist known for his work with Artension, Tarja, SteelHeart, and numerous other artists, has reportedly died following a battle with cancer. He was 56. According to an obituary published by Anderson Funeral Homes, Chown passed away at his home on July 6, 2026, in Escanaba, Michigan. Funeral services are scheduled for July 18, with a full obituary expected to be released in the coming days. Following the news, Tarja Turunen paid tribute to her longtime collaborator on social media. (source)
  79. [05 July 2026] Beaky, 81, English musician for Dave Dee, Dozy, Beaky, Mick and Tich
    One of only two remaining members of the 60s UK chart-topping group, ‘Beaky’ of Dave Dee, Dozy, Beaky Mick and Tich has died… Formed in Salisbury, the quintet found fame with a zany sense of dress and catchy songs which had them in the charts more weeks than the Beatles during their 60s decade of hits. ‘Legend Of Xanadu’ even made the top of the charts in 1968. They would practice in Tich’s front room in Salisbury, and in 1961, they started out as Dave Dee and the Bostons. As the original members gradually retired, Rhythm guitarist Beaky and his band were still performing along with Tich until he passed away shortly after leaving the band. (source)
  80. [05 July 2026] Christian Moran, 42, English-Korean drummer for SB Circle
    Christian Moran, the drummer for the jazz-Korean traditional music crossover band “SB Circle,” passed away on the 5th. He was 42. Moran graduated with top honors from the University of West London in the UK and Berklee College of Music in the US. He studied under Grammy Award-winning drummer Terri Lyne Carrington and Mark Walker. As the leader of the MCL Quartet, he released the albums *Live at Ryles Jazz Club* and *Modern Rhythmic Usage*. Notably, in 2018, he formed SB Circle alongside saxophonist Shin Hyun-pil, gayageum player Park Kyung-so, and bassist Seo Young-do. Moran and Shin Hyun-pil were classmates at Berklee College of Music… (source)
  81. [05 July 2026] B. War, 60, Swedish bassist for Marduk
    Roger “B. War” Svensson, the former bassist of Swedish black metal veterans Marduk, has died. He was 60. Marduk confirmed the news on social media, writing: “Comradeship Through Blood and Iron. It is with the deepest regret that we announce the passing of our former bass player, friend and comrade, Roger ‘Bogge’ Svensson (1965–2026), better known as B. War… The memories remain. Evig är de dödas ryktbarhet. /Morgan and Marduk.” Svensson joined Marduk in 1992 and remained with the band until 2004… (source)
  82. [05 July 2026] Adrian Jack, 83, English composer for BBC Radio 3
    We have been alerted to the death a few days ago of Adrian Jack, a dedicated composer who made his living writing broadcast scripts for BBC Radio 3 and writing occasional reviews and articles for the Guardian and the Independent (none of which has noted his passing). Born in mid-War, Adrian studied in London and Warsaw and lectured at the RCM. He composed a broad range of works, many stored unperformed at the BMIC. Two string quartets were heard on Radio 3 and issued on record; numerous piano pieces were performed and broadcast by Noriko Kawai and Iain Burnside. .. (source)
  83. [05 July 2026] Teejan Bai, 69, Indian Pandavani singer
    President Droupadi Murmu on Sunday paid heartfelt tributes to Padma Vibhushan awardee and legendary Pandavani exponent Teejan Bai, describing her death as a major loss to India’s cultural landscape and remembering the folk icon for taking Chhattisgarh’s traditional storytelling art to audiences across the country and the world. In a message shared on X, the President said Teejan Bai’s “powerful voice”, commanding stage presence and distinctive style of performance brought the stories of the Mahabharata alive for generations of audiences. (source)
  84. [04 July 2026] Lothar Voigtländer, 82, German composer
    “…and the day will come when we shall know you…” – On the death of composer Lothar Voigtländer (1943–2026) These words appear in—and are a central component of—the oratorio *MenschenZeit* by Lothar Voigtländer. It premiered in 2007, performed by the Singakademie and Sinfonietta Dresden, and was performed again—and recorded on CD—in 2014 featuring ensembles from the Carl Maria von Weber College of Music Dresden alongside the Singakademie; both performances were conducted by the author of this article. According to the artist’s family, Lothar Voigtländer passed away yesterday evening, July 4, 2026, following a long illness, in Berlin—the city he had made his home. (source)
  85. [04 July 2026] Dave Sirmon, American musician for Mark Chesnutt
    Prayers have been pouring in for Dave Sirmon following his death over the weekend. Sirmon played in country music star Mark Chesnutt’s band, and he died on Chesnutt’s tour bus between shows on Saturday night. Chesnutt revealed Sirmon’s passing in a social media post on Monday: “I lost my buddy Dave Sirmon Saturday night while on the road,” Chesnutt wrote on Facebook. “Dave played bass guitar in my band. He was a great musician and friend. He was such a hard worker and very hands-on with everything on the road. He was somebody I could really depend on not only for playing music but for every aspect of the road. Advice, music, songs, the bus. Everything. (source)
  86. [04 July 2026] Sparky D, 61, American rapper
    Hip-Hop has lost one of its earliest female trailblazers with the death of Sparky D, born Doreen Broadnax, a pioneering MC whose fearless performances helped establish women as a formidable force during the genre’s formative years. Best known for her role in the historic Roxanne Wars, Sparky D emerged as one of the defining voices of rap’s first great battle movement. Her 1985 response record, “Sparky’s Turn (Roxanne You’re Through),” became one of the standout releases from the era. She managed to push through at a time when female MCs were fighting for recognition. (source)
  87. [03 July 2026] Alexi Cory-Smith, 58, British co-founder and CEO of Bella Figura Music
    Alexi Cory-Smith, co-founder and CEO of London-based catalog firm Bella Figura Music, and formerly an executive at BMG’s U.K. division, has died. She was 58. “We are devastated to announce the sudden and unexpected passing of our co-founder and CEO, Alexi Cory-Smith,” said a statement released on Friday (July 3) by Bella Figura, who manages the rights of evergreen hits like Joan Jett’s “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll” and The Human League’s “Don’t You Want Me.” “Alexi built Bella Figura Music from the ground up, bringing the vision and passion from a successful career in the music industry. Her leadership, creativity, and unwavering commitment to our team and our work leaves a lasting legacy,” (source)
  88. [02 July 2026] Tommy Hunter, 89, Canadian country singer
    “Canada’s Country Gentleman” Tommy Hunter, the celebrated musician whose professional career spanned from the 1950s into the early 2010s, has died. The singer and guitarist died Thursday of natural causes, entertainment promoter and manager Brian Edwards confirmed to CBC News. Hunter was 89. Born on March 20, 1937, in London, Ont., Hunter got an early start as an entertainer. He began taking guitar lessons at around nine years old, which soon led to him booking gigs, playing in churches and eventually landing on the radio… (source)
  89. [02 July 2026] Abdel Rahim Arqi, 70, Tambour singer, illness
    Tambour artist Abdel Rahim Arqi passed away this morning (Thursday) in the city of Al-Dabba, Northern State, at the age of seventy, after a long battle with illness. Arqi was one of the singers who popularized tambour music from the Nile Bend region of the Northern State to other parts of Sudan. His album, “My Love for You Was My Impetus,” achieved record sales in the mid-1990s and was reprinted several times. He was particularly known for his song “I Forgive You and I Am Pleased with You.” The late artist had recently returned from medical treatment in India before his health deteriorated, and he was admitted to Al-Dabba Hospital in the Northern State, where he passed away. (source)
  90. [01 July 2026] Dave Stimson, American music executive and writer, co-founder of Touch and Go Records
    Dave Stimson, co-founder of the pioneering ’80s hardcore punk zine, record label, and distribution company Touch & Go, has died. Stimson reportedly passed away Wednesday. Touch & Go’s Corey Rusk posted the news to the label’s Instagram account today along with a tribute to Stimson: Today is a sad day. Touch and Go co-founder Dave Stimson has passed away. I spent last night reminiscing and telling DS stories with Tesco. Bittersweet. Back in the Touch and Go Fanzine days, Tesco was the master of verbose storytelling. Although Dave was his linguistically minimalist counterpart, Dave could convey as much with a dry, condensed sentence as Tesco could in a full page. He was funny in a very different manner from Tesco. Together, they were like cool older brothers to us guys in the Necros (who were still in high school when we met Dave and Tesco). They put us on the cover of their fanzine, started a label (which I quickly joined them in running) to put out our records, and got us opening slots at Lansing’s Club DooBee with Black Flag and DOA at the start of 1981. Legends… both of them. (source)
  91. [01 July 2026] Mykola Yanchenko (Микола Янченко), 66, Ukrainian composer and singer, accidental electrocution
    People’s Artist of Ukraine Mykola Yanchenko died at the age of 67. It happened on July 1. The sad news was reported by the musician’s friend Yuriy Melnyk. On his Facebook page, he expressed condolences to the artist’s family and told when and where the farewell to him would take place. You may also be interested in It was difficult: Ivo Bobul spoke for the first time about the reasons for his severe weight loss. Mykola Yanchenko died in the village of Stryzhavka near Vinnytsia. The tragedy occurred in the afternoon in his yard: the artist received a fatal electric shock in the swimming pool.(source)
  92. [02 July 2026] Brian Potter, 87, British-born American songwriter and record producer
    He quietly helped create some of the most popular soul and pop music of the 1970s and 80s, with an amazing collection of hit songs for Tavares, The Four Tops, and so many more. Today we mourn the passing of legendary songwriter and producer Brian Potter. The Four Tops posted the notice of Mr. Potter’s passing on social media: “The Tops family are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Brian Potter. Brian, alongside his musical partner Dennis Lambert, wrote and produced several hits for the Four Tops, including ‘Ain’t No Woman Like The One I’ve Got’, ‘Are You Man Enough?’, ‘Keeper Of The Castle’ and produced the album of the same name. The Tops family send our heartfelt condolences to Brian’s family and friends. We are so grateful for his contribution to the world of music and to the legacy of the Four Tops.” (source)
  93. [01 July 2026] Shaun Glass, American bassist for Broken Hope and guitarist for Soil, stroke
    Shaun Glass, who initially found fame as the bassist of death metal band Broken Hope, before achieving further success with Soil, has passed away following a stroke. His former Soil bandmates posted the following message regarding his death: “We’d like to take a moment to say goodbye to our former guitarist Shaun Glass who passed away earlier today. Although we have been estranged and not on good terms since his departure in 2007, he was still an integral part of SOiL in the early years… (source)

 

June 2026
  1. [30 Jun 2026] Jennifer Banks, 42, American violinist, frontotemporal dementia
    Alexandra-born violinist Jennifer (Jenny) Banks, died late last month, aged 42, after a long battle with frontotemporal dementia. Ashley Smyth pays tribute to her talented sister. Jenny was a mother, a daughter, a sister, a friend — and also a beautiful violinist. Towards the end of June, Jenny developed pneumonia; she died peacefully, surrounded by her family, on June 30. (source)
  2. [30 June 2026] Gergely Molnár, 76, Hungarian musician for Spions
    On June 30, at the age of 76, musician Gergely Molnár, founder of the punk band Spions, died. The news of his death was published on the official Facebook page of the Budapest-based Artpool Art Research Center. Spiel! (Gergely Molnár, founder of the legendary band Spions and a defining figure in the Hungarian alternative cultural scene of the 1970s, who has been living in Canada since the 1980s and working as a DJ, founder of the legendary band Spions and a defining figure in the Hungarian alternative cultural scene of the 1970s) saw no point in continuing after the death of his partner Gina (Gabriella Lakatos) and followed her with a final somersault. We mourn our friend and colleague!.. (source)
  3. [30 June 2026] Jaroslav Foltýn, 90, Czech violinist
    Jaroslav Foltýn was born on October 18, 1935. He graduated from the Brno Conservatory under the guidance of Ševčík’s student Viktor Nopp. From 1956 to 1961 he studied at the Prague Academy of Music in the class of František Daniel, concertmaster of the Czech Philharmonic. Already during his studies he devoted himself to chamber music as a member of the Czech Chamber Orchestra. After graduation he worked not only as a soloist, but also as a member of the Dvořák Quartet and the Czechoslovak Radio Symphony Orchestra… (source)
  4. [30 June 2026] Victor Willis, 74, American singer for Village People
    Victor Willis, the lead singer of the Village People who also co-wrote many of the group’s high-camp disco-era hits, including “Y.M.C.A.” and “Macho Man,” died on Monday. He was 74. The group announced his death in a statement posted to social media that said the cause was “a short but aggressive illness.” No further details were provided. The Village People became global stars in the 1970s by performing in the garb of sexualized male stereotypes, with Mr. Willis often wearing the uniform of a police officer (complete with helmet) or naval officer… (source)
  5. [30 June 2026] Daniel Melingo, 68, Argentine musician for Los Twist
    Musician Daniel Melingo was found dead in his apartment. A member of the bands Los Twist and Los Abuelos de la Nada in the 1980s, he later moved from rock to tango, gaining recognition in Europe with an influential album: *Tangos bajos*. Melingo’s body was discovered in his apartment by one of his children, *La Nación* confirmed through sources familiar with the discovery. “He was receiving palliative care at his home in Chacarita for a respiratory illness,” they clarified… (source)
  6. [30 June 2026] Tony Ndiema, Ohangla musician, illness
    Ohangla musician Tony Ndiema, born Anton Okoth Ochieng, is dead. According to a number of reports, the musician died on Tuesday, June 30, while undergoing treatment following a short illness. Ndiema was a vocalist and bandleader known for blending traditional Ohangla rhythms with contemporary influences. According to updates shared before his death, Ndiema’s condition had deteriorated significantly, leaving him unable to walk or speak… (source)
  7. [29 June 2026] Phyllis Kinney, 103, American-born British singer and author
  8. [29 June 2026] Antoinette Miggiani, 88, Maltese operatic soprano
  9. [29 June 2026] Dadi Yudistira, Indonesian musician
  10. [28 June 2026] Teruki Gotō, 43, Japanese musician and political activist
  11. [28 June 2026] Mignon Dunn, 98, American mezzo-soprano for Metropolitan Opera and voice teacher for Manhattan School of Music
  12. [28 June 2026] Ali Ideflawen, 69, Algerian singer
  13. [28 June 2026] Vlado Janevski, 65, Macedonian singer
  14. [27 June 2026] Raisa Mkrtchyan, 84, Armenian singer
  15. [27 June 2026] Thomas Fey, 65, German orchestral conductor, brain injury
  16. [26 June 2026] Günter Lenz, 87, German jazz bassist and composer
    Bassist, composer, and arranger Günter Lenz has died. He was a key figure in German jazz and was active for decades in the scene’s most important ensembles. Günter Lenz was born on July 25, 1938, in Frankfurt am Main. He initially played guitar but switched to the double bass during his military service in the late 1950s. Like many musicians of that era, he gained experience playing in jazz clubs, including those catering to the U.S. armed forces. In 1961, he joined Albert Mangelsdorff’s quintet; this collaboration became a defining chapter of his career… (source)
  17. [25 June 2026] Oshim Ottawa, Canadian actor and musician
  18. [24 June 2026] David Clayton-Thomas, 84, British-Canadian songwriter and singer for Blood, Sweat & Tears
    David Clayton-Thomas, the powerhouse Canadian singer who lifted American band Blood, Sweat & Tears to the heights of pop music success, including Grammy awards and one of the biggest selling albums of its time, has died. Clayton-Thomas, 84, died peacefully at St. Michael’s Hospital in Toronto on Wednesday, according to his publicist, Eric Alper. The cause of his death was not immediately clear… cbc
  19. [24 June 2026] Harold Wheeler, 82, American orchestrator and composer
  20. [24 June 2026] Tullio Možina, 91, Italian-born Slovene guitarist and singer
  21. [24 June 2026] Shapour Rahimi, 78, Iranian musician
  22. [23 June 2026] Azar Azima, 98, Iranian singer
  23. [23 June 2026] Jani Wickholm, 48, Finnish singer
  24. [22 June 2026] Clive Davis, 94, American record producer, and music executive for Columbia Records, founder of Arista Records
    Music executive, starmaker, and one of the most influential names in music, Clive Davis has passed away at the age of 94 at his home in Manhattan, following a recent hospitalization for respiratory problems, his family has confirmed. Beginning in the industry as a mid-level legal position at Columbia Records, the Brooklyn native rose to become one of the most important figures behind the scenes in music, helping sign and guide the careers of the likes of Whitney Houston, Aretha Franklin, Barry Manilow and numerous others… wheartm
  25. [22 June 2026] Guesch Patti, 80, French singer
  26. [22 June 2026] Bára Tlučhořová, 37, Czech radio presenter
  27. [22 June 2026] Bruce Tull, 71, American guitarist and pedal-steel player for Scud Mountain Boys, brief illness (source)
  28. [21 June 2026] Noël Deschamps, 83, French singer
  29. [19 June 2026] Kirsti Sparboe, 79, Norwegian singer and actress
  30. [19 June 2026] Sir Emile Straker, 90, Barbadian singer for The Merrymen, complications from dementia
  31. [18 June 2026] Justin Cary, 50, American bass guitarist for Sixpence None the Richer, stroke
    Justin Cary, who played bass for Sixpence None the Richer, has died at just 50 years old. A GoFundMe set up in his honor revealed Justin recently suffered a serious stroke and was at a hospital in Albany… extratv
  32. [18 June 2026] Alex Bueno, 62, Dominican singer
  33. [18 June 2026] Tay Keith, 29, American record producer
  34. [18 June 2026] Akihiro Miwa, 91, Japanese singer and actor
  35. [17 June 2026] Teddie Beverley, 99, English singer for The Beverley Sisters
  36. [17 June 2026] Toney Lee, 72, American singer, songwriter and record producer
  37. [17 June 2026] Beau Williams, 76, American gospel singer, cancer
  38. [17 June 2026] Walter Parazaider, 81, American Hall of Fame woodwind musician for Chicago, Alzheimer’s disease
    Walter Parazaider, a founding member of the jazz-rock band Chicago whose saxophone provided the punch of “Just You ‘n’ Me” while his flute solo on “Colour My World” lent that song its romantic poignance, died of complications from Alzheimers disease died this morning, June 17, while in hospice care. He was 81… deadline
  39. [16 June 2026] Afsaneh Malek, 83, Iranian singer
  40. [16 June 2026] Bobby Prince, 81, American video game composer for Doom
  41. [15 June 2026] Fred Alexander, American drummer for Lakeside
  42. [15 June 2026] Abdullah Ibrahim, 91, South African jazz pianist for The Jazz Epistles and composer
  43. [14 June 2026] Dave Greenslade, 83, English composer and keyboardist for Colosseum)
  44. [14 June 2026] Ronell Johnson, 49, American trombonist for Preservation Hall Jazz Band, heart attack
  45. [14 June 2026] Lucas Frota, 27, Brazilian music producer, Rio de Janeiro mid-air collision
  46. [14 June 2026] Oliver Tree, 32, American singer-songwriter and rapper
  47. [13 June 2026] Annick Chartreux, 83, French composer
  48. [13 June 2026] Görel Hanser, 76, Swedish record company executive for Polar Music and talent manager
  49. [13 June 2026] Dee Palmer, 88, English , arranger, composer, and musician for Jethro Tull
    Dee Palmer, the classically trained composer and arranger whose orchestrations shaped the sound of Jethro Tull through the band’s most ambitious years, has died at the age of 88. She passed away on June 13 at her home in Shropshire, with family at her bedside, following a period of illness…. axs
  50. [12 June 2026] Frank Michael, 79, Italian-born Belgian singer, lung cancer
  51. [12 June 2026] Zack Roach, American guitarist for Senses Fail
  52. [12 June 2026] Oisín Daly, 38, Irish Musician, (details)
  53. [11 June 2026] Stranger Cole, 83, Jamaican singer
  54. [11 June 2026] Vladimir Sapozhnikov, 81, Russian composer, traffic collision
  55. [11 June 2026] Memiş Selciuc, 47, Romanian-Turkish saxophonist, heart attack
  56. [10 June 2026] Manu Lann Huel, 77, French singer-songwriter and poet
  57. [10 June 2026] Jan Málek, 88, Czech composer and music director
  58. [10 June 2026 ] Anthony Enriquez, 36, American country musician for Shotgun Rider (source)
  59. [09 June 2026] Bruno Turner, 95, British musicologist
  60. [09 June 2026] Ruth Watson Henderson, 93, Canadian composer and pianist
  61. [09 June 2026] Floyd Brown, 79, American country musician, cancer (source)
  62. [09 June 2026] Bill Cody, 67, American country musician, kidney and heart failure (source)
  63. [08 June 2026] Robert Greenidge, 76, Trinidadian steelpan player for Coral Reefer Band, stroke
  64. [08 June 2026] Helmut Nadolski, 83, Polish musician
  65. [08 June 2026] Sylwia Rajchert, 82, Polish singer for Alibabki
  66. [08 June 2026] Nikke Ström, 75, Swedish rock musician for Nationalteatern, heart surgery
  67. [07 June 2026] Yishai Levi, 63, Israeli Mizrahi music singer
  68. [06 June 2026] Karel Tejkal, 88, Czech radio journalist and publicist
  69. [06 June 2026] Ute Walther, 83, German mezzo-soprano for Deutsche Oper Berlin
  70. [05 June 2026] Steve Almaas, 69, American musician for The Suicide Commandos, cancer
    Steve Almaas, an influential Twin Cities musician who helped kickstart a local punk scene, has died due to complications of recurrent cancer. Almaas died on Friday afternoon in Beacon, New York, where he lived with his partner Brandy Burre. He was 69. In addition to being a founding member of the Suicide Commandos, Almaas led the country rock group Beat Rodeo, and was an accomplished solo artist… thecurrent
  71. [05 June 2026] Marion Fossett, 71, Irish singer for Sheeba
  72. [05 June 2026] Ovidio Granados, 84, Colombian vallenato accordionist and songwriter
  73. [05 June 2026] Talay Riley, 35, British singer and songwriter, stabbed
  74. [05 June 2026] Jokke Seppälä, 72, Finnish musician
  75. [05 June 2026] Indio Solari, 77, Argentine musician for Patricio Rey y sus Redonditos de Ricota
  76. [04 June 2026] Ian Hampton, 79, Scottish bassist for Sparks
    Legendary Sparks bass player Ian Hampton, who played with the group during their hugely successful 1970s era, died on Wednesday, June 3, at the age of 79. No cause of death has been revealed, but he had been unwell for some time and spent his final months in hospital. The news was confirmed by his daughter-in-law Judi Hampton, in a Facebook post. Alongside a picture of the musician, she wrote: “If you’ve been following me, you’ll know I’ve been a little quieter than usual over the last few days… express
  77. [04 June 2026] John B. Williams, 85, American double bassist and bass guitarist for The Tonight Show
  78. [03 June 2026] Margriet Hermans, 72, Belgian singer and politician, euthanasia
  79. [03 June 2026] James Blood Ulmer, 86, American guitarist
  80. [02 June 2026] Peabo Bryson, 75, American singer, stroke
  81. [01 June 2026] Areski Belkacem, 86, French singer, musician, and composer

 

May 2026

  1. [31 May 2026] Henry McMahon, 84, Irish musician for Big Tom and The Mainliners
  2. [31 May 2026] Dexter Wansel, 75, American keyboardist for MFSB, and record producer
  3. [30 May 2026] Steve Barrow, 80, British reggae producer and historiographer, co-founder of Blood and Fire
  4. [30 May 2026] Speight Jenkins, 89, American music director and critic
  5. [30 May 2026] Ronald LaPread, 76, American musician for Commodores
  6. [30 May 2026] Joe Negri, 99, American jazz guitarist, educator and actor
  7. [30 May 2026] Foster Sylvers, 64, American singer for The Sylvers, prostate cancer
  8. [29 May 2026] Geoff Keating, 88, British musician for The Master Singers
  9. [29 May 2026] Lauren Bennett, 36, English singer for G.R.L.
    English singer and former LMFAO collaborator Lauren Bennett reportedly died weeks before her passing was made public on Monday night. The musician’s death was revealed by Bennett’s former girl group G.R.L., with members Emmalyn Estrada, Paula Van Oppen, and Natasha Slayton declaring their “hearts are broken”. According to coroner records obtained by USA Today, the singer died in England on May 29 at the age of 36, weeks before what would have been her 37th birthday on June 29. Bennett’s cause of death remains unknown, with an inquest into the circumstances surrounding her death scheduled for October. (source)
  10. [29 May 2026] Pedro Ortaça, 83, Brazilian musician
  11. [28 May 2026] An Yunwu, 77, Chinese Peking opera actor
  12. [28 May 2026] Doug Shaw, 42, British musicianfor Gang Gang Dance
  13. [26 May 2026] Bjørn Tidmand, 86, Danish singer
  14. [26 May 2026] Arnold Whittall, 90, British musicologist
  15. [25 May 2026] Sonny Rollins, 95, American jazz saxophonist
  16. [24 May 2026] John Eaton, 91, American jazz pianist
  17. [23 May 2026] Philip Aaberg, 77, American pianist, pneumonia
  18. [23 May 2026] James Anthony Carmichael, 84, American musician and record producer
  19. [23 May 2026] Brian Large, 87, English opera director
  20. [23 May 2026] Dame Jools Topp, 68, New Zealand Hall of Fame musician and comedian for Topp Twins, breast cancer
  21. [22 May 2026] Rob Base, 59, American rapper for Rob Base & DJ E-Z Rock, cancer
  22. [22 May 2026] Dick Parry, 83, English saxophonist for Pink Floyd
  23. [22 May 2026] Carl Schachter, 93, American music theorist
  24. [21 May 2026] DJ Congélateur, 33, Ivorian singer and artist
  25. [20 May 2026] Ron Escheté, 77, American jazz guitarist
  26. [20 May 2026] Jimmy Hughes, 88, American rhythm and blues singer
  27. [19 May 2026] Al Hurricane Jr., 66, American singer-songwriter
  28. [19 May 2026] Limmie Pulliam, 50, American tenor
  29. [19 May 2026] Betty Roe, 95, English composer, singer and vocal coach
  30. [19 May 2026] Hieromonk Roman, 71, Russian hieromonk, poet and singer
  31. [18 May 2026] Abomé l’Éléphant, 33, Ivorian singer and rapper, cardiac arrest
  32. [18 May 2026] Feliksas Bajoras, 91, Lithuanian composer and academic
  33. [18 May 2026] Gunter Hampel, 88, German jazz multi-instrumentalist and composer
  34. [18 May 2026] Marideth Sisco, 82, American author and musician
  35. [17 May 2026] Totó la Momposina, 85, Colombian singer for La Candela Viva
  36. [16 May 2026] Dennis Locorriere, 76, American singer and guitarist for Dr. Hook, kidney disease
  37. [16 May 2026] Ryan Porter, 46, American jazz trombonist for West Coast Get Down, traffic collision
  38. [16 May 2026] Ike Willis, 70, American vocalist and guitarist for Frank Zappa, prostate cancer
  39. [15 May 2026] Bengt Berger, 83, Swedish jazz drummer, composer for Bitter Funeral Beer) and producer
  40. [15 May 2026] Dame Felicity Lott, 79, English soprano, cancer
  41. [15 May 2026] Bas Westerweel, 62, Dutch radio and television presenter for Het Klokhuis
  42. [14 May 2026] Pierre Cao, 88, Luxembourgish composer and conductor
  43. [14 May 2026] Abdelmadjid Meskoud, 73, Algerian chaabi singer, stroke
  44. [14 May 2026] Sophie Garel, 84, French singer and media presenter for Les Grosses Têtes
  45. [14 May 2026] Claudine Longet, 84, French-American singer and actress
  46. [13 May 2026] Clarence Carter, 90, American singer-songwriter, prostate cancer and sepsis
  47. [13 May 2026] El Cabrero, 81, Spanish flamenco singer
  48. [12 May 2026] Romuald Figuier, 88, French singer
  49. [11 May 2026] Jack Douglas, 80, American record producer
  50. [11 May 2026] Viorel Zgardan, 61, Moldovan operatic bass singer for Maria Bieșu National Opera and Ballet Theatre
  51. [10 May 2026] Bianca Gambino, 52, Colombian journalist, radio announcer and television presenter
  52. [10 May 2026] Rainer Nitschke, 79, German radio and television presenter
  53. [09 May 2026] Mark Smythe, 53, New Zealand-born American composer, atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease
  54. [09 May 2026] Warren Tipton, American singer for The Chi-Lites
    Longtime SoulTrackers know that the Chi-Lites are among our all-time favorite groups, so much so that they were awarded our 2014 Lifetime Achievement Award. Sadly, group co-founder and last living original member Marshall Thompson posted on social media today that one of the group’s more recent members, Warren Tipton, has died…. soultracks
  55. [08 May 2026] Abdelwahab Doukkali, 85, Moroccan composer and musician
  56. [07 May 2026] Günter Jena, 93, German church music director for St. Michaelis, Hamburg and musicologist
  57. [07 May 2026] James F. Sundah, 70, Indonesian songwriter
  58. [06 May 2026] Jesse Hector, 78, English musician for The Gorillas
  59. [06 May 2026] Aimable Karasira, 48, Rwandan singer and political activist, drug overdose
  60. [05 May 2026] Evelyn Cox, 66, American country and bluegrass singer and musician for The Cox Family
    Evelyn Marie Cox Hobbs, 66, of Vivian, Louisiana passed away peacefully at her home on May 5, 2026, surrounded by her friends and family. She is preceded in death by her parents Willard and Marie Cox of Cotton Valley, La and… vivianfuneralhome
  61. [05 May 2026] Guto Graça Mello, 78, Brazilian composer and music producer
  62. [04 May 2026] Jorge Calandrelli, 86, Argentine composer
  63. [04 May 2026] Jalil Hamid, 69, Malaysian actor, singer and producer
  64. [04 May 2026] Yuji Ohno, 84, Japanese musician and composer for Lupin III
  65. [03 May 2026] Michel Merlet, 86, French composer and pedagogue
  66. [03 May 2026] Cândido Mota, 82, Portuguese radio announcer, television presenter and actor
  67. [03 May 2026] Hany Shaker, 73, Egyptian singer, actor and composer
  68. [03 May 2026] Gheorghe Ștefăneț, 82, Moldovan singer and musician
  69. [03 May 2026] Lee Allen Zeno, 71, American bassist, cancer
  70. [02 May 2026] Michel Debost, 92, French flutist
  71. [01 May 2026] Tülay Özer, 79, Turkish singer
  72. [01 May 2026] Michael Sollis, 40, Australian musician and artistic director, bowel cancer

 

April 2026

  1. [30 Apr 2026] Georg Wadenius, 80, Swedish guitarist for Blood, Sweat & Tears
    The Swedish guitarist, singer and composer Georg Wadenius died in his sleep on April 30, just days before his 81st birthday. Although Carl Georg Wiktor Wadenius, or “Jojje” as he was called among friends, was born (May 4, 1945) and died in Stockholm, he was truly a citizen of the world…. downbeat
  2. [30 Apr 2026] Seymour Bernstein, 99, American pianist and composer
    … weheartmusic
  3. [30 Apr 2026] Alberto Davoli, 60, Italian radio personality for R101
    … weheartmusic
  4. [30 Apr 2026] Clarke Hansen, 84, Australian radio broadcaster for ABC
    … weheartmusic
  5. [30 Apr 2026] Alex Ligertwood, 79, Scottish musician and singer for Santana
    … weheartmusic
  6. [30 Apr 2026] Bobby Murray, 72, American blues musician, songwriter and producer
    … weheartmusic
  7. [29 Apr 2026] David Allan Coe, 86, American country singer and songwriter
    … weheartmusic
  8. [29 Apr 2026] Donald MacRae, 84, Scottish folk singer
    … weheartmusic
  9. [29 Apr 2026] Oskar Petr, 73, Czech composer, lyricist, and singer
    … weheartmusic
  10. [28 Apr 2026] Kiyoshi Kitagawa, 67, Japanese-American jazz double bassist
    … weheartmusic
  11. [27 Apr 2026] Mimi Coertse, 93, South African soprano
    … weheartmusic
  12. [27 Apr 2026] Jerry.K, 42, South Korean rapper, glioblastoma
    … weheartmusic
  13. [27 Apr 2026] Beverley Martyn, 79, English singer-songwriter
    … weheartmusic
  14. [26 Apr 2026] Nedra Talley, 80, American singer for The Ronettes
    The bad news was posted on social media today by Nedra K. Ross, daughter of legendary “girl group” singer Nedra Talley-Ross, the last surviving original member of The Ronettes… soultracks
  15. [26 Apr 2026] Peter Gülke, 91, German conductor and musicologist
    … weheartmusic
  16. [25 Apr 2026] Daniel Huck, 78, French jazz reedist and singer
    … weheartmusic
  17. [25 Apr 2026] Jesper Thilo, 84, Danish jazz saxophonist
    … weheartmusic
  18. [24 Apr 2026] Tony Wilson, 89, Trinidadian musician for Hot Chocolate and songwriter “Brother Louie”
    Tony Wilson, bassist, songwriter, and co-founder of the hit British group Hot Chocolate has died in his native Trinidad aged 89. His death was confirmed in a social media post by his daughter. Wilson co-wrote the band’s 1975 global hit single, “You Sexy Thing” that peaked at #3 in America and #2 in Britain where it also reached the top 10 in three successive decades… forbes
  19. [24 Apr 2026] Kim Bowers, Australian musician for Spdfgh, music director and sound artist, breast cancer
    … weheartmusic
  20. [24 Apr 2026] Busk Margit Jonsson, 96, Swedish operatic soprano singer
    … weheartmusic
  21. [24 Apr 2026] Günter Pichler, 85, Austrian violinist for Alban Berg Quartett, traffic collision
    … weheartmusic
  22. [23 Apr 2026] Jean-Bernard Pommier, 81, French pianist and conductor
    … weheartmusic
  23. [23 Apr 2026] HavinMotion, 22, American rapper, shot
    … weheartmusic
  24. [22 Apr 2026] Kathy Dooley, 70, British singer for The Dooleys, dementia
    … weheartmusic
  25. [22 Apr 2026] Evelyne Lenton, 80, French singer for Belle Epoque
    … weheartmusic
  26. [22 Apr 2026] Ruth Slenczynska, 101, American classical pianist
    … weheartmusic
  27. [22 Apr 2026] Michael Tilson Thomas, 81, American conductor, pianist and composer, glioblastoma
    … weheartmusic
  28. [22 Apr 2026] James Valentine, 64, Australian saxophonist for Models, assisted suicide
    … weheartmusic
  29. [21 Apr 2026] Gregg Foreman, 53, American musician for The Delta 72
    … weheartmusic
  30. [21 Apr 2026] Lena Maria Gårdenäs, 79, Swedish singer and actress
    … weheartmusic
  31. [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
  32. [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
  33. [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
  34. [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
  35. [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
  36. [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
  37. [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
  38. [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
  39. [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
  40. [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
  41. [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
  42. [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
  43. [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
  44. [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
  45. [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
  46. [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
  47. [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
  48. [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
  49. [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
  50. [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
  51. [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
  52. [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
  53. [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
  54. [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
  55. [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
  56. [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

  1. [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
  2. [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
  3. [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
  4. [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
  5. [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
  6. [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
  7. [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
  8. [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
  9. [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
  10. [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
  11. [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
  12. [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
  13. [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
  14. [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
  15. [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
  16. [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
  17. [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
  18. [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
  19. [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
  20. [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
  21. [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
  22. [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. [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
  24. [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
  25. [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
  26. [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
  27. [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
  28. [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
  29. [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
  30. [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
  31. [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
  32. [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
  33. [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
  34. [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
  35. [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
  36. [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
  37. [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
  38. [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
  39. [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
  40. [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
  41. [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
  42. [14 Mar 2026] Paul Geremia, 81, American blues musician
    Paul A. Geremia April 21, 1944 – March 14, 2026 … mkds
  43. [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
  44. [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
  45. [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
  46. [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
  47. [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
  48. [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
  49. [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
  50. [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
  51. [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
  52. [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
  53. [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
  54. [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
  55. [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
  56. [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
  57. [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
  58. [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
  59. [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
  60. [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
  61. [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
  62. [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
  63. [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
  64. [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
  65. [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
  66. [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
  67. [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
  68. [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. Merseybeat legend Len Garry has died aged 84. The Quarrymen star, who played alongside John Lennon and Paul McCartney in the band which would later evolve into the Beatles, was recently diagnosed with pneumonia after being admitted to the Royal Liverpool Hospital following a suspected chest infection. … liverpoolecho
  69. [02 Mar 2026] Neil Steed, 76, British singer, guitarist, and songwriter for The Tildens, car crash
    It is with great sadness that I need to tell you that my friend and band mate for over 40 years Neil Steed was killed in a car crash yesterday near Downham Market. The shock and rawness of this is in the very early stages and his wife Linda has asked me to communicate as best I can with the many people who knew him from work, music and many other fields. I looked through my list of Facebook friends and realised this message would be relevant for quite a few. I can’t make any other comment at the moment. It is a devasting blow. (source)
  70. [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
  71. [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
  72. [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
  73. [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

February 2026

  1. [28 Feb 2026] John P. Hammond, 83, American blues singer and guitarist
    John Hammond, the blues singer and guitarist also known as John P. Hammond and John Hammond Jr., died yesterday, Feb. 28, 2026. His passing was confirmed by musician Paul James, a collaborator and close friend of Hammond’s, who posted on Facebook that he received news of Hammond’s death from the latter’s wife Marla. The cause and place of his death have not yet been revealed. Hammond was 83…. bestclassicbands
  2. [28 Feb 2026] Boncana Maïga, 77, Malian composer and musician
    Malian musician, composer and arranger Boncana Maïga died Saturday, February 28, 2026 in Bamako. A major figure in the Afro-Cuban fusion and mentor of several generations of artists, he leaves a lasting imprint on contemporary African music…. apanews
  3. [28 Feb 2026] Viktor Vassiljev, 71, Estonian guitarist
    The band Justament announced the death of bandmate Viktor Vassiljev on Facebook on February 28. Vassiljev was a popular guitarist who, in addition to Justament, became involved in several other bands, but he was primarily known as the guitarist of the bands Justament and Fix. The musician died at the age of 71. Six years ago, Vassiljev told Vikerraadio’s program “Heli Hunger” that he was a musically complete self-taught person… postimees
  4. [28 Feb 2026] Terry Watkinson, 85, Canadian musician for Max Webster
    Obituaries: Canadian Artists Remember Paul Martin of The Blushing Brides, Max Webster’s Terry Watkinson & John Hammond This week we also acknowledge the passing of hit songwriter and recording artist Neil Sedaka and American guitar ace Travis Wammack…. billboard
  5. [27 Feb 2026] Travis Wammack, 81, American rock and roll guitarist
    Legendary guitarist and hitmaker Travis Wammack has died at 81 Friday. Born in Walnut, Mississippi, Wammack spent decades recording music both in Memphis and at FAME studios in Muscle Shoals. … waff
  6. [27 Feb 2026] Neil Sedaka, 86, American singer and songwriter
    A musical prodigy, gifted songwriter, and pop music artist and performer, the legendary Neil Sedaka, whose career went into seven decades, passed away on Friday in Los Angeles at the age of 86. Cause of death was not immediately known but his son, Marc, stated that his father was taken from his West Hollywood home to an area hospital, where he passed away…. wheartm
  7. [26 Feb 2026] Roscoe Robinson, 97, American gospel and soul singer
    A Birmingham artist whose musical career transcended styles and genres for seven decades has died.Roscoe Robinson as a solo artist, writer and group member was associated with numerous gospel and soul acts including Sam Cooke, and sighted member of the Blind Boys of Alabama and the Blind Boys of Mississippi. Robinson, who died Thursday at age 97, continued to record into his 90s…. al
  8. [26 Feb 2026] Yasuko Tasumi, 87, Japanese pianist
    Yasuko Tasumi, a professor emeritus at Kyoto City University of Arts, who was the leader who nurtured the descendants of the piano world for many years in Kyoto and the director of the Kyoto Concert Hall… kyoto-np
  9. [25 Feb 2026] Roman Kofman, 89, Ukrainian conductor and composer
    Roman Kofman, the chief conductor of the National Philharmonic’s Academic Symphony Orchestra and the Kyiv Chamber Orchestra, People’s Artist of Ukraine, has died… mezha
  10. [24 Feb 2026] Rostislav Gepp (Ростислав Гепп), 74, Russian musician for Ariel
    The head of the legendary VIA “Ariel” Rostislav Gepp died in the evening of February 24 at the age of 74 years. This was reported in the Ministry of Culture of the Chelyabinsk region. He was known to the public as a virtuoso flutist and keyboardist, a member of the gold composition of the ensemble “Ariel”…. gubernia74
  11. [24 Feb 2026] Héctor Zamorano, 47, Mexican singer for La Academia
    On Tuesday, the death of Héctor Zamorano of the first generation of La Academia, a reality show in which he was the first eliminated in the already distant 2002, but who subsequently continued with his career and denounced harassment of Sergio Segura… elfinanciero
  12. [24 Feb 2026] Jiří Valenta, 66, Czech keyboardist for Olympic, suicide
    The Olympic group and its supporters have been hit by unexpected news in recent days. At the age of 66, keyboardist Jiří Valenta, who played with the band from the 1980s to 2020, has died. According to available information, he should have committed suicide. … nova
  13. [24 Feb 2026] Rostislav Gepp, 74, Russian musician for Ariel
    The head of the legendary VIA “Ariel” Rostislav Gepp died in the evening of February 24 at the age of 74 years. This was reported in the Ministry of Culture of the Chelyabinsk region. He was known to the public as a virtuoso flutist and keyboardist, a member of the gold composition of the ensemble “Ariel”. … gubernia74
  14. [24 Feb 2026] Uncle Joe Benson, 76, American rock radio DJ for KLOS), Parkinson’s disease
    Los Angeles radio legend and former Ultimate Classic Rock Nights host Uncle Joe Benson has died at the age of 76, his family shared Friday (Feb. 27) on social media. Benson hosted UCR’s nationally syndicated nighttime radio show from 2018 until 2024…. ultimateclassicrock
  15. [23 Feb 2026] Éliane Radigue, 94, French composer
    French composer Eliane Radigue, a minimalist artist and pioneer of electronic music, died Monday, February 23 in Paris, at the age of 94, her family announced Tuesday in a statement to Agence France-Presse (AFP). Born in Paris in 1932, Eliane Radigue has initiated herself to concrete music with the great names of the genre, such as the engineer composer Pierre Schaeffer, whom she joined in 1955 in the Test Studio, a laboratory for sound and noise experiments… lemonde
  16. [23 Feb 2026] Monti Rock III, 86, American singer for Disco-Tex and the Sex-O-Lettes, COPD
    A beloved actor from the 1977 film classic Saturday Night Fever has died, leaving behind a performance that helped define one of the decade’s most iconic films… While Travolta’s star-making turn remains central to the film’s legacy, fans also remember the supporting characters who gave the story its emotional weight and authenticity. One of these actors was Monti Rock III, who played the beloved DJ Monti at the disco the characters visited, The 2001 Odyssey. Rock is best remembered from a scene where he calls out to Travolta and his fellow dancers. He says, “Hello, again! This is beautiful Monti, your delicious DJ!”.. yahoo
  17. [22 Feb 2026] Luci4, 23, American rapper
    Rapper Luci4, born James Dear, has died. He was 23. The Los Angeles rapper, who was best known for the hit “BodyPartz,” died on Sunday, Feb. 22, at a private residence, according to a L.A. County Medical Examiner report… people
  18. [21 Feb 2026] John Bertalot, 94, English organist
    Blackburn Cathedral has announced the death of Dr John Bertalot, the former Director of Music credited with helping build the Cathedral choir’s reputation and playing a key role in the landmark 1969 organ project. .. blackburnlife
  19. [21 Feb 2026] Willie Colón, 75, American salsa musician and actor, respiratory failure
    Salsa legend Willie Colón has died at the age of 75 after entering emergency with respiratory problems at Lawrence Hospital in Bronxville, New York. William Anthony Colón, his real name, was born in New York in 1950; of Puerto Rican origin, he is known for having been part of the duos Willie Colón & Héctor Lavoe and Willie Colón & Ruben Blades, also considered one of the most influential performers in the history of salsa… jornada
  20. [21 Feb 2026] Pete Dello, 83, English songwriter and singer for Honeybus
    His faithful were rare but loved him with passion: the British composer Pete Dello died in the shadows, a few days ago, at the age of 83. Little known to the general public, we owe him a masterpiece of pop, published in 1971… telerama
  21. [21 Feb 2026] Mark Kennedy, 74, Australian record producer and drummer for Spectrum
    The Australian music community is in mourning following the passing of Mark Kennedy, one of the most technically gifted and influential drummers in the nation’s history. Kennedy passed away on 21 February 2026 at McCulloch House, the palliative care unit at the Monash Medical Centre in Clayton, Victoria. He was 74… noise11
  22. [20 Feb 2026] Zoya Dorodova, 85, Russian singer for Buranovskiye Babushki, cancer
    Zoya Sergeevna Dorodova. She was born on April 15, 1940, died on February 20, 2026. The Russian singer. Participant of the group “Buranov grandmothers”. People’s Artist of the Udmurt Republic (2012)… stuki-druki
  23. [19 Feb 2026] Nikolai Komyagin, 39, Russian singer for Shortparis
    Shortparis frontman Nikolai Komyagin has died. The band’s manager, Marina Kosukhina, confirmed the news on their socials, writing, “Nikolai is no longer with us”. Shortparis was formed in Saint Petersburg in 2012, with Komyagin becoming its vocalist, keyboardist, and ideological engine… clashmusic
  24. [18 Feb 2026] Lil Poppa, 25, American rapper
    Lil Poppa — a popular rapper based out of Jacksonville, Florida — has died … TMZ has learned. The Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office in Georgia tells TMZ … the rapper — real name Janarious Mykel Wheeler — was pronounced dead today at 11:23 AM ET… tmz
  25. [18 Feb 2026] Béatrice Ardisson, 62, French composer and DJ, cancer
    The sound illustrator, musician and disc-jockey Béatrice Ardisson, ex-wife of Thierry Ardisson, died Wednesday at the age of 62 from cancer, her children told AFP on Thursday… lefigaro
  26. [17 Feb 2026] Jim Čert, 69, Czech singer and accordionist
    At the age of 69, the underground singer and accordionist František Horáček, known as Jim Čert, died. This was stated on social media last night by historian Petr Blažek and priest Ladislav Heryán… reflex
  27. [16 Feb 2026] Billy Steinberg, 75, American songwriter, cancer
    Billy Steinberg, who wrote the lyrics to some of the biggest pop hits of the 1980s — including Madonna’s “Like a Virgin,” Cyndi Lauper’s “True Colors” and Heart’s “Alone” — died Monday at his home in Brentwood. He was 75… latimes
  28. [16 Feb 2026] Marzio Mazzanti, Italian singer and bassist for Homo Sapiens
    Fornacette mourns the death of Marzio Mazzanti, voice and bassist of the famous musical group Homo Sapiens, active mainly in the 1970s. They give the sad announcement: his wife, daughters, genders, brother, sisters-in-law, grandchildren and relatives all. … vtrend
  29. [15 Feb 2026] Wayne Proctor, American guitarist for We the People
    We The People songwriter Wayne Proctor has died. The band drew from various groups in the Orlando, Florida region, playing their first shows as We The People in 1966. Unusually, the line-up was driven forwards by two songwriters – Tommy Talton and Wayne Proctor – with the latter penning most of their iconic songs…. vtrend
  30. [15 Feb 2026] Kazue Sawai, 85, Japanese musician
    Kazue SAWAI, a world-renowned koto musician who opened up a new horizon for the expression of koto, died of pneumonia on the 15th. He was 85 years old. The tolls are at 6pm on the 19th, and the funeral is at the Rakan Kaikan Hall in one of the 19s in Shimomeguro, Meguro-ku, Tokyo… asahi
  31. [15 Feb 2026] Leo Rosas, 27, Bolivian singer for The Voice of Mexico
    Bolivian singer Leo Rosas, one of the Bolivian artists with the greatest international projection of the last decade and runner-up of La Voz México 2019, died on Sunday at the age of 27, according to sources close to the artist. The news caused a remession in the artistic field of the country and among its followers…. vision360
  32. [14 Feb 2026] Pavel Klikar, 72, Czech musician and pedagogue
    At the age of 72, Pavel Klikar left the world as one of the inherent personalities of Czech music culture in the second half of the 20th and early 21st centuries, combining the role of musicologist, bandleader, performer and teacher. For Czech Radio Vltava has been preparing with Ondřej Havelka the series Forgotten Heroes of Syncope for years… rozhlas
  33. [14 Feb 2026] Tim Very, 42, American rock drummer for Manchester Orchestra
    Tim Very, the drummer for Manchester Orchestra, has died. The Atlanta, GA indie rock band announced the news on social media today. No cause of death has been provided. Very was 42….. stereogum
  34. [13 Feb 2026] Simon Harris, 63, British music producer, DJ and electronic musician
    Simon Harris, the visionary producer, DJ, and founder of the influential label Music of Life, has passed away, leaving behind a legacy that helped shape the foundations of British Hip Hop. He was a trailblazer long before the genre found mainstream acceptance in the UK, and his work continues to echo through the culture he helped build…. britishhiphop
  35. [12 Feb 2026] Saúl Cornejo, 79, Peruvian singer and composer
    The historic Peruvian musician Saul Cornejo Ávalos died on Thursday, February 12. The unfortunate news was confirmed by various industry organizations and colleagues on social networks. Recognized as a guitarist, composer and producer, he was one of the key figures in the sound evolution of the country since the 1960’s, promoting innovative proposals with his brother Manuel Cornejo. … larepublica
  36. [12 Feb 2026] Milkman, Mexican rapper, producer, and composer
    Mexican rapper and producer Milkman, known for his work on the hip hop scene and creative projects in fashion and music, died after weeks of fighting serious health complications, his family and record label reported through social networks and messages from close friends. … nmas
  37. [11 Feb 2026] Jerry Kennedy, 85, American record producer, songwriter and guitarist
    Shreveport native and one of Nashville’s most iconic session musicians and record producers, Jerry Kennedy, 85, died Wednesday in Nashville. Kennedy grew up in Shreveport and took his first steps toward what became a legacy of influence in country music. …. shreveportbossieradvocate
  38. [11 Feb 2026] Helmuth Rilling, 92, German choral conductor for Gächinger Kantorei
    Conductor Helmuth Rilling has died. The Stuttgart-based musician set standards in particular with his engagement with Johann Sebastian Bach’s work. … swr
  39. [11 Feb 2026] László Somfai, 91, Hungarian musicologist
    László Somfai, a Széchenyi Prize-winning music historian and well-known researcher of Béla Bartók’s musical legacy, passed away on 11 February 2026 at the age of 92. On behalf of the research partners, music historian László Vikárius, a member of the public body of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, says goodbye to his colleague. …. mta
  40. [10 Feb 2026] Andrew Ranken, 72, English drummer The Pogues
    Tributes have been paid following news of the passing of The Pogues’ drummer, Andrew ‘The Clobberer’ Ranken. Ranken was a founding member of the iconic folk group, helping bring the first line-up together in 1983. He acted as the drummer for the band in all of their studio albums and live shows up until their first hiatus in 1996. His time in the role earned him the nickname ‘The Clobberer’, and he also occasionally took on vocal duties for the group. … nme
  41. [10 Feb 2026] Des de Moor, 64, English writer and musician
    Much-loved Guild member and writer Des De Moor passes away. The Guild board is desperately sad to hear that long-time Guild member and wonderful writer Des De Moor has passed away. …. beerguild
  42. [09 Feb 2026] Garland Green, 83, American soul singer and pianist
    In 1969,Garland Green dominated radio for a period with his lush, soulful ballad “Jealous Kind of Fella.” It became an instant classic that introduced the world to the impassioned voice of a talented singer. We’re sad to report the passing of Mr. Green at age 83 …. soultracks
  43. [08 Feb 2026] Liliana Dumitrache, 71, Romanian operatic soprano
    On Sunday, February 8, 2026, she died, at the age of 72, soprano Liliana Dumitrache, former soloist of the Bucharest National Opera and teacher. Born on October 28, 1954, in the town of Nămoloasa, jud. Galați, Liliana Dumitrache attended the Folk Art School in Galati (fame class. Elena Patrichi), and then specialized in classical singing at the National University of Music in Bucharest…. romania-muzical
  44. [08 Feb 2026] Matti Caspi, 76, Israeli singer-songwriter, cancer
    Matti Caspi, one of Israel’s greatest musicians, passed away early on Sunday morning. He was 76 years old. President Isaac Herzog tweeted a tribute to Caspi immediately upon hearing the news of his death Sunday morning: “As in a line from one of his unforgettable songs — “Someone up there is looking out for me” — Matti Caspi left us far too soon, one of the greatest Israeli creators of our generation, and has gone on to watch over us from above. …. jpost
  45. [07 Feb 2026] Greg Brown, American musician for Cake
    Greg Brown, the founding guitarist for Cake, has died. The band’s social media account announced the news today, saying he passed “after a brief illness.” Greg Brown co-founded the droll alt-rock band in 1991 with singer John McCrea, trumpeter Vince DiFiore, drummer Frank French, and bassist Shon Meckfessel. Brown co-wrote and played guitar and organ on Cake’s first two LPs, 1994’s Motorcade Of Generosity and 1996’s Fashion Nugget. For the latter he was the sole writer of “The Distance,” one of Cake’s biggest hits. … stereogum
  46. [07 Feb 2026] Ebo Taylor, 90, Ghanaian musician and producer
    One of Ghana’s enduring music legends, Ebo Taylor has died. He was 90 years old. His son Kweku Taylor announced the death in a Facebook post Sunday morning February 8, 2026. He posted: “The world has lost a giant. A colossus of African music. Ebo Taylor passed away yesterday; a day after the launch of Ebo Taylor Music Festival and exactly a month after his 90th birthday, leaving behind an unmatched artistry legacy. Dad, your light will never fade.” …. ghanabusinessnews
  47. [07 Feb 2026] Brad Arnold, 47, American singer for 3 Doors Down, renal cell carcinoma
    Brad Arnold, the lead singer (and former drummer) of Mississippi post-grunge hard rock band, 3 Doors Down, has passed away at the age of 47, following a battle with Stage IV clear renal cell carcinoma, which had metastasized to his lung and then kidney cancer. An official statement on social media reads in part: “With his beloved wife Jennifer and his family by his side, [Brad] passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, in his sleep after his courageous battle with cancer.” … wheartm
  48. [06 Feb 2026] Lynn Blakey, American country musician for Tres Chicas
    Lynn Blakely, an indie rock musician who played with Let’s Active, Oh-OK and Tres Chicas, has died. Her cause of death wasn’t immediately known. In 2025, she was fighting a recurrence of cancer. She was in her early 60s…. parade
  49. [05 Feb 2026] Fred Smith, 77, American bassist for Television, Blondie
    Fred Smith, bass player for the influential proto-punk band Television, died Thursday. He was 77. The band confirmed his death on its Instagram. Smith started out playing with Angel and the Snake, which then became Blondie. … variety
  50. [05 Feb 2026] Helen Micallef, 75, Maltese singer for Helen and Joseph
    Helen Micallef, the singer who represented Malta at the Eurovision Song Contest in 1972 as part of the duo Helen and Joseph, has died at the age of 75. Her daughter said she died on Thursday peacefully and surrounded by her loved ones. … timesofmalta
  51. [04 Feb 2026] Tommy Crook, 81, American guitarist
    Acclaimed Tulsa guitarist Tommy Crook has died. He was 81. An entry on Crook in the book “Oklahoma Music Guide” said in-the-know musicians recognized him as one of the premier guitarists in the U.S., if not the world…. archive
  52. [04 Feb 2026] Tōsha Meishō, 84, Japanese hayashi musician
    Tosha Meisho, a transverse flute player and living national treasure of Nagauta Nayomono, died of pneumonia at a hospital in Kyoto City on the 4th. 84 years old. Born in Tokyo. The farewell ceremony was held from 10am on the 7th at the Central Bright Hall of the Public Interest Incorporated Association, 390th in Gojobashi Higashi 3, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City…. toonippo
  53. [03 Feb 2026] Lamonte McLemore, 90, American singer for The 5th Dimension
    LaMonte McLemore, founding member of The 5th Dimension and a pivotal figure in American popular music and photography, has died aged 90. McLemore passed away on February 3 at his Las Vegas home, surrounded by family, following natural causes related to a stroke suffered several years ago. His death marks the loss of an artist whose influence extended well beyond the recording studio, spanning music, visual culture and social history…. noise11
  54. [03 Feb 2026] S. P. Venkatesh, 70, Indian film score composer, cardiac arrest
    The Indian film industry is mourning the loss of veteran music director S.P. Venkatesh, who passed away following a cardiac arrest on Tuesday. He was 70. … gulfnews
  55. [03 Feb 2026] Ron Kenoly, 81, American Christian worship leader, singer, and songwriter
    Legendary gospel singer, Ron Kenoly, has passed away. Kenoly’s death has been confirmed by several artistes via their social media pages. He was 81. … dailypost
  56. [02 Feb 2026] James Moschello, 88, American singer for The Elegants
    Vincent (Jimmy) Moschello, the bass/baritone singer who was an original member of Vito Picone & The Elegants — and whose mega hit “Little Star,” topped the charts and earned a gold record in 1958 — died in Staten Island University Hospital on Monday, according to his family who were by his side. He was 88. … silive
  57. [02 Feb 2026] Yuan Wei-jen, 57, Taiwanese singer-songwriter
    It was reported on the 2nd that the well-known musician Yuan Weiren passed away due to illness at the age of 57. The family members said that they will take Yuan Weiren’s body back to Taipei in the future and bury him with his father in a place with mountains and rivers that he is familiar with and attached to … mirrordaily
  58. [02 Feb 2026] Chuck Negron, 83, American singer for Three Dog Night, heart failure
    Chuck Negron, the lead singer and a founding member of the classic 1970’s rock band Three Dog Night, died on Monday at his home in Studio City CA of heart failure and COPD, at the age of 83. A statement from his publicist was shared on his official social media accounts, detailed that he had been suffering from chronic cognitive obstructive pulmonary disease, and that he had been diagnosed with heart failure in his final months…. wheartm
  59. [01 Feb 2026] Ken Peplowski, 66, American jazz clarinetist and tenor saxophonist
    The jazz world is mourning the loss of acclaimed saxophonist and clarinetist Ken Peplowksi, who died this week at the age of 66. … wbgo
  60. [01 Feb 2026] Steve Washington, 67, American musician for Slave
    A musical artist is considered impactful if he or she creates a band that has a run of success. But what do you say about an artist who does it twice, helping create two legendary funk groups? That was the tale of multi-instrumentalist, producer, and bandleader Steve Washington, whose creative drive helped shape the sound of late-1970s and early-1980s funk and R&B through his work with Slave and Aurra. We are sad to report the Mr. Washington has died. … soultracks
  61. [01 Feb 2026] Fernando Esteso, 80, Spanish comedian, actor and singer, respiratory failure
    The actor and comedian Fernando Esteso has died this Sunday in Valencia at the age of 80. As Levante-EMV has been able to confirm, Esteso was admitted to the University Hospital La Fe. Esteso already had respiratory problems five years ago and was already hospitalized in the same center. The actor was admitted a couple of days ago for respiratory failure…. elperiodico

January 2026

  1. [31 Jan 2026] Ifunanya Nwangene, Kenyan singer, snake bite
    Ifunanya Nwangene tragically passed away on Saturday, January 31, after being bitten by a snake while asleep in her house. The musician was bitten by a cobra in her home in Abuja, Nigeria, during the night. Efforts to save her life proved futile, and she later passed away in hospital. …. tuko
  2. [31 Jan 2026] Miklós Fenyő, 78, Hungarian singer, songwriter and musician
    Miklós Fenyő died at the age of 78, the news was published on the musician’s Facebook page on Saturday morning. “With the deepest pain, we inform you that Miklós fell into an evergreen dream in the early hours of the morning… His music, lyrics, plays, books, all his spirit will remain with us forever. The family asks the media and those on social media to respect their grief,” the post reads…. telex
  3. [31 Jan 2026] Mingo Lewis, 72, American percussionist and drummer for Santana, Al Di Meola
    Master of percussion that revolutionized the sound of jazz-fusion and progressive rock by integrating complex Afro-Cuban rhythms with avant-garde synthesizers in his collaborations with Carlos Santana, Al Di Meola and Chick Corea. … altafidelidad
  4. [30 Jan 2026] Parthenon Huxley, 70, American musician for ELO Part II
    Parthenon Huxley, acclaimed singer-songwriter, producer, guitarist, and author, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 30, 2026, at the age of 70. Known for his melodic, brilliant songwriting, distinctive guitar style, and warm, expressive voice, Huxley leaves behind a musical legacy spanning more than five decades. … interfaithfunerals
  5. [30 Jan 2026] Fatih Ürek, 59, Turkish singer and actor, heart attack
    Fatih Ürek, 59, died in a private hospital where he was treated in Sarıyer this evening. In a statement made from the hospital where Fatih Ürek was treated, “The condition of our esteemed artist Fatih Ürek, who was hospitalized on October 15, 2025 after a heart attack at home and has been being treated in our hospital since that day, has suddenly deteriorated on January 30, 2026. … milliyet
  6. [30 Jan 2026] Abdelhadi Belkhayat, 85, Moroccan singer
    Abdelhadi Belkhayat, one of Morocco’s most famous singers, died on Friday night at 85 years old at the Military hospital in Rabat. Belkhayat was a legendary figure in Moroccan music and a beloved artist for many generations of listeners…. moroccoworldnews
  7. [29 Jan 2026] Wojciech Michniewski, 78, Polish composer and conductor
    Wojciech Michniewski, an outstanding conductor and renowned educator, died at the age of 79. The artist was born in Łódź and was also the artistic director of the Grand Theatre in Łódź. Wojciech Michniewski was born in Łódź and studied at the State Higher School of Music in Warsaw in the conducting class of Stanisław Wisłocki. He obtained his doctoral degree in music art in the field of conducting at the Academy of Music in Krakow. He conducted both symphonic concerts and opera performances, including exhibitions of contemporary operas… dzienniklodzki
  8. [28 Jan 2026] Maroochy Barambah, 70, Australian Turrbal elder and mezzo-soprano singer, cancer
    Maroochy Barambah, a traditional Songwoman and Turrbal Elder, has passed away at the age of 70, it has been revealed. News of Maroochy’s death was announced on Wednesday, January 28th by Turrbal Dippil, who confirmed that she passed away earlier in the day “following a courageous battle with cancer.”… themusic
  9. [28 Jan 2026] Nilton César, 86, Brazilian singer
    Singer Nilton Cesar died at the age of 86 on Wednesday (28/1). Mineiro, the artist marked the 1970s and 1980s with romantic songs of great success. The cause of death has not been disclosed…. metropoles
  10. [28 Jan 2026] Bryan Loren, 58, American songwriter of “Do the Bartman”, wrote for Michael Jackson
    The Michael Jackson fan community is mourning the loss of Bryan Loren, the gifted songwriter and producer who played a key creative role during the early stages of what would become Dangerous. Loren has passed away at the age of 58, leaving behind a legacy closely tied to a pivotal moment in MJ’s musical evolution…. mjvibe
  11. [27 Jan 2026] António Chainho, 88, Portuguese fado guitarist
    The musician and composer died on Tuesday at his residence in Alfragide, on the outskirts of Lisbon. The guitar definitely silenced itself the same day it would turn 88 … expresso
  12. [27 Jan 2026] Nigel Ogden, 71, British theatre organist and radio presenter for The Organist Entertains
    We are deeply saddened to report that Nigel Ogden, renowned organist and presenter of BBC Radio 2’s popular series ‘The Organist Entertains’ for over 38 years, passed away suddenly on the morning of Tuesday 27th January 2026, aged 71. … expresso
  13. [27 Jan 2026] Vladislav Chernushenko, 90, Russian conductor
    In St. Petersburg, on January 27, at the 91st year of life after a serious illness, a well-known musician died, who was the artistic director of the Capella since 1974, the People’s Artist of the USSR, the laureate of the State Prizes of the Russian Federation, an honorary citizen of St. Petersburg Vladislav Chernushenko. About it writes the “Petersburg diary” with reference to a source in the State Academic Chapel. On January 14, Chernushenko turned 90 years old. … vecherka-spb
  14. [26 Jan 2026] Sly Dunbar, 73, Jamaican songwriter, record producer and drummer for Sly and Robbie
    Sly Dunbar, the incredibly prolific Jamaican drummer who was one half of the legendary reggae rhythm section and production duo Sly & Robbie, has passed away. According to DancehallMag, Dunbar passed away this morning. Dunbar had reportedly been suffering from health issues for the past decade, though no cause of death has been reported. He was 73…. stereogum
  15. [26 Jan 2026] Béla Lattmann, 65, Hungarian jazz bassist
    “We were deeply saddened to learn that Béla Lattmann, former jazz bass guitar professor of the Jazz Department of the Liszt Ferenc Academy of Music, a legendary musician awarded with the Knight’s Cross of the Order of Merit of the Republic of Hungary, has passed away,” the Hungarian Jazz Association announced on 26 January…. papageno
  16. [25 Jan 2026] Gabe Lopez, American songwriter and producer, lymphoma
    Emmy-nominated RuPaul’s Drag Race crew member and songwriter Gabe Lopez has died, the music professional’s mother announced Monday. In a statement shared to Lopez’s personal, verified Instagram account, the songwriter’s mother, Connie Howard, confirmed that her son died on Sunday. … ew
  17. [25 Jan 2026] Lucky Widja, 49, Indonesian actor, singer, and songwriter for Element, kidney damage
    The vocalist of the band Element, Lucky Widja died. His body has been buried in TPU Jeruk Purut, Jakarta. Lucky Widja’s wife, Aleima Sharuna, tried to take hard to accept her husband’s departure. He also explained the chronology of the death of Lucky … detik
  18. [25 Jan 2026] Abhijit Majumdar, 54, Indian composer and music director, liver disease
    Popular Odia music composer and singer Abhijit Majumdar died on Sunday while undergoing treatment at AIIMS Bhubaneswar, hospital authorities said. He was 54. … tribuneindia
  19. [25 Jan 2026] Marie Rouanet, 89, French singer and writer
    Death of the writer Marie Rouanet: figurehead of Occitan culture, the artist died at 89 … midilibre
  20. [24 Jan 2026] Yuri Rymanov, 69, Russian guitarist for Lyube
    The former guitarist of the Lube band, Yuri Rymanov, died at the age of 70. This was announced on January 24 by the ensemble “Pour, song”, in which the artist performed. “Our Yuri has passed away… Yuri Rymanov is a great musician and guitarist who had an outstanding voice gift and knows how to use it all,” says the obituary posted on the band’s page on the VKontakte social network. … iz
  21. [23 Jan 2026] Dalibor Brun, 76, Croatian singer for Hurricanes
    As Jutarnji list unofficially learned, the legendary Croatian musician Dalibor Brun has died at the age of 82. Brun started his career in the Rijeka group Hurricanes, then became a member of the Korni Group, and since 1969 he has been building a solo career. … jutarnji
  22. [23 Jan 2026] Lula Lahfah, 26, Indonesian social media personality, singer
    Lula Lahfah, a popular Indonesian internet personality, died on Jan. 23. She was 26. The content creator was found dead in an apartment building in the Dharmawangsa neighborhood of South Jakarta, Indonesia, by security officers in the evening of Jan. 23, said Metro Jaya Police’s Head of Public Relations Kombes Budi Hermanto, per CNN Indonesia. … people
  23. [22 Jan 2026] Francis Buchholz, 71, German bass guitarist for Scorpions, cancer
     German bassist Francis Buchholz, best known for his two-decade tenure with Scorpions and being a member of Michael Schenker’s Temple of Rock, has sadly died aged 71. A post from Buchholz’ wife Hella, and his children Sebastian, Louisa and Marietta confirmed he died on Thursday (22nd January) following a private battle with cancer. … hellorayo
  24. [22 Jan 2026] Guy Hovis, 84, American singer for The Lawrence Welk Show
    Guy Hovis, the singer best known for his many appearances on “The Lawrence Welk Show,” has died, his daughter Julie confirmed to TMZ. Guy died peacefully Thursday night in Oxford, Mississippi … with Julie telling us he had been hospitalized for a couple of weeks with a lingering, undisclosed illness… tmz
  25. [22 Jan 2026] Stefania Stella, Italian actress and singer
    Farewell to Stefania Stella Di Giandomenico, actress and producer who combined artistic sensitivity and concreteness A career between cinema and TV, Factory productions and collaborations with the director Al Festa; funerals in Fiumicino on January 26 … lasicilia
  26. [21 Jan 2026] Kristinn Svavarsson, 78, Icelandic saxophonist for Mezzoforte
    Kristinn Svavarsson, the saxophonist of the band Mezzoforte, has died at the age of 78. Þórunn Helga Guðbjörnsdóttir, Kristinn’s wife, announced this in a post on Facebook and said that Kristinn’s funeral will take place at Lindarkirkja on Thursday 29 January. … ruv
  27. [20 Jan 2026] Rob Hirst, 70, Australian musician for Midnight Oil, pancreatic cancer
     The global music industry has been rocked by the death of legendary Midnight Oil drummer Rob Hirst, 70, after an almost three year battle with pancreatic cancer. Hirst is survived by his wife Lesley Holland and daughters Gabriella, Lex and Jay. … news
  28. [20 Jan 2026] Yaw Sarpong, Ghanaian gospel musician
    Legendary Ghanaian gospel musician, Yaw Sarpong, has reportedly passed away. The musician’s death was confirmed by artiste manager, Nana Poku Ashis, on Tuesday, January 20, 2026. … ghanaweb
  29. [19 Jan 2026] Billy Parker, 88, American country music singer and DJ
    Billy Parker might not be a name that many modern country music fans know, but as Channel 6 News in Oklahoma noted, he was an influential voice in the genre for decades. Parker died Monday morning in a Tulsa hospital, according to the outlet. … pennlive
  30. [19 Jan 2026] Mojmír Maděrič, 70, Czech actor, musician and host
    The Czech Republic was hit by the sad news. On Monday, actor, musician and presenter Mojmír Maděrič died, reports Blesk. Viewers of TV Prima knew him primarily from the role of Dr. Valenta in the series Blue Code and from the moderation of the show Mňam or Primavařka. He was 70 years old. … iprima
  31. [18 Jan 2026] Anders Möller, 63, Swedish musician for Black Ingvars, cancer
    Musician Anders Möller is dead, writes GP. He was a singer and guitarist in, among others, Black Ingvar’s and Swedish Erotica. Anders Möller was born in Mölndal in 1962 and began his musical career as a drummer in the punk band Slobobans Undergång in the 1970s… svt
  32. [18 Jan 2026] Stephen “Cat” Coore, 69, Jamaican guitarist and cellist Third World
    Stephen “Cat” Coore, co-founder of legendary reggae band Third World and one of Jamaica’s most respected musicians, has died. The iconic guitarist passed away suddenly on Sunday evening, according to a statement from his publicist. He was 69… jamaicaobserver
  33. [18 Jan 2026] Jaan Ross, 68, Estonian musicologist and psychologist
    The Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre is sad to announce that Professor Emeritus, Member of Academy Jaan Ross (05.04.1957–18.01.2026) passed away on 18 January. Jaan Ross was born on 5 April 1957 in Tartu in the family of mathematician Maimo Ross and the founder of contemporary Estonian atmospheric physics Juhan Ross. .. postimees
  34. [18 Jan 2026] Ralph Towner, 85, American jazz multi-instrumentalist
    The American composer and multi-instrumentalist Ralph Towner, master of the 12-string classical guitar and innovative jazz musician who had moved to the Italian capital for some years, has died in Rome. On March 1st he would have turned 86…. agi
  35. [17 Jan 2026] Tucker Zimmerman, 84, American singer-songwriter, smoke inhalation
    The horror set in Saint-Georges-sur-Meuse on Saturday morning where a couple lost their lives by suffocation after a fire broke out at their home. The two people who died are the American musician Tucker Zimmerman and his wife Marie-Claire. A terrible drama, especially for their neighbor Philippe who tried everything to save them…. sudinfo
  36. [17 Jan 2026] Marikena Monti, 82, Argentine actress and singer
    The endings are not always as one expects them. It happens in movies, it happens in life itself. However, for those who think that the important thing is the road traveled, Marikena, who died on Saturday, January 17, at the age of 82, could surely be satisfied…. lanacion
  37. [16 Jan 2026] Tony Dallara, 89, Italian singer
    Two songs that mark a three-year gold: As before (in 1957 it sells 300 thousand copies, a record for the time) and Romantica (with which Sanremo wins). The career of Tony Dallara, who died at the age of 89, was a flash that entered the refrains of Italy in the 1960s and remained there, words — as before, more than before I loved you — that survived an author who then failed to replicate the first big hits among which also stand out hot ice and child girl…. corriere
  38. [16 Jan 2026] Osvaldo Díaz, 76, Chilean singer
    The national singer Osvaldo Díaz, remembered exponent of the New Wave, died on Friday at the age of 76. The death of the artist was confirmed by Dr. Sebastián Ugarte, who shared the news through X….. cooperativa
  39. [16 Jan 2026] Marcel Osztas, 37, Slovak radio presenter and music concert host
    It only took a few days away from what the moderator Osťo announced his sad top. Today, his closest friends and collaborators are mourning him. Moderator and hypnoman Marcel Osťo Otztas, 37, was only announced at the end of 2025 that he was struggling with a serious illness and that the procurations were not good. …. cas
  40. [16 Jan 2026] Guillermo Rendón García, 90, Colombian composer and organist
    The music, art and academic thinking of Colombia are mourning the death of maestro Guillermo Rendón García, which occurred this Friday, January 16, at the age of 90. Composer, conductor, researcher and academic, Rendón left a profound legacy in the cultural history of the country, marked by the integration between artistic creation, science and memory of the peoples….. eltiempo
  41. [15 Jan 2026] Kenny Morris, 68, English drummer for Siouxsie and the Banshees
     Siouxsie and the Banshees drummer Kenny Morris has died. The news has been confirmed through multiple sources, including a note from Morris’ friend and journalist John Robb on Louder Than War. … clashmusic
  42. [15 Jan 2026] Raju Bandara, 65, Sri Lankan singer, kidney disease
    Veteran Sri Lankan singer and musician Raju Bandara has passed away at the age of 65, family sources confirmed. According to the family, Raju Bandara died following a brief illness. He was a well-known figure in Sri Lanka’s music industry, with a career spanning several decades as a singer, composer and stage performer … newswire
  43. [15 Jan 2026] Rubén Patagonia, 69, Argentine singer
    Rubén Patagonia, a key figure in folklore and cultural reference of southern Argentina, died at the age of 69 … infobae
  44. [14 Jan 2026] Ado Schlier, 90, German radio personality for Bayerischer Rundfunk
    Ado Schlier was known as a radio and television presenter. He has commented on the “Eurovision Song Contest,” for example, and founded the “Songs on a Summer Evening.” Now the music journalist has died in Würzburg at the age of 90. … br
  45. [14 Jan 2026] Melania Pérez, 76, Argentine singer
    The world of Argentine folklore is mourning the death of Melania Pérez, a prominent Salteña singer with a long career and a voice that became a true reference of Argentine music. … lavoz
  46. [14 Jan 2026] Quemil Yambay, 87, Paraguayan musician and composer
    The Paraguayan musician and composer Quemil Yambay, considered an icon of national folklore that popularized traditional genres such as polka and songs in the Guaraní language, died on Wednesday at the age of 87, his relatives reported. … elnuevodiario
  47. [13 Jan 2026] Seán Ó Sé, 89, Irish tenor singer
    The death has occurred of renowned Cork singer, educator and raconteur Seán Ó Sé, who has died three days shy of his 90th birthday. … irishexaminer
  48. [12 Jan 2026] Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin, 26, British guitarist Black Midi
     Black Midi guitarist Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin has died at the age of 26. News of the musician’s death was confirmed this afternoon (Jan. 12) via the U.K. band’s label, Rough Trade. They shared a statement from Kwasniewski-Kelvin’s family which revealed he died following a battle with mental health. … rollingstone
  49. [12 Jan 2026] Sheila Bernette, 94, English singer for The Good Old Days
    Singer and actress Sheila Bernette, who performed many times on the Good Old Days, has died aged 94, a friend has confirmed. The entertainer had a lengthy career, but is best known for her stint in the long-running BBC music hall programme. … manchestereveningnews
  50. [12 Jan 2026] John Forté, 50, American rapper for Refugee Camp All-Stars
    John Forté, a Grammy-nominated recording artist and loving father of two young children, died suddenly in his home in Chilmark on Monday. He was 50 years old. … mvtimes
  51. [11 Jan 2026] John Wallace, 76, Scottish trumpeter, composer and arts educator
    News just arrived that the great Scottish trumpet player John Wallace died early today. John was principal trumpet for two years each with the Royal Philharmonic and the LSO, then for 19 years with the Philharmonia Orchestra…. slippedisc
  52. [11 Jan 2026] Prashant Tamang, 43, Indian singer for Indian Idol, cardiac arrest
    Singer and actor Prashant Tamang, 43, winner of Indian Idol Season 3, died on Sunday at his residence in New Delhi, sources said. Filmmaker Rajesh Ghatani confirmed Tamang’s death, while West Bengal’s Darjeeling-based singer Mahesh Sewa said he reportedly suffered a cardiac arrest. He was living in Delhi at the time. … nenow
  53. [10 Jan 2026] Bob Weir, 78, American musician and songwriter for Grateful Dead, cancer
     Bob Weir, the veteran rock musician who helped guide the legendary band the Grateful Dead through decades of change and success, has died at age 78, according to a statement posted to his verified Instagram account on Friday. … theguardian
  54. [10 Jan 2026] Yeison Jiménez, 34, Colombian singer, plane crash
    Popular music is in mourning: in a plane crash this afternoon in Paipa (Boyacá) the renowned popular music singer Yeison Jiménez, three of his companions, the pilot and the co-pilot of the private plane, died. … eltiempo
  55. [09 Jan 2026] Terry Sullivan, 87, British drummer for Renaissance
     Terry Sullivan, drummer with Renaissance’s classic 1970s lineup, has died. The news was confirmed by Renaissance singer Annie Haslam, now the only survivor of that lineup. … loudersound
  56. [09 Jan 2026] Joseph Dieudonné Larose, 80, Haitian singer
    Haiti’s musical communities and fans of konpa were in deep mourning Friday at the news that singer Joseph Dieudonné Larose died on Friday, in Canada, where he had been living. … haitiantimes
  57. [08 Jan 2026] Dave Hitchcock, 76, English record producer
    Yesterday, news leaked that Foxtrot producer David Hitchcock had passed away on Thursday. David Hitchcock is dead. The music producer passed away last Thursday. This was confirmed by his family yesterday. Hitchcock was born in 1949 and began his career in 1967 at Decca Records. … genesis-news
  58. [08 Jan 2026] Matthew Taylor, 58, American musician for Bellini, heart attack
    Matthew Taylor RIP Matt was the bassist for Bellini. I put on the two shows they performed in Atlanta and Athens, but I was on the Mr. Show tour that summer. Can’t say it wasn’t the first time a show went on without me being there. So you can imagine my disbelief when Matt called me the early morning after the Athens show (I was in Boston at the time) to tell me that drummer Damon Fitzgerald quit the band during the second song of their set at the Caledonia. … chunkletindustries
  59. [08 Jan 2026] Rhoda Levine, 93, American opera director and choreographer
    Opera director Rhoda Levine has died at the age of 93. Born in New York City, she graduated from the Bard College and went on to become a formidable Opera director choreographer educator. … operawire
  60. [08 Jan 2026] Guy Moon, 63, American composer, traffic collision
    Guy Moon, the four-time Emmy-nominated composer behind Nickelodeon’s popular animated series The Fairly OddParents, has died at the age of 63. Per his family and a Los Angeles County Medical Examiner report, Moon was killed Thursday morning in an accidental traffic collision and succumbed to traumatic injuries. … deadline
  61. [07 Jan 2026] Rebecca Kilgore, 76, American jazz vocalist
     It might sound melodramatic, but the sky is darker because our dear Rebecca Kilgore is no longer with us. I learned the news on the morning of January 8, that she had died peacefully the evening before, having suffered a long debilitating illness. I could not wish for that state to be prolonged a moment longer, but I expect to miss her as long as I have consciousness and hearing. Earlier today, I posted these few lines on Facebook: I learned this morning that the wonderful singer Rebecca Kilgore has died. Writing these words is difficult. … wordpress
  62. [07 Jan 2026] Ihor Blazhkov, 89, Ukrainian conductor
    Ukrainian composer and one of the leaders of the informal group of Ukrainian artists “Kyiv Avant-garde” Igor Blazhkov died on January 7 at the age of 90. This was announced by Ukrainian pianist Yevhen Hromov on Facebook. … gordonua
  63. [07 Jan 2026] James Bernard, American music journalist and magazine editor for The Source
     Legendary hip-hop journalist, editor, and media executive James Bernard — a founding editorial force behind “The Source” and co-founder of “XXL” magazine — has died. Bernard, widely recognized as one of the architects who helped transform hip-hop journalism into a respected cultural force, played a pivotal role in shaping how the genre was covered and understood during its ascent from underground movement to global phenomenon. … thegrio
  64. [06 Jan 2026] Rhoda Levine, 93, American opera director and choreographer
    Opera director Rhoda Levine has died at the age of 93. Born in New York City, she graduated from the Bard College and went on to become a formidable Opera director choreographer educator. As an opera director Levine went on to work at Cape Town Opera, Glimmerglass Opera, New York City Opera, Kentucky Opera, Nederlandse Opera, Theatre of St. Louis, San Diego Opera, Santa Fe Opera, Belgium’s Opéra National, Scottish Opera, and San Francisco Opera. … operawire
  65. [06 Jan 2026] Jim McBride, 78, American country music songwriter
     Jim McBride, a Huntsville native and acclaimed songwriter who co-wrote country hits including “Chattahoochee” and “Chasing That Neon Rainbow”, died Tuesday at 78 years old. McBride’s songs were recorded by country music legends including Johnny Cash, George Jones, Reba McEntire, Alabama, Willie Nelson, Charley Pride, Kris Kristofferson, Randy Travis, Brenda Lee, Jerry Lee Lewis, Toby Keith and Dwight Yoakam. … waff
  66. [05 Jan 2026] Mike Embro, 63, Canadian drummer for Razor
    BraveWords has learned former Razor drummer Mike Embro has died at the age of 63. Embro was part of Razor’s initial formation in 1983 and played with the thrashers until 1987 and on four studio albums – Executioner’s Song, Evil Invaders, Malicious Intent, and Custom Killing. … bravewords
  67. [05 Jan 2026] Andrew Bodnar, 71, English bass guitarist for The Rumour
     British bassist Andrew Bodnar has died at the age of 71. That was announced by Graham Parker on Monday via social media. Bodnar gained fame in the second half of the 70’s as a member of Graham Parker & The Rumour, which acted as a permanent accompaniment band but also had independent success. With Don’t Ask Me Questions (1978) and Frozen Years (1979) The Rumour made it to the Dutch Top 40. … hitzound
  68. [05 Jan 2026] Andrew Carter, 86, English composer and conductor
    We are saddened to learn of the passing of composer Andrew Carter. Our thoughts are with his family, students, and colleagues. … morningstarmusic
  69. [04 Jan 2026] Andrew Ure, 41, Scottish singer for The Ray Summers
    Tributes have been paid to a Falkirk musician and entrepreneur who died while hillwalking on a Scottish mountain. Andrew Ure was the lead singer of Falkirk’s The Ray Summers, who have supported Paolo Nutini and Dove, and was also a director of the Wee Whisky Shop in Linlithgow. … heraldscotland
  70. [05 Jan 2026] Elsje de Wijn, 82, Dutch actress and singer
     Actress Elsje de Wijn, known for the carnival number Karel, has died at the age of 82. Her daughter, VPRO editor-in-chief Sarah Sylbing, announced the news to the ANP on Monday. De Wijn died at home in Amsterdam-Noord, in front of her children and grandchildren. … nu
  71. [04 Jan 2026] Roger Pinney,80, Canadian tax accountant and musician
    Locally respected tax accountant, Roger Ernest Pinney, age 80, passed away peacefully in his sleep of natural causes on January 4, 2026, in his Gravenhurst, Ontario home. He will be sadly missed by his adoring partner, Lynda Valcourt, and by both of their families and friends. … muskokatoday
  72. [04 Jan 2026] Peter-Lukas Graf, 96, Swiss flautist
    The Swiss flutist, conductor, and pedagogue Peter-Lukas Graf has died in 2026, just short of his 97th birthday. Born in Zurich on 5 January 1929, Graf was one of the most influential European flutists of the post-war period, with a career that combined international performance, teaching, recording, and scholarship…. moto-perpetuo
  73. [04 Jan 2026] Calbo, 52, French rapper for Ärsenik
     The artist Calboni M’Bani, better known as Calbo, died Sunday, January 4 at the age of 52, his relatives announced. He was known for founding the duo Ärsenik with his brother Lino…. ouest-france
  74. [03 Jan 2026] Mesut İktu, 78, Turkish operatic baritone
    In his social media accounts, Istanbul State Opera and Ballet (İDOB) announced the death of the former director and art director of the institution, Iktu, in his social media accounts regarding the death of the artist. Iktu was born on 31 May 1947. After completing his education at Istanbul Municipal Conservatory, Ankara State Conservatory and Berlin State Music and Performing Arts High School, he joined Istanbul State Opera and Ballet in 1973…. aa
  75. [02 Jan 2026] Ritva Auvinen, 93, Finnish opera singer
    Opera singer, soprano Ritva Auvinen has died. The information is confirmed to HS by actor Sinikka Sokka. Auvinen was Sokka’s aunt. Auvinen died on Friday 2 January afternoon at Laakso Hospital in Helsinki…. hs
  76. [02 Jan 2026] Bohdan Chufus, 75, Ukrainian journalist, actor and singer
    Actor, singer, member of the National Union of Journalists of Ukraine, announcer of Odesa TV, People’s Artist of Ukraine Bohdan Chufus died on January 2, 2026…. intent
  77. [02 Jan 2026] Jenny Collins, 83, English radio presenter for BBC Radio Merseyside
    A founding member of BBC Radio Merseyside has died. Jenny Collins was part of the team that launched BBC Radio Merseyside in 1967, dedicating many years to the station…. liverpoolecho
  78. [02 Jan 2026] Johnny Legend, 77, American rockabilly musician, film producer and wrestling manager, stroke
    Rockabilly music icon Johnny Legend passed away. I believe he was 78. He has a major connection to pro wrestling and was an Observer reader for decades. I met him several times at events. Born Martin Margulies, he was a big fan of Los Titanes en el Ring, the crazy wrestling from Argentina and founded Incredibly Strange Wrestling in San Francisco, which was based on that promotion. He was a performer in music who heavily copied Fred Blassie and Gorgeous George,and was friends with Blassie and did a number of projects with him. … f4wonline
  79. [02 Jan 2026] Tony Carr, 98, Maltese session drummer and percussionist for CCS
    Tony Carr, the prolific Maltese drummer and percussionist, died on Friday morning at the age of 98. … timesofmalta
  80. [01 Jan 2026] Damian Jackson, British brass player
    4BR has been informed of the death of Littleborough Brass player Damian Jackson, one of its longest serving members. A highly talented musician and committed bandsman, at some point in his career he held most seats around the band — from soprano and principal cornet to flugel, horn, baritone, euphonium and even percussion. . … 4barsrest