Influential Gang of Four guitarist Andy Gill has died, the band has confirmed.
Gill, who was 64, was a founder member of the band, who formed in Leeds in 1976.
The debut Entertainment! is a British post-punk classic and was named in Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Albums of All Time.
They are known for hit singles Damaged Goods, I Love a Man in Uniform, and At Home He’s a Tourist.
Gill helped produce albums for the likes of Red Hot Chili Peppers, The Futureheads, The Stranglers and Michael Hutchence.
In a statement released on social media, the British post-punk band said: “This is so hard for us to write, but our great friend and Supreme Leader has died today.
“Andy’s final tour in November was the only way he was ever really going to bow out; with a Stratocaster around his neck, screaming with feedback and deafening the front row.
Andy Gill, performing with Gang Of Four at Kanalrock at Bueskytterbanen on August 04, 2018 in Horten, Norway.
“His uncompromising artistic vision and commitment to the cause meant that he was still listening to mixes for the upcoming record, whilst planning the next tour from his hospital bed.
“But to us, he was our friend – and we’ll remember him for his kindness and generosity, his fearsome intelligence, bad jokes, mad stories and endless cups of Darjeeling tea. He just so happened to be a bit of a genius too.
“One of the best to ever do it, his influence on guitar music and the creative process was inspiring for us, as well as everyone who worked alongside him and listened to his music. And his albums and production work speak for themselves. Go give ‘em a spin for him…”
The tribute was signed off by his band mates John Sterry, Thomas McNeice and Tobias Humble.
Gill was the sole remaining member of Gang of Four since their inception.
Tributes have been pouring in for Gill, whose jagged guitar sound helped influence a generation of bands including Franz Ferdinand, Bloc Party, REM and LCD Soundsystem.
Music journalist James McMahon said on Twitter: “Gang of Four are one of the greatest bands of all time. Andy Gill was one of the greatest ever to do it.
“A sad day.”
Gary Numan wrote: “Andy was a unique talent.”
The Futureheads, whose 2004 self-titled debut album was produced by Gill, added: “So sad to hear about the passing of Andy Gill.
“Gang of Four were one of the best and working with Andy on our early singles and first album set us on our path. A true gent. Absolutely gutted.”
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
