The Sweet’s bass guitarist Steve Priest has died at the age of 72, his band members confirmed on their official Facebook page.
The band shot to fame in the 1970s, with Steve being one of the founding members.
The statement shared by Steve’s bandmates read: “It is with a heavy heart that we announce at 8:25am PT today, Steve Priest, founding member of The Sweet, passed away.
“He is survived by his wife Maureen, three daughters, Lisa, Daniella and Maggie, and three grandchildren, Jordan, Jade and Hazel.”
Steve lived with his wife Maureen and daughters Danielle and Margaret “Maggie” in La Cañada Flintridge in California.
Steve lived in California with his wife Maureen (Image: Getty Images)
The band members confirmed the statement had come from Steve’s family.
After the initial post, they shared another which read: “Just a quick not to say ‘thank you’ to everyone for the sincere condolences.
“We are very saddened but also very appreciative of your loyalty and kindness these many years.
“We may not be able to get back to everyone individually but please know Steve’s family and the band are aware of and appreciate your thoughts.”
The Sweet achieved global success in the 1970s (Image: Redferns)
The band’s most famous line-up consisted of bassist Steve, lead vocalist Brian Connolly, guitarist Andy Scott and drummer Mick Tucker.
Formed in London in 1968, and originally called Sweetshop, they went on to achieve their first hit in 1971 with Funny Funny.
The band had 13 Top 20 hits in the 1970s including a No1 with Block Buster! and three consecutive No2 hits – Hell Raiser, The Ballroom Blitz and Teenage Rampage.
It was during the 1970s that the band achieved global success too, hitting the top of the charts in countries including Australia, Canada, Denmark, Germany, Sweden, South Africa and the Netherlands.
Steve formed his own version of the band in 2008 with guitarist Stuart Smith, Richie Onori on drums, Stevie Stewart on the keyboard and Joe Retta as the front-man and vocalist.
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
