Dave Greenfield, keyboardist of punk legends The Stranglers, dies from Covid-19 complications
The music industry just lost another stalwart in the form of Dave Greenfield, best known as the keyboardist of the legendary British punk and new wave group The Stranglers.
The 71-year-old musician responsible for their renowned 1982 hit 'Golden Brown' passed away on May 3 due to Covid-19 complications, making him yet another casualty of the pandemic that is currently sweeping the globe. The Stranglers announced his death on their official page and paid a heartfelt tribute to him.
The statement read: "We are deeply and profoundly saddened to announce the untimely passing of keyboard legend Dave Greenfield on the evening of May 3, 2020, following a stay in the hospital for heart problems."
"Dave tested positive for the Covid-19 virus last Sunday (April 26) but he sadly lost his battle last night. Dave had been an ever-present in the band since joining in late 1975 and his keyboard wizardry was world-renowned over his 45-year career in The Stranglers."
"Dave was a lovable, friendly, and eccentric character who always had time to chat," the statement added.
The Stranglers started off as the Guildford Stranglers in 1974 as part of the punk rock explosion in the UK. In their first year itself, Dave Greenfield was roped in as the replacement for their original keyboardist Hans Wärmling.
He helped shape the band's pioneering sound with his signature use of rapid arpeggios and unique playing style, reminiscent of Ray Manzarek of The Doors.
Although a punk rock band at heart, The Stranglers were one of the UK's most beloved genre-defying rock bands, going on to explore every possible musical style from new wave and art rock to gothic rock and sophisti-pop throughout their long-serving career.
The Stranglers first encountered major mainstream success with their 1982 single 'Golden Brown', which subtly referenced heroin — Greenfield helped conceive the melody for that surreal hedonistic anthem.
Through the years, The Stranglers crafted other hits which included 'No More Heroes', 'Peaches', 'Always the Sun' and 'Skin Deep, and went on to claim 23 UK top 40 singles and 17 UK top 40 albums over the next four decades.
Speaking about Greenfield's death, The Stranglers' founding member Jet Black said, "We have just lost a dear friend and music genius, and so has the whole world. Dave was a complete natural in music. Together, we toured the globe endlessly and it was clear he was adored by millions. A huge talent, a great loss, he is dearly missed."
Guitarist of The Stranglers, Baz Warne also said, "We lost a true innovator, musical legend, and one of my dearest friends today. The word genius is bandied around far too easily in this day and age, but Dave Greenfield certainly was one."
"We stood together on the same side of the stage for 20 years, laughed, joked, and shared our lives in the way that only bandmates can. I’ll miss him forever. Our thoughts and hearts are with his wife Pam, and to the millions of fans who worshipped at his altar, he'll never be equaled," he added.
Other musicians also paid tribute to his legacy. REM's Michael Stipe tweeted, "Today we honor the music and life of Dave Greenfield. He was a brilliant songwriter and performer, and we thank him and The Stranglers for their inspiration, contribution, songs, and attitude."
Former The Stranglers singer Hugh Cornwell stated, "I am very sorry to hear of the passing of Dave Greenfield. He was the difference between The Stranglers and every other punk band. His musical skill and gentle nature gave an interesting twist to the band."
The band Echo and The Bunnymen also posted a dismayed reaction: "RIP Dave Greenfield, can’t believe this." Other fans paid tribute to the beloved musician, with one saying: "RIP Dave Greenfield. You sent me on my life long rabbit hole love affair with keyboards and synths."
Another longtime follower posted: "Just leaving my respects for Dave Greenfield. A musical genius, he elevated the group right from the beginning, taking it from a typical mid-70s pub band to an incredibly creative poster child for alternative music."
"Dave, your keyboard virtuosity and songwriting skill will be sorely missed. I'm sure your passing will have a lasting impact on many," the fan added,