Rick Davies, the musician and vocalist whose advertisement in a British music publication led to the creation of Supertramp, a highly successful band in the 1970s and early ’80s, has passed away at the age of 81. The band announced his death on their official website, stating that Davies succumbed to multiple myeloma, a form of blood cancer he had been battling for over a decade.
Described as the voice and pianist behind Supertramp’s most iconic songs, Davies, in partnership with Roger Hodgson, played a pivotal role in shaping the band’s distinctive sound. The band acknowledged his soulful vocals and unique Wurlitzer style as integral components of their musical identity.
The collaboration between Davies and Hodgson propelled Supertramp to commercial success, with their album “Breakfast in America” selling over 20 million copies, making it one of the top-selling albums of 1979 alongside Pink Floyd, the Bee Gees, and Michael Jackson.
Born in Swindon, England, in 1944, Davies developed his musical talents playing drums and piano in various British bands during the 1960s. After placing an ad in Melody Maker seeking talented musicians, he connected with Roger Hodgson, a tenor vocalist and guitarist.
Taking inspiration from the book “The Autobiography of a Super-Tramp” by W.H. Davies, the band initially released two albums that received modest commercial success. However, their breakthrough came with the album “Crime of the Century” in 1974, featuring hit tracks like “Bloody Well Right” and “Dreamer.”
Despite their differing backgrounds and personalities, Davies and Hodgson’s partnership flourished, blending pop and progressive rock elements in their music. The band’s success led to extensive global touring, although internal tensions surfaced over time.
Following Hodgson’s departure, Supertramp continued releasing albums into the 1980s, with Davies and John Helliwell remaining as core members. Despite facing legal disputes and lineup changes, the band’s legacy endures, with Davies remembered for his musical contributions and enduring partnership with his wife, Sue, spanning over five decades.