Jeff Lynne announces the death of ELO keyboardist Richard Tandy, 76.
Richard Tandy, keyboardist for the Electric Light Orchestra, has died at the age of 76.
The announcement was made by ELO leader Jeff Lynne, who paid tribute to a “remarkable musician”.
Tandy helped shape the sound of the British rock band, which is best known for hits like Mr Blue Sky and Last Train To London.
Lynne posted on social media: “It is with great sadness that I announce the death of my long-time collaborator and dear friend Richard Tandy.
“He was an incredible musician and friend, and I’ll cherish the memories we made together for the rest of my life.”
“Sending all my love to Sheila and the Tandy family.”
Tandy, who was born in Birmingham, joined ELO following the release of the band’s debut album in 1972.
He began as a bass guitarist before becoming the keyboardist when Roy Wood left.
He also contributed to the band’s distinct futuristic sound by playing the Minimoog synthesizer, a Wurlitzer electric piano, clavinet, Mellotron, and piano.
He also provided his voice for the 1977 hit Mr Blue Sky.
He was a key member of the band’s ever-changing lineups, alongside Lynne and drummer Bev Bevan, until their split in 1986.
When Lynne reformed the band as Jeff Lynne’s ELO in 2014, Tandy returned.
He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with the band in 2017 and was referred to as Lynne’s “multi-instrumentalist, co-orchestrator, and valued musical partner.”
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