Richard Tandy, the esteemed keyboardist of Electric Light Orchestra, passed away at the age of 76. He was honored with an induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2017.
Jeff Lynne, the founder of the British rock band, took to social media on Thursday to share the news of Tandy’s passing.
“I am deeply saddened to announce the loss of my long-time collaborator and dear friend, Richard Tandy. He possessed incredible musical talent and was an exceptional companion, and I will forever treasure the countless memories we shared,” expressed Lynne in a heartfelt Instagram post.
Lynne also shared multiple photos and a video showcasing the cherished moments they have shared throughout the years.
The cause of death remains undisclosed.
Lynne brought the group back to life in 2014, nearly 30 years after their dissolution in 1986, under the name Jeff Lynne’s ELO. Tandy was one of the few former members who decided to rejoin the band.
In 2015, Lynne and Tandy had the opportunity to perform with Ed Sheeran at the 57th Grammy Awards. The audience was filled with stars, including Paul McCartney, who couldn’t resist singing and dancing along as they played their iconic songs “Evil Woman” and “Mr Blue Sky.”
In 2017, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame welcomed ELO into its prestigious ranks, alongside fellow inductees Joan Baez, Pearl Jam, Tupac Shakur, Yes, Journey, and Nile Rodgers. At the ceremony, Jeff Lynne, the frontman of ELO, paid tribute to Chuck Berry by delivering a powerful rendition of “Roll Over Beethoven.”
In 2021, ELO commemorated the 50th anniversary of the band’s formation in Birmingham, England by Lynne, drummer Bevan, and Roy Wood (who left in 1972).
In March, the band made an exciting announcement about their final tour, The Over and Out Tour. Known for their chart-topping hits like “Strange Magic” and “Don’t Bring Me Down,” the band will be performing across North America from August through October.
Richard Tandy, the talented keyboardist of Electric Light Orchestra, has sadly passed away at the age of 76. His remarkable contributions to the band will forever be remembered.