The Stranglers keyboardist Dave Greenfield dies following COVID-19 battle, aged 71
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05.05.2020

The Stranglers keyboardist Dave Greenfield dies following COVID-19 battle, aged 71

Words by Kate Streader

He recently learned he had contracted the virus after being admitted to hospital for heart problems.

After being diagnosed with coronavirus last Sunday, keyboardist and member of UK punk outfit The Stranglers has died at the age of 71. The news was confirmed by his bandmates on Facebook.

“We are deeply and profoundly saddened to announce the untimely passing of keyboard legend Dave Greenfield on the evening of 3rd May 2020. Following a stay in hospital for heart problems, Dave tested positive for the Covid-19 virus last Sunday but he sadly lost his battle last night,” reads the statement.

“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 official statement also contains an outpouring of love from his bandmates JJ Burnel, Jet Black and Baz Warne, as well as the band’s manager Sil Wilcox, each describing Greenfield as a dear friend, innovator and musical genius.

The Stranglers recently visited Australia for a string of live performances in February at which time Burnel told us there could be a new album from the band on the way. The pandemic caused them to reschedule subsequent international tour dates which were originally due to take place this month.

News of his passing has been felt throughout the music scene and beyond, with the likes of Pixies’ Black Francis, Echo & The Bunnymen and many more paying their respects on Twitter.

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