Status Quo guitarist Rick Parffit has died aged 68.
The Telecaster-wielding legend was admitted to hospital in Marbella, Spain on Thursday (22 December) following complications from a pre-existing shoulder injury incurred by a previous fall. He died there in hospital at lunch time today (24 December) due to a severe infection.
Queen guitarist Brian May paid tribute to Parfitt on Twitter saying: "You well and truly rocked our world. RIP dear buddy."
Sex Pistols' John Lydon recently told Gigwise "Status Quo I always loved. What they've done with three notes is brilliant. It's so powerfully warming and they loved dancing and. I just love that."
Their no nonsense rock formula has stood the test of time with them being referred to by so many as one of the greatest bands of all time - highlights of their career include opening Live Aid in 1985. Few could match the Quo formula.
With the music, came a rock 'n' roll lifestyle and Parfitt suffered had a series of heart attacks over the years.
A statement from his manager and family says: “This tragic news comes at a time when Rick was hugely looking forward to launching a solo career with an album and autobiography planned for 2017, following his departure from Status Quo’s touring activities on medical advice. He will be sorely missed by his family, friends, fellow band members, management, crew and his dedicated legion of fans from throughout the world, gained through 50 years of monumental success with Status Quo.”
It added: “Rick is survived by his wife, Lyndsay, their twins, Tommy and Lily, and Rick’s adult children, Rick Jr and Harry. No further comment will be made at this time and Rick’s family and the band ask for their privacy to be respected at this difficult time.”
Parfitt joins a long list of incredible musicians to have died in 2016, including David Bowie, Prince, and Leonard Cohen.
