Photo: Press
John Wetton, the lead singer and bass player with prog rocker Asia, has died aged 67 after a battle with colon cancer
Wetton, who initially found fame as the bass player in King Crimson, had already pulled out of Asia’s upcoming co-headline tour with Journey. On 11 January he said: “I am disappointed to announce that, on the advice of my medical team, I have to withdraw from Cruise to the Edge, and from the first leg of the Journey tour. I will soon be starting a new medical chemotherapy procedure, under which I will not be able to fly.” He had intended to rejoin the band on tour later this year.
Asia’s revolving line-up featured some of the biggest names in 1970s and 80s British prog. Wetton’s place on vocals and bass will be taken by Billy Sherwood, formerly of Yes, whose guitarist Steve Howe is also a former member. The band could also boast Wetton’s former King Crimson mate Greg Lake among its former members and Carl Palmer – both of Emerson Lake and Palmer – is their current drummer. Elliot Randall, whose guitar solo on Steely Dan’s ‘Reelin’ in the Years’ is supposedly Jimmy Page’s favourite of all time, is a former member and their current keyboard player and pianist is former Buggle Geoff Downes. Whew.
Palmer said in a statement: “John was a gentle person who created some of the most lasting melodies and lyrics in modern popular music. As a musician, he was both brave and innovative, with a voice that took the music of Asia to the top of the charts around the world. His ability to triumph over alcohol abuse made him an inspiration to many who have also fought that battle. For those of us who knew him and worked with him, his valiant struggle against cancer was a further inspiration. I will miss his talent, his sense of humor and his infectious smile.”
It is believed that Asia will continue touring. You can look out for tickets here.
