Richard Tandy, the keyboardist of Birmingham-based rock band Electric Light Orchestra (ELO), has sadly passed away aged 76.
Although best known for his keyboard playing, Tandy originally joined ELO as a bass player in 1972, forming part of their first live line-up which began as a side project of The Move — another Birmingham-based act that had released a string of hit UK singles in the late ’60s and early ‘70s. He took over as the band’s keyboardist following the departure of Roy Wood, with his playing style and choice of instruments — including the likes of a Minimoog, Oberheims, Yamaha CS-80, ARP 2600 and a Mellotron, among others — forming a integral part of the band’s signature sound.
He featured on every ELO album with the exception of ‘No Answer’, which was recorded in 1971 before he had joined, and reunited with Jeff Lynne in 2012 to record a live set of the band’s greatest hits, which was captured at Lynne’s home studio. In 2017, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of ELO.
ELO’s founder Jeff Lynne has released the following statement: "It is with great sadness that I share the news of the passing of my long-time collaborator and dear friend Richard Tandy. He was a remarkable musician and friend, and I'll cherish the lifetime of memories we had together. Sending all my love to Sheila and the Tandy family."
