Musicians Who Died in 2023

In 2023, the music world lost some truly remarkable musicians and artists, leaving a significant void. These musicians who died in 2023, had shaped our lives and tastes, left a legacy of unforgettable tunes and emotional moments. From rock legends to jazz innovators, their music touched our hearts and became the soundtrack to our lives.

As we reflect on this year, we remember not just their hit songs or groundbreaking albums but the emotions their music stirred in us. These artists came from various genres and backgrounds, each contributing something unique and special. Their passing reminds us of the powerful impact music has on our lives and culture.

Join us as we pay tribute to the Musicians Who Died in 2023, celebrating their lives, their art, and the lasting imprint they left on the music industry.

Musicians death in January 2023

Fred White

Fred E. White (January 13, 1955 – January 1, 2023) was an influential American musician and songwriter best known as an early Earth, Wind & Fire member. White played a pivotal role in the band’s success, contributing his drumming skills to classic albums like That’s the Way of the World and All ‘n All. His musical journey began with drumming on Donny Hathaway’s Live album and extended to collaborations with artists such as Linda Ronstadt and The Emotions. White’s contributions earned him recognition when Earth, Wind & Fire was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2000.

Despite his notable achievements, White’s passing on January 1, 2023, at the age of 67, marked the end of a distinguished era for the band and the broader music community. His legacy endures through his extensive discography and lasting impact on funk and soul music.

Jeff Beck

Jeff Beck was a pioneering English guitarist renowned for his innovative contributions to rock and blues. Beck gained prominence as a member of the Yardbirds, succeeding Eric Clapton, and later led the Jeff Beck Group and Beck, Bogert & Appice. Renowned for his versatile style, Beck seamlessly navigated genres including blues rock, jazz fusion, and electronica, earning acclaim as a “guitarist’s guitarist” and ranking consistently among the greatest guitarists by Rolling Stone.

Despite his critical success, with Grammy Awards and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductions, Beck’s commercial impact was more modest than his peers. His groundbreaking solo work, such as Blow by Blow and Wired, showcased his relentless innovation. Beck’s influence on modern guitar playing endured until his death on January 10, 2023, marking the end of an era for rock and blues music.

Robbie Bachman

Robin Peter Kendall Bachman, born on February 18, 1953, was a prominent Canadian drummer best known for his role in the bands Brave Belt and Bachman–Turner Overdrive (BTO). As the youngest brother of guitarist Randy Bachman, Robin was integral to BTO’s success, contributing to classic hits like “Roll On Down the Highway.” He joined Brave Belt in 1971, co-wrote tracks for their albums, and continued with the rebranded BTO in 1973.

Despite leaving the band in 1979 and declining a 1984 reunion due to disputes, Robin returned for tours with the Not Fragile lineup until 2004. His drumming and creative input were crucial to BTO’s iconic sound. Robin Bachman passed away on January 12, 2023, at the age of 69. He is remembered for his significant impact on rock music and contributions to Canadian rock history.

Van Conner

Van Patrick Conner (March 17, 1967 – January 17, 2023) was an influential American rock musician renowned as the bassist for Screaming Trees. Conner, who began his musical journey in high school with his brother Gary Lee Conner and Mark Pickerel in the band Explosive Generation, played a pivotal role in Screaming Trees after its formation in 1985. The band, known for its significant contributions to the grunge movement, saw success with Conner’s distinctive bass work on seven studio albums until their breakup in 2000.

Beyond Screaming Trees, Conner was involved in side projects such as Solomon Grundy and Gardener and played with Dinosaur Jr. and VALIS. Conner’s health deteriorated following emergency stomach surgery in late 2021, compounded by a COVID-19 infection. He struggled with severe health issues before passing away from pneumonia on January 17, 2023, at the age of 55.

Peter McCann

Peter James McCann was a distinguished American songwriter, musician, and songwriter’s advocate, celebrated for hits like “Do You Wanna Make Love” and “Right Time of the Night.” He was born on March 6, 1948. McCann’s career began at Fairfield University, where he formed the folk-rock band the Repairs. Moving to Los Angeles in 1971, he gained prominence with his hit single “Right Time of the Night,” which topped the charts and led to further success. Relocating to Nashville in 1987, McCann became a prolific songwriter, penning hits for numerous artists and contributing to country music’s rich tapestry.

Beyond his music career, he passionately advocated songwriters’ rights, lecturing on copyright law and lobbying for industry reforms. McCann passed away on January 26, 2023, at his Nashville home, leaving a legacy of influential music and advocacy.

Barrett Strong

Barrett Strong Jr. was a pioneering American singer and songwriter renowned for his 1959 hit “Money (That’s What I Want),” the first significant success for Motown Records. Born in West Point, Mississippi, Strong moved to Detroit as a child, where he began his music career and later became a key figure in the Motown sound. Partnering with producer Norman Whitfield, he co-wrote iconic songs such as “I Heard It Through the Grapevine,” “War,” and “Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone.” His work significantly shaped soul music. Strong was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2004.

After leaving Motown, he continued his career with Epic and Capitol Records and founded Blarritt Records in 1995 to support aspiring musicians. He passed away in San Diego, California, at age 81, leaving behind a legacy of influential music.

Musicians who died in February 2023

Burt Bacharach

Born on May 12, 1928, Burt Freeman Bacharach was a celebrated American composer and songwriter renowned for his influential work in 20th-century popular music. Known for his collaboration with lyricist Hal David, Bacharach crafted numerous hits, including “Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on My Head” and “(They Long to Be) Close to You.” His distinctive style, characterized by unusual chord progressions, syncopated rhythms, and innovative instrumentations, left a lasting impact on the music industry.

Over 1,000 artists recorded his songs, and he earned six Grammy Awards, three Academy Awards, and an Emmy Award. Bacharach’s contributions extended to the easy-listening genre and beyond, influencing movements like chamber pop. His personal life included marriages to Paula Stewart, Angie Dickinson, Carole Bayer Sager, and Jane Hansen, with whom he had three children. Bacharach passed away in Los Angeles at the age of 94.

Musicians who died in March 2023

Tony Coe

Anthony George Coe (29 November 1934 – 16 March 2023) was a distinguished English jazz musician known for his proficiency in clarinet, bass clarinet, flute, and various saxophones. Born in Canterbury, Kent, Coe began his musical journey as a self-taught tenor saxophonist and quickly became a professional at 17. His early career included stints with Joe Daniels and the Humphrey Lyttelton Band, where he gained recognition for his unique style.

Coe led his own groups and recorded notable albums, such as Tony’s Basement and Zeitgeist. He collaborated with prominent jazz figures, including Count Basie, Stan Getz, and Dizzy Gillespie. Coe’s diverse contributions spanned film soundtracks and classical music fusion, earning him accolades like the Danish Jazzpar Prize. He passed away in Canterbury at 88, leaving a legacy of innovation and artistry in jazz.

Tom Leadon

Tom Leadon was a notable American musician. He was. He was recognized as a founding member of Tom Petty’s original band, Mudcrutch. Leadon, the brother of Bernie Leadon from the Eagles, played a crucial role in Mudcrutch as a lead guitarist. His early music career began in Gainesville, Florida, with the band Epics, where he met Tom Petty. Following Mudcrutch’s formation, Leadon and Mike Campbell shared lead guitar duties.

After leaving Mudcrutch in 1972, Leadon moved to Los Angeles, joining Linda Ronstadt’s band and later the country-rock band Silver, which had a hit with “Wham-Bam” in 1976. He also contributed to the Eagles’ song “Hollywood Waltz.” In 2007, Leadon rejoined Mudcrutch when Petty revived the band. Leadon continued to perform and record with Mudcrutch until Petty died in 2017. Leadon passed away on March 22, 2023, at the age of 70.

Musicians who died in April 2023

Harry Belafonte

Harry Belafonte (April 25, 1927 – April 25, 2023) was a celebrated American singer, actor, and activist known for his rich music and civil rights contributions. He married Marguerite Byrd from 1948 to 1957, and they had two daughters, Adrienne and Shari. Adrienne later founded the Anir Foundation/Experience to support humanitarian efforts in southern Africa. Belafonte’s second marriage to Julie Robinson in 1957, a dancer and Jewish community member, produced two children, Gina and David. The couple divorced in 2004. His third marriage was to photographer Pamela Frank in 2008.

Throughout his life, Belafonte faced and fought against racial discrimination, including a notable incident in 1958 where he took action to promote diversity in housing. Despite health challenges later in life, Belafonte remained influential in the civil rights movement until his 96th birthday.

Musicians death in May 2023

Gordon Lightfoot

Gordon Lightfoot, born on November 17, 1938, was a Canadian singer-songwriter celebrated for his significant impact on folk, folk-rock, and country music. His music, including classics like “If You Could Read My Mind” and “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald,” gained international acclaim and defined the folk-pop sound of the 1960s and 1970s. Lightfoot’s career, which spanned nearly six decades, earned him a reputation as one of Canada’s most remarkable songwriters.

He was married three times, first to Brita Olaisson, with whom he had two children, and later to Cathy Smith, a relationship that inspired some of his songs. His third marriage to Elizabeth Moon produced two more children. Lightfoot married Kim Hasse in 2014. Gordon Lightfoot passed away on May 1, 2023, at 84. His passing was marked by tributes across Canada, including a tribute concert at Massey Hall in 2024.

Jon Povey

Born August 20, 1942, Jon Povey was an English drummer and keyboardist. He began his musical career with Bern Elliott and the Bluecaps, who later became The Fenmen and achieved a Top 20 hit with “Money (That’s What I Want)” in 1963. Following the departure of lead singer Bern Elliott, Povey continued with The Fenmen and later switched to keyboards upon joining Pretty Things in 1967. As the band’s first keyboardist, he contributed to their album Emotions and remained with the group through various tenures until 2007. Povey also released solo work. In his later years, he moved to Spain and was working on a solo album and an autobiography titled Dartford Boys. Jon Povey passed away on May 9, 2023, at the age of 80, after a battle with leukemia.

Chas Newby

Charles Newby, born June 18, 1941, was a British musician known for his brief stint as the bassist for the Beatles in December 1960. During this time, he filled in for Stuart Sutcliffe, who was in Hamburg, focusing on his art career. Newby, previously a member of Pete Best’s group The Black Jacks, played with the Beatles at four engagements in Liverpool and Liscard. He was offered the opportunity to join the Beatles for their second trip to West Germany but chose to return to his studies. Newby later pursued a career in teaching mathematics and was involved in music through charity groups like the Racketts and as a member of the Quarrymen. Charles Newby passed away on May 22, 2023, at the age of 81.

Musicians death in June 2023

George Winston

George Otis Winston III, known professionally as George Winston, was an influential American pianist renowned for his contemporary instrumental music. He gained fame with his 1980 album Autumn, then Winter into Spring (1982) and December, all of which achieved platinum status, with December reaching triple platinum. Winston released 16 solo albums, selling over 15 million records, and won a Grammy for Forest(1994) and several other nominations. His style blended “rural folk piano,” stride piano, and New Orleans R&B; he also played guitar and harmonica. Winston founded Dancing Cat Records to promote Hawaiian slack-key guitarists. Despite battling cancer, he continued his work until his death on June 4, 2023, in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, at age 74. Winston’s legacy endures through his distinctive music and contributions to the contemporary instrumental genre.

Teresa Taylor

Teresa Taylor, also known as Teresa T, was an American musician and actress celebrated for her role as a drummer in the experimental rock band Butthole Surfers. Born in Arlington, Texas, Taylor started drumming in high school bands and joined the Surfers in 1983. Her distinctive drumming can be heard on critical albums like Psychic… Powerless… Another Man’s Sacand Locust Abortion Technician.

After leaving the band in 1989, Taylor faced health challenges, including an aneurysm and strobe light-induced seizures. She made a notable appearance in Richard Linklater’s film Slacker as a character trying to sell a pap smear from Madonna. In her later years, Taylor continued to work on music and announced her diagnosis of end-stage lung disease in 2021. She passed away on June 18, 2023, at age 60, peacefully in her sleep.

Peter Brötzmann

Peter Brötzmann was a groundbreaking German jazz saxophonist and clarinetist who was central to the European free jazz movement. Born in Remscheid, he initially studied painting before pivoting to music after a transformative experience at a Sidney Bechet concert. Brötzmann’s self-taught skills on clarinet and saxophone led to his influential 1968 album Machine Gun, a landmark in free jazz known for its intense, innovative sound.

Throughout his career, he collaborated with key figures like Derek Bailey and Cecil Taylor and was a founding member of the Instant Composers Pool. Brötzmann’s work spanned various influences, including heavy metal and noise rock, and he continued to push musical boundaries until he died in 2023. His extensive discography and distinctive approach to jazz have left a lasting legacy in the genre.

Musicians died in July 2023

George Tickner

George Tyndall Tickner was a pioneering American rock musician renowned for his role as a founding member of Journey. Tickner’s contributions to the music industry were significant, as he played rhythm guitar and co-wrote several of the band’s early songs, helping to shape their distinctive sound. Before Journey, Tickner was involved with the San Francisco psychedelic rock band Frumious Bandersnatch and performed with Jerry Garcia and Merl Saunders in 1973.

After leaving Journey to attend Stanford Medical School, he continued his musical journey by co-founding The Hive studio and the band VTR. His innovative guitar work and songwriting cemented his impact on rock music. In 2005, Tickner was honored with Journey on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, recognizing his enduring legacy in rock music. He passed away on July 5, 2023, at the age of 76.

Randy Meisner

Randall Herman Meisner, known as Randy Meisner, was a pivotal figure in the American music scene, primarily known for his role as a founding member of the Eagles. Meisner was the bassist and backing vocalist for the band, contributing significantly to their distinctive sound with his high-harmony vocals. He co-wrote and sang lead on the iconic hit “Take It to the Limit,” showcasing his exceptional talent. Meisner’s influence extended beyond the Eagles, as he worked as a session musician and left a mark with his distinct musical style.

Despite personal struggles, including health issues and alcohol dependency, his contributions to the Eagles and the broader music industry remain highly regarded. His unique voice and instrumental prowess define Meisner’s legacy. He passed away on July 26, 2023, at 77, leaving a profound impact on rock music.

Musicians died in August 2023

Erkin Koray

Mustafa Erkin Koray was a pioneering Turkish singer and guitarist renowned for contributing to Anatolian rock. Active in the Turkish rock scene since the late 1950s, Koray debuted with the 1967 single “Anma Arkadaş.” In the early 1970s, he formed the band Ter with former Bunalım members, releasing the single “Hor Görme Garibi” before disbanding. His influential 1973 solo album Erkin Koray marked a significant moment in Turkish rock.

Koray, alongside Orhan Gencebay, co-invented the electro baglama, an electric version of a traditional Turkish lute. He continued to innovate in Turkish music until he died in Toronto on August 7, 2023, at 82, due to lung disease. His legacy endures through his groundbreaking fusion of traditional Turkish sounds with rock music.

Robbie Robertson

Jaime Royal “Robbie” Robertson (July 5, 1943 – August 9, 2023) was a celebrated Canadian musician of Indigenous ancestry. He is best known as the lead guitarist and songwriter for The Band. His work shaped the Americana music genre with iconic songs like “The Weight” and “The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down.” Robertson collaborated closely with director Martin Scorsese on numerous film soundtracks, including The Last Waltz and Killers of the Flower Moon.

He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, and the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame. Robertson passed away at 80 after a battle with prostate cancer. His death led to a legal dispute in May 2024 when his three adult children sued his wife, Janet Zuccarini, alleging elder abuse.

Walter Aipolani

Walter Aipolani, or Bruddah Waltah, was an influential American singer, songwriter, and guitarist instrumental in popularizing Hawaiian reggae, also known as Jawaiian music, during the 1980s and 1990s. Born in Keaukaha, near Hilo, Hawaii, Aipolani moved to Oahu as a child and began his music career in Waikiki. He was renowned for blending traditional Hawaiian music with reggae, inspired by Bob Marley, to create a unique sound that resonated with Native Hawaiians.

His song “Sweet Lady of Waiāhole” became a local hit, and his first album, Hawaiian Reggae, was a major success. Although he disliked the term “Jawaiian,” Aipolani’s music became synonymous with the genre. He passed away on August 17, 2023, at the age of 68, leaving a lasting legacy in Hawaiian music.

Jack Sonni

Jack Sonni (December 9, 1954 – August 30, 2023) was an American musician best known as “the other guitarist” in Dire Straits during their Brothers in Arms era. Born in Indiana, Pennsylvania, Sonni’s passion for guitar led him to New York City, where he played in local bands and met the Knopfler brothers. This connection brought him into Dire Straits, where he contributed to their iconic 1985 album Brothers in Arms and performed at Live Aid.

After stepping away from music to focus on his family, Sonni became a successful marketing executive, helping to launch the POD at Line 6. Later, he returned to music, playing with The Leisure Class and the Dire Straits Legacy project. Jack Sonni passed away on August 30, 2023, at 68, in Taylor, Mississippi, where he had become a beloved figure in the local music scene.

Musicians died in September 2023

Larry Chance

Larry Chance, born Lawrence Figueiredo on 19 October 1940 in The Bronx, New York, was pivotal in the American doo-wop scene. He gained fame as the lead singer of Larry Chance and the Earls, a group he originally formed as The High Hatters before renaming them. Their 1962 hit “Remember Then” became an iconic track of the era, followed by other memorable songs like “Never” and “I Believe.” These tracks defined the East Coast doo-wop sound and ensured the group’s lasting influence in the genre.

Chance’s powerful voice and stage presence kept the group in demand, particularly during the revival of the oldies in the 1970s and 1980s. Despite a battle with cancer in 2000, which he openly shared with fans, Chance continued to perform with passion. Sadly, after a long fight with lung cancer, he passed away on 5 September 2023 in Orlando, Florida, at the age of 82.

Charles Gayle

Charles Gayle, born on 28 February 1939 in Buffalo, New York, was an influential figure in free jazz, known for his uncompromising style and spiritual music. Despite his immense talent, Gayle spent nearly 20 years as a homeless musician in New York City, playing saxophone on the streets and subway platforms. His decision to embrace homelessness allowed him to dedicate his life to music, creating a unique and raw sound that resonated deeply with listeners.

In 1988, Gayle’s talent was recognized when he recorded a trio of albums in one week, catapulting him to fame in the free jazz scene. Over the years, he released numerous albums and became known for his intense live performances, often incorporating spoken-word segments about his religious and political beliefs.

Gayle passed away on 7 September 2023 in Brooklyn, New York, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most original voices in jazz.

Musicians who died in October 2023

Julian Bahula

Julian Bahula, born on 13 March 1938 in Eersterust, Pretoria, South Africa, was a renowned drummer, composer, and bandleader who significantly impacted both African and global music. After gaining prominence with the band Malombo in South Africa, Bahula migrated to Britain in 1973, where he continued to champion the music of his homeland. He formed the ensemble Jabula and later Jabula Spear, blending African rhythms with jazz and establishing a unique sound.

Bahula was instrumental in promoting African music in the UK, notably organizing a series of concerts at London’s 100 Club featuring icons like Fela Kuti and Hugh Masekela. His efforts also had a strong political dimension; in 1983, he helped organize the African Sounds concert at Alexandra Palace, highlighting the plight of Nelson Mandela and other political prisoners.

Julian Bahula passed away on 1 October 2023 at age 85, leaving behind a lasting legacy in music and activism.

Angelo Bruschini

Angelo Bruschini (1960/1961 – 23 October 2023) was a renowned English guitarist from Bristol. He is known for his pivotal role in the rise of the trip-hop genre during the 1990s and 2000s. A versatile musician, Bruschini was a key member of several bands, including The Numbers, Rimshots, and The Blue Aeroplanes.

His work with Massive Attack, particularly on their iconic albums Mezzanine (1998) and 100th Window(2003), solidified his reputation as a major influence in the music scene. His guitar contributions helped shape the distinctive, moody sound that defined the era’s trip-hop movement. Beyond Massive Attack, he produced Strangelove’s 1997 self-titled album and played on various other projects, including Jane Taylor’s single “Blowing This Candle Out” in 2003.

Bruschini passed away on 23 October 2023 at the age of 62 after a battle with lung cancer, leaving behind a lasting impact on the music world.

Musicians we lost in November 2023

Geordie Walker

Kevin Walker, known professionally as Geordie Walker, was born on 18 December 1958. He was an English guitarist famed for his work with the post-punk band Killing Joke. Born in Chester-le-Street, County Durham, he joined Killing Joke in 1979, shaping their dark, atmospheric sound. Walker’s unique guitar style, marked by heavy rhythms and unconventional tunings, earned him widespread acclaim. He played a 1952 Gibson ES-295, creating a powerful, resonant tone that became a hallmark of the band’s music.

Beyond Killing Joke, he contributed to projects like Murder, Inc. and The Damage Manual. In his later years, he resided in Prague. Walker continued to influence the music scene until his death on 26 November 2023, two days after suffering a stroke. He was 64.

Shane MacGowan

Shane MacGowan was The Pogues’s lead singer and songwriter, known for their blend of punk and traditional Irish music. His distinctive voice and storytelling through songs like “Fairytale of New York” left a lasting impact. MacGowan’s death on 30 November 2023 was a significant loss to the world of Celtic punk.

Musicians died in December 2023

Denny Laine

Denny Laine was born on 29 October 1944 in Tyseley, Birmingham, England. He was a pivotal figure in rock music, known for his roles in The Moody Blues and Wings. Starting with The Moody Blues in the 1960s, Laine’s standout moment was his performance on “Go Now.” His career significantly turned in 1971 when he joined Paul McCartney’s Wings, contributing to hits like “Mull of Kintyre” with his multi-instrumental talents. Following Wings’ disbandment, Laine continued his music career with solo albums like Anyone Can Fly and The Blue Musician and remained active in tribute performances and collaborations.

Despite health setbacks, including a battle with COVID-19 and subsequent lung issues, Laine remained influential until his death on 5 December 2023, at 79. His enduring impact on rock music is celebrated through his innovative contributions and memorable performances.

Amp Fiddler

Amp Fiddler, born Joseph Anthony Fiddler on 16 May 1958 in Detroit, Michigan, was an influential American singer, songwriter, keyboardist, and record producer. Renowned for his work in funk, soul, and R&B, Fiddler gained prominence as a key member of the band Enchantment and collaborator with George Clinton’s Parliament and Funkadelic from 1985 to 1996. He was also known for his work with artists like Prince, Jamiroquai, and Maxwell.

Fiddler’s career spanned decades, with notable solo releases including his debut album, Waltz of a Ghetto Fly(2004), and his final album, Basementality (2021). He was celebrated for his contributions to music and was instrumental in introducing hip-hop producer J Dilla to the Akai MPC sampling drum machine.

Fiddler passed away on 18 December 2023, at the age of 65, in Detroit, Michigan, after a battle with cancer.

Final Verdict

As we reflect on the musicians who passed away in 2023, and singers who died in 2023 in this post, we are reminded of music’s profound impact on our lives. Through their unique sounds and heartfelt lyrics, these artists provided solace in sorrow and a soundtrack to our happiest moments. Their contributions spanned genres and styles, leaving an indelible mark on the fabric of our musical landscape.

From the timeless melodies of Harry Belafonte to the raw energy of Shane MacGowan’s punk anthems, each artist brought their own essence to the world of music. Their departure creates a void, yet their legacy endures in the songs they left behind. As fans, we honor their memory by revisiting their work, celebrating their achievements, and sharing their music with new generations. Although the musicians who died in 2023 are no longer with us, their influence continues to resonate, reminding us of the power of music to connect, inspire, and heal. Their melodies live on, echoing in the hearts of those who cherish their art.