Andy Gill, guitarist and founding member of Gang Of Four has died.
The surviving members of Gang Of Four confirmed the news on social media. Gill died after succumbing to a respiratory illness. Last year Gang Of Four cut their North American tour short after Gill developed a severe chest infection. Gill had recuperated from last year's infection but developed another illness recently and ultimately was unable to recover. Gill was 64 years old.
Gang Of Four was an important, influential and pioneering post-punk band. The band's debut album Entertainment! was issued in 1979 and remains one of post-punk's finest moments. The combination of Gill's fiery guitar intensity, punk grooves, and poignant lyrics that still resonate today made for a magical and seminal album.
Gill remained a member of Gang Of Four until his death and was the sole original member of the band after the departure of Jon King in 2011.
Besides his incredible work in Gang Of Four, Gill produced many albums for other artists including works for The Stranglers, Michael Hutchence, Killing Joke, The Jesus Lizard, and more.
R.I.P. to a legend.
Andy Gill. pic.twitter.com/DHNCz5lAe6— GANG OF FOUR (@gangof4official) February 1, 2020
"This is so hard for us to write, but our great friend and Supreme Leader has died today.
Andy's final tour in November was the only way he was ever really going to bow out; with a Stratocaster around his neck, screaming with feedback and deafening the front row.
His uncompromising artistic vision and commitment to the cause meant that he was still listening to mixes for the upcoming record, whilst planning the next tour from his hospital bed.
But to us, he was our friend - and we'll remember him for his kindness and generosity, his fearsome intelligence, bad jokes, mad stories and endless cups of Darjeeling tea. He just so happened to be a bit of a genius too.
One of the best to ever do it, his influence on guitar music and the creative process was inspiring for us, as well as everyone who worked alongside him and listened to his music. And his albums and production work speak for themselves. Go give 'em a spin for him...
Love you mate.
John, Thomas and Tobias
GANG OF FOUR"
