Remembering Rick Davies: Celebrated Supertramp Co-Founder and Singer Passes Away

Rick Davies, the talented British musician and co-founder of Supertramp, passed away on September 6 at the age of 81. He had been battling multiple myeloma for over a decade.

Supertramp announced his death on social media, highlighting Davies’ soulful vocals and unique piano style on the Wurlitzer, which were essential to the band’s sound.

Davies was born in Swindon, England, in 1944. From a young age, he was drawn to music after hearing Gene Krupa’s “Drummin’ Man.” He initially played jazz and blues before seeking bandmates in 1969 through an ad in Melody Maker. This led him to Roger Hodgson, a teenager who loved the Beatles. Their partnership combined Davies’ working-class grit with Hodgson’s dreamy ideals, a mix that created magic in their music.

Supertramp’s big break came in 1977 with their album Even in the Quietest Moments, which climbed to No. 16 on the Billboard 200 chart. But it was their 1979 album Breakfast in America that really made waves, offering a playful take on American culture. Notable singles like “Goodbye Stranger” showcased the contrast between Davies’ deep baritone and Hodgson’s bright falsetto.

After releasing …Famous Last Words… in 1982, Hodgson left the band. Davies continued to lead different versions of Supertramp until their last performance in Madrid in 2012. Even after his cancer diagnosis, he stayed involved in music, playing locally with a group called Ricky and the Rockets.

Supertramp’s impact on music is undeniable. According to a 2022 survey, over 60% of listeners aged 30-45 consider the band’s hits timeless classics, demonstrating their lasting appeal across generations. Davies’ contribution to the band’s legacy will be cherished by fans old and new.

For more about Rick Davies and Supertramp, check out this detailed obituary from NPR.

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