John Gosling, former keyboardist for the Kinks, has died aged 75.
Gosling’s death was confirmed by the band, with founding members Ray and Dave Davies paying tribute to him, along with drummer Avory.
Gosling joined the band in 1970.
“deeply saddened”
Confirming his death, The Kinks shared this via X, formerly known as Twitter.
“We are deeply saddened by the news of the passing of John Gosling. We are sending our condolences to John’s wife and family”, the band wrote.
We are deeply saddened by the news of the passing of John Gosling. We are sending our condolences to John's wife and family. (1/4) pic.twitter.com/eFl5n6MQfB
— The Kinks (@TheKinks) August 4, 2023
Reacting to Gosling’s death, founding member Dave Davies said that he “dismayed and deeply upset”.
“I’m dismayed deeply upset by John Gosling’s passing”, he wrote.
“He has been a friend and important contributor to the Kinks music during his time with us”, he added. “Deepest sympathies to his wife and family”.
“I will hold deep affection and love for him in my heart always. Great musician and a great man”.
Lead vocalist Ray Davies also paid a moving tribute to John Gosling.
“Condolences to his wife Theresa and family. Rest in Peace dearest John”, he said.
Drummer Avory also wrote, “Today we lost a dear friend and colleague, he was a great musician and had a fantastic sense of humour… which made him popular member of the band, he leaves us with some happy memories. God Bless him….”.
After leaving the band, John Gosling was replaced by Gordon Edwards on keyboards, with Ian Gibbons joining the band in 1979.
In 1994, Gosling formed a band The Kast Off Kinks, which included former Kinks band members Jim Rodford, Dave Clarke, John Dalton, and Avory, a band he remained with until his retirement in 2008.
Last year, Dave Davies spoke about a possible Kinks reunion. More on that here.
Earlier this week, the ashes of the late Motorhead Lemmy were scattered at Germany’s Wacken Open Festival. More here.
