Rick Davies dead at 81: Supertramp founding member and 'Give a Little Bit' songwriter dies

Rick Davies, founding member and primary songwriter of the progressive rock band Supertramp, died Friday, September 5, at his Long Island home following a prolonged battle with cancer. He was 81 years old.

The band announced Davies' death in a public statement, offering condolences to his widow, Sue Davies, whom he married in 1977.

Also read: Celebrity deaths this week: From Malcolm-Jamal Warner to Ozzy Osbourne to Hulk Hogan - here are the stars

Formation of Supertramp and classic lineup

Davies founded Supertramp in 1970 alongside fellow singer and songwriting partner Roger Hodgson. The duo assembled the band's classic lineup from 1973 to 1983, recruiting Dougie Thomson, Bob Siebenberg, and John Helliwell.

During this decade-long period, Supertramp achieved commercial success with multiple hit songs that defined their sound and established Davies as a prominent songwriter in progressive rock.

Hit songs and songwriting legacy

Davies shared writing credits on several of Supertramp's most recognizable tracks, including "Give a Little Bit" and "Breakfast in America." The band also produced other notable songs during this era, such as "The Logical Song" and "Take the Long Way Home."

These compositions helped establish Supertramp as a significant force in 1970s and early 1980s popular music, with Davies' keyboard skills and songwriting contributing substantially to the band's distinctive sound.

Band evolution and health challenges

Roger Hodgson departed Supertramp in 1982 following the release of "Famous Last Words" to pursue a solo career. Davies continued leading the remaining members until 1988, when the original formation disbanded.

Also read: You’ve seen them in Seinfeld, Young Sheldon, and Deadwood, but did you know these underrated stars died in

The band reunited periodically over subsequent decades. In 2015, Supertramp planned a 25-date European tour, but was forced to cancel due to Davies' health issues, including a diagnosis of plasma cell cancer.

Grammy recognition and commercial success

Supertramp received four Grammy nominations during their career, including Album of the Year recognition for "Breakfast in America" in 1980. The band achieved particular commercial success in Canada, where two albums reached diamond certification status.

Davies' contributions to Supertramp's catalog helped the band sell millions of records worldwide and maintain a lasting influence on progressive rock and pop music.

Personal life and surviving family

Rick Davies married Sue Davies in 1977, and the couple remained together until his death on Friday. The band's statement emphasized their condolences to Sue Davies during this period.

Also read: Brandon Blackstock dead at 48: Kelly Clarkson’s ex-husband’s sudden demise shocks fans — what caused his u

Davies' death marks the end of an era for Supertramp fans and represents a significant loss for the progressive rock community that appreciated his musical contributions spanning more than four decades.