Badfinger guitarist Joey Molland passes away at age 77
Joey Molland, the legendary guitarist of the iconic band Badfinger, has passed away at the age of 77. His death was confirmed by Sam Sheffield-West, the funeral director at Washburn-McReavy Funeral Chapels in Edina, Minnesota, where Molland had lived for many years. Although further details about his passing were not immediately available, his legacy in the music industry is undeniable.
Badfinger, originally comprised of Molland, Pete Ham, Tom Evans, and Tom Gibbins, rose to fame in the early 1970s with hits like “No Matter What” and “Day After Day.” Signed to the Beatles’ Apple label, Badfinger quickly became associated with the Fab Four, working closely with Paul McCartney and George Harrison on their music. As Liverpool natives themselves, the members of Badfinger felt the weight of living in the shadow of the Beatles, but their talent and creativity shone through.
Their breakout hit, “Come and Get It,” was penned by McCartney, while the top 10 single “Day After Day” featured Harrison’s signature slide guitar. Other hits like “No Matter What” and “Without You” established Badfinger as a force in the music industry, earning them critical acclaim and comparisons to the Beatles themselves. Their association with the Beatles extended to live performances and collaborations, such as Harrison’s 1971 benefit concert for Bangladesh and session work on solo albums by Harrison and John Lennon.
Despite their early success, Badfinger’s career took a turn after leaving Apple due to financial disputes and changing industry landscapes. Tragedy struck the band with the untimely deaths of Pete Ham in 1975, Tom Evans in 1983, and Tom Gibbins in 2005. Molland remained devoted to his music, releasing solo albums and touring extensively until his health began to decline.
Reflecting on his work ethic and commitment to music, Molland once stated, “I was raised to go to work — to get up in the morning and go to work.” This dedication to his craft and passion for creating music is evident in his body of work with Badfinger and as a solo artist. While the band’s success was marred by personal and professional challenges, their impact on the music industry and their loyal fan base endures.
As we mourn the loss of Joey Molland, we celebrate his contributions to rock music and his enduring legacy as a member of Badfinger. His influence will live on through his music, inspiring future generations of musicians and fans alike.