Rick Davies, the legendary co-founder and frontman of the rock band Supertramp, passed away peacefully at his home in Long Island on September 5, 2025, at the age of 81. He had been fighting multiple myeloma, a form of blood cancer that affects bone marrow, for over a decade. Born in Swindon, England, in 1944, Davies found his true calling in music early on, joining forces with Roger Hodgson in 1969 to create one of the most influential rock bands of their era.
Supertramp rose to fame throughout the 1970s, with hits like “The Logical Song,” “Goodbye Stranger,” and “Take the Long Way Home” becoming enduring classics. Their 1979 album Breakfast in America topped Billboard charts and earned Grammy nominations, marking the peak of their popularity. Despite creative differences leading to Hodgson’s departure in 1983, Davies kept the band active for years, although his health challenges eventually forced him to step back from touring.
Davies was known for his soulful voice, piano skills, and songwriting that shaped Supertramp’s distinctive sound. In a 2018 interview, he shared that he had mostly overcome his health struggles and was finding joy in music again, performing occasionally with his hometown band Ricky and the Rockets.
Supertramp’s official social media paid tribute to Davies, calling him the voice and heartbeat of their music. Fans worldwide remember his music as a timeless gift that continues to inspire generations.