Photo: Wikimedia Commons

Dave Greenfield, keyboard player of The Stranglers, has died after contracting COVID-19. He was aged 71 and passed away on Sunday (May 3).

The Stranglers’ official website said the following of Greenfield's death:

"We are deeply and profoundly saddened to announce the untimely passing of keyboard legend Dave Greenfield on the evening of 3rd May 2020. Following a stay in hospital for heart problems, Dave tested positive for the Covid-19 virus last Sunday but he sadly lost his battle last night. Dave had been an ever present in the band since joining in late 1975 and his keyboard wizardry was world-renowned over his 45 year career in The Stranglers. Dave was a lovable, friendly and eccentric character who always had time to chat."

Bass player Jean-Jacques Burnel said on the site: “On the evening of Sunday 3 May, my great friend and longstanding colleague of 45 years, the musical genius that was Dave Greenfield, passed away as one of the victims of the Great Pandemic of 2020. All of us in the worldwide Stranglers’ family grieve and send our sincerest condolences to [his wife] Pam.”

The band, formed in Guildford in 1974, were due to embark on a farewell tour this year which was postponed due to the coronavirus.

“We have just lost a dear friend and music genius, and so has the whole world. Dave was a complete natural in music. Together, we toured the globe endlessly and it was clear he was adored by millions. A huge talent, a great loss, he is dearly missed," said drummer Jet Black, also on the band's website.

Vocalist and guitarist Baz Wayne said: "We lost a true innovator, musical legend, and one of my dearest friends today. The word genius is bandied around far too easily in this day and age, but Dave Greenfield certainly was one. We stood together on the same side of the stage for 20 years, laughed, joked and shared our lives in the way that only band mates can. I’ll miss him forever. Our thoughts and hearts are with his wife Pam, and to the millions of fans who worshipped at his altar, he’ll never be equalled.”

The band’s manager, Sil Willcox, said: “We are all in shock. Dave was a kind, generous soul who had time for anyone and everyone and it has been my privilege to have known him as both a close friend and his manager for over 40 years. Our thoughts are with his wife, Pam, at this sad time.”

"I am very sorry to hear of the passing of Dave Greenfield," said original Stranglers guitarist Hugh Cornwell on Twitter. "He was the difference between The Stranglers and every other punk band. His musical skill and gentle nature gave an interesting twist to the band. He should be remembered as the man who gave the world the music of 'Golden Brown'."