Joey Molland, Guitarist for Badfinger, Dies Aged 77

Joey Molland, the legendary guitarist and last surviving member of the esteemed rock band Badfinger, has passed away at the age of 77. His death marks the end of an era for the band, which was known for its quintessential power pop sound and hits like “Come and Get It,” “No Matter What,” and “Day After Day.” Molland's death was confirmed through a heartfelt announcement on Badfinger's official Facebook page, detailing that he was surrounded by his family and longtime partner Mary.

Molland was a crucial figure in Badfinger's history, joining the group in 1969 when they were still known as the Iveys. Their rise to stardom was largely attributable to their association with The Beatles, with Paul McCartney writing and producing their first major single “Come and Get It.” Throughout the early 1970s, Badfinger produced a string of global hits, solidifying their place in rock history. Joey's contributions to the band were not just limited to performances; he also played a significant role in the songwriting and creative direction of the band.

Despite his successful tenure with Badfinger, Molland was no stranger to the darker side of rock and roll. The band's history is laden with tragic events, particularly the suicides of fellow band members Pete Ham and Tom Evans—both of whom succumbed to the pressures and misfortunes that befell the group. Despite these tragedies, Molland continued to champion the band's legacy by forming his own version of Badfinger, called Joey Molland's Badfinger, which kept the original spirit of the music alive through extensive tours and performances. Molland's relentless dedication to keeping the band's music in the public eye earned him the admiration of both old and new fans alike.

Outside of Badfinger, Molland continued to contribute to the music industry, lending his talents to notable projects with some of rock’s greatest icons. He played guitar on John Lennon's Imagine album as well as George Harrison's All Things Must Pass and The Concert for Bangladesh, linking him forever to the golden era of British rock. Molland's ability to seamlessly transition from performing with his band to collaborating with renowned solo artists is a testament to his versatility and talent as a musician.

In his personal life, Joey Molland faced numerous challenges, especially in his later years as he battled health issues. According to his family, his health declined through a combination of diabetes complications and other ailments which eventually led to his passing. Despite his personal struggles, he remained active professionally, touring well into his later years and maintaining a strong connection with his audience until the end. His life and work will continue to inspire, reminding us of the profound impact that a single musician can have on the world.