Rick Davies, the soulful vocalist and co-founder of progressive rock band Supertramp, died on September 6, 2025, at his home in East Hampton, New York. He was 81 years old. The musician’s death came after a decade-long battle with multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer that had previously forced the cancellation of Supertramp’s 2015 tour.
Born on July 22, 1944, in Swindon, England, Davies established himself as a cornerstone of rock music through his distinctive baritone vocals and jazz-tinged keyboard style. As Supertramp’s sole constant member since its 1969 formation, Davies shared songwriting and vocal duties with Roger Hodgson until the latter’s departure in 1983. His raspy, soulful voice became synonymous with hits like “Bloody Well Right,” “Goodbye Stranger,” and “Rudy.”
Davies’ musical legacy centers on his rhythmic piano playing, particularly on the Wurlitzer electric piano, which created what fans called the “heartbeat” of Supertramp’s sound. This unique approach, blending jazz, blues, and rock elements with catchy hooks and meticulous arrangements, helped the band achieve its greatest commercial success with 1979’s “Breakfast in America,” which topped U.S. and Canadian charts, won two Grammy Awards, and sold over 18 million copies worldwide. The band’s two-frontman outfit created a distinctive sound that helped define the classic rock era. Beyond performing, Davies diversified his income through sync deals that placed Supertramp’s iconic songs in numerous films and television commercials. The band made their last concert appearance in Madrid in 2012, marking the end of an era for fans worldwide.
After Supertramp’s initial disbandment in 1988, Davies revived the group in 1996 and continued performing until 2012. In his later years, as his health declined, he maintained musical connections in his community by performing with a local band called Ricky and the Rockets. His extensive catalog continues to thrive on modern streaming platforms where new generations discover Supertramp’s timeless compositions.
Davies is survived by his wife Sue, Supertramp’s manager since 1984, with whom he shared more than five decades. Through Rick Davies Productions, he maintained control of Supertramp’s musical catalog and intellectual property, ensuring the band’s legacy remained protected.
His sharp, cynical lyrics and progressive compositions continue to be staples on classic rock radio and streaming platforms worldwide, cementing his position as a defining voice in rock music history.
