Perry Bamonte, the talented guitarist and keyboard player for the iconic British band The Cure, has passed away at the age of 65. The band confirmed his death on their official website, stating that Bamonte died “after a short illness at home,” expressing their sorrow in a statement that emphasized his warm and creative spirit.
The Cure acknowledged Bamonte’s significant contributions to their music. He first joined the band in 1984 as part of the road crew and became a full member in 1990 after the departure of keyboardist Roger O’Donnell. His musical talents were showcased on several acclaimed albums, including Wish (1992), Wild Mood Swings (1996), Bloodflowers (2000), Acoustic Hits (2001), and The Cure (2004). Over the span of 14 years, he performed in more than 400 shows, leaving an indelible mark on the band’s legacy.
A Lasting Impact on Music and Fans
Bamonte rejoined The Cure in 2022 and contributed to another 90 shows, which some fans hailed as among the best in the band’s history. His final performance occurred during The Show Of A Lost World concert in London on November 1, 2024. Reflecting on his impact, The Cure stated, “Looking after the band from 1984 through 1989, he became a full member… he will be very greatly missed.”
Throughout his career, Bamonte lent his guitar skills to some of The Cure’s most beloved tracks, including “Friday I’m In Love,” “High,” and “A Letter To Elise.” He also appeared on the band’s live albums, Paris and Show, both released in 1993. His former bandmate, drummer Lol Tolhurst, shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, stating, “So sad to hear about Perry Bamonte passing. Cindy and I send our condolences to all that knew him. Farewell Teddy.”
Bamonte’s musical journey extended beyond The Cure. He was the bass player for the supergroup Love Amongst Ruin, which released two studio albums—its self-titled debut in 2010 and Lose Your Way in 2015. This group featured former Placebo drummer Steve Hewitt and Julian Cope collaborator Donald Ross Skinner.
A Multifaceted Artist and Enthusiast
In addition to his musical pursuits, Bamonte had a passion for fly fishing and built a successful career as an illustrator. He contributed to the magazine Fly Culture, showcasing his artistic talents beyond the music scene.
Formed in 1976 by lead singer Robert Smith and Tolhurst, The Cure has undergone various lineup changes throughout its history. The band is celebrated for its profound influence on goth, post-punk, and indie music. In 2019, they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, cementing their status as one of the most important bands in modern music history.
As the music world mourns the loss of Perry Bamonte, tributes continue to pour in from fans and fellow artists alike, honoring a musician whose contributions will not be forgotten.
