Perry Bamonte, Longtime Guitarist and Keyboardist of The Cure, Dies at 65

Perry Bamonte, the British guitarist and keyboardist best known for his long association with The Cure, has died at the age of 65. The band announced his passing on their official website, stating he died at home over Christmas after a brief illness. In their tribute, they described him as a warm, creative, and vital member of their history. Bamonte first joined The Cure’s road crew in 1984 and became a full band member in 1990 following the departure of keyboardist Roger O’Donnell. During his 14 years with the group, he contributed to five studio albums and played guitar, keyboard, and bass on some of their most iconic songs, including ‘Friday I’m In Love,’ ‘High,’ and ‘A Letter to Elise.’ He also featured on the acclaimed live albums ‘Paris’ and ‘Show’ in 1993, performing in more than 400 concerts worldwide. After leaving The Cure, Bamonte joined the supergroup Love Amongst Ruin as a bass player before rejoining The Cure in 2022 and remaining until 2024. In addition to his musical career, he was an avid fly fisher and illustrator, contributing artwork to Fly Culture magazine. His former bandmate Lol Tolhurst expressed deep sadness over his death, calling him ‘Teddy’ in a heartfelt social media tribute. Bamonte was also present when The Cure was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2019, marking his enduring role in the band’s legacy.