Perry Bamonte, longtime member of The Cure, dies at 65

Perry Bamonte, known for his long association with The Cure as a guitarist, keyboardist, and occasional bass player, has died at the age of 65 after a brief illness at his home. Bamonte joined The Cure in the mid-1980s as part of the band’s roadcrew and became a full member in 1990, contributing to landmark albums such as Wish, Wild Mood Swings, Bloodflowers, Acoustic Hits, and The Cure. He performed on more than 400 live shows over 14 years and rejoined the group in 2022, adding another 90 performances, including the notable Show Of A Lost World concert in London in November 2024. Outside The Cure, Bamonte also played with Love Amongst Ruin and pursued illustration, including work for Fly Culture magazine, and had a passion for fly fishing. The Cure issued a statement expressing their sadness and describing Bamonte as quiet, intuitive, and creative, and extending condolences to his family. His passing marks the loss of a significant figure in the band’s history, which formed in Crawley in 1976 and is regarded as influential in the indie/goth scene. Bamonte’s contributions to tracks like Friday I’m In Love, High, and A Letter To Elise are part of his enduring legacy with the band.