ELO Keyboardist Richard Tandy Dead at 76

Electric Light Orchestra keyboardist Richard Tandy has died at the age of 76.

The rock band’s founder Jeffrey Lynne OBE announced the news on X (formerly known as Twitter) on Wednesday, May 1.

“It is with great sadness that I share the news of the passing of my long-time collaborator and dear friend Richard Tandy,” the statement read. “He was a remarkable musician & friend and I’ll cherish the lifetime of memories we had together.”

Lynne added, “Sending all my love to Sheila & the Tandy family. Jeff Lynne.” No date or cause of death was given.

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The post also featured snaps of the two musicians together, as well as a video of Tandy playing the piano while Lynne sang and played the guitar.

“So sorry to hear of the passing of Richard Tandy. I loved this stripped down version of ‘Telephone Line’ that you did with him,” one person commented, while a second wrote, “Terrible loss Condolences to you and the Tandy family.....sending love, hugs and prayers of comfort for all of you We will cherish our memories of him as well.”

Meanwhile, another added, “So sorry to hear this. My condolences to you for losing a friend and to his family. Richard was an incredible talent and a huge part of ELO. His presence in ELO will be missed.”

The BBC reported that Tandy first joined the band after the group released their debut album in 1972. While he initially played the bass guitar, he became the group’s keyboardist after the exit of Roy Wood.

Tandy was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2017 thanks to the many years of being Electric Light Orchestra’s keyboardist.

The band also marked its 50th anniversary in 2021 after forming in Birmingham, England in 1970.