The Cure’s guitarist and keyboardist Perry Bamonte has passed away at the age of 65 after a short illness. The iconic band confirmed the devastating news in a statement shared on its official website on Friday, December 26, marking a somber moment for fans around the world during the holiday season.
Remembering a Cherished Bandmate
In their emotional message, The Cure described the loss as deeply personal. “It is with enormous sadness that we confirm the death of our great friend and bandmate Perry Bamonte,” the band wrote, explaining that he passed away peacefully at home after a brief illness. They remembered him as “quiet, intense, intuitive, constant and hugely creative,” adding that his warmth and spirit made him an essential part of The Cure’s long and influential story.
His Journey With The Cure
Perry Bamonte first became part of The Cure’s world in 1984 as a roadie before officially joining the band full-time in 1990. Working alongside frontman Robert Smith, bassist Simon Gallup, guitarist Reeves Gabrels, and drummer Jason Cooper, Bamonte quickly became a creative force within the group.
He showcased his versatility on guitar, six-string bass, and keyboards across several landmark releases. These included the Grammy-nominated Wish (1992), which peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard 200 and featured the timeless hit “Friday I’m in Love,” as well as Wild Mood Swings (1996), Bloodflowers (2000), Acoustic Hits (2001), and the band’s self-titled 2004 album.
A Lasting Legacy and Final Return
Born in London on September 3, 1960, Bamonte spent more than 14 years with The Cure, performing over 400 shows before stepping away in 2005. His contributions were formally recognized in 2019 when he was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame alongside the band, with Trent Reznor delivering the induction speech.
In a powerful full-circle moment, Bamonte rejoined The Cure in 2022, taking part in another 90 performances. According to the band, these shows ranked among the finest of their career, culminating in The Show of a Lost World concert in London on November 1, 2024.
An Irreplaceable Presence
Closing their tribute, The Cure expressed heartfelt condolences to Bamonte’s family and loved ones, emphasizing how profoundly he will be missed. His artistry, dedication, and gentle presence helped shape decades of music that continues to influence artists across generations.
