Perry Bamonte, The Cure‘s Guitarist and Keyboardist, Dies at 65
Perry Bamonte, a vital creative force behind the iconic band The Cure, has passed away after a short illness. The news, announced over the Christmas break, marks a meaningful loss for the music world and leaves fans mourning the loss of a beloved musician.
Bamonte was 65 years old.He was remembered by his bandmates as “quiet, intense, intuitive, constant and hugely creative,” and a warm-hearted presence within the group. His contributions spanned decades, shaping the sound of one of alternative rock’s most influential acts.
From Roadie to Rock Hall of Famer
Initially joining The Cure as a roadie in 1984, Bamonte quickly proved his musical talent. He officially became a full-time member in 1990, adding his skills on guitar, six-string bass, and keyboards to the band’s already distinctive sound.
His instrumental work is featured on several critically acclaimed albums, including:
* Wish (1992) – A Grammy-nominated album that peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard 200 and featured the hit single “Friday I’m in Love.”
* Wild Mood Swings (1996) – Reaching No. 12 on the charts, this album showcased the band’s experimental side.
* Bloodflowers (2000) – A return to a darker, more atmospheric sound.
* Acoustic Hits (2001) – Stripped-down versions of The Cure’s most beloved songs.
* The Cure (2004) - A self-titled album that continued the band’s evolution.
You might recall these albums as cornerstones of 90s and 2000s alternative music.
A Legacy of Influence and Return
bamonte’s journey with The Cure wasn’t continuous. He departed in 2005 after 14 years and over 400 shows. Though, his impact remained undeniable. In 2019, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame alongside his bandmates, with Trent reznor of Nine Inch Nails delivering a moving tribute.
The Cure’s influence is far-reaching, inspiring generations of musicians.Artists like Deftones, My Chemical Romance, Phoebe Bridgers, and oasis have all cited the band as a major influence. Their debut album, Three Imaginary boys (1979), continues to resonate with listeners today.
Remarkably, Bamonte rejoined The Cure in 2022. He participated in another 90 shows,many considered among the band’s best performances,culminating in the “Show of a Lost World” concert in London on November 1st,2024.
A Profound Loss
The band’s statement concluded with heartfelt condolences to Bamonte’s family. They acknowledged that he will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
As a fan, you can celebrate his life and musical contributions by revisiting The Cure’s discography and remembering the unique talent he brought to the stage. His legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire musicians and fans for years to come.
