On This Day in 2024, Richard Tandy, Longtime Keyboardist for Electric Light Orchestra, Passed Away at 76​

Early Life and Joining ELO

Richard Tandy was born on March 26, 1948, in Birmingham, England. He began learning piano at the age of nine and later attended Moseley Grammar School, where he met future ELO drummer Bev Bevan. Tandy joined Electric Light Orchestra (ELO) in 1972, initially playing bass guitar before transitioning to keyboards after Roy Wood’s departure. His expertise with instruments like the Minimoog synthesizer, Wurlitzer electric piano, clavinet, Mellotron, and piano became central to ELO’s sound .​

Tandy’s keyboard work contributed significantly to ELO’s unique blend of rock and classical music. He was a core member alongside Jeff Lynne and Bev Bevan until the band’s split in 1986. Tandy’s contributions were integral to hits like “Mr. Blue Sky,” where he provided piano, synth, and the song’s iconic vocoder .​

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Drew Schlesinger (@drewschlesinger)

Collaborations and Later Years

After ELO disbanded, Tandy continued to collaborate with Jeff Lynne on various projects, including the Electric Dreams soundtrack and Lynne’s solo album “Armchair Theatre.” In 1985, Tandy formed the Tandy Morgan Band, releasing the concept album “Earthrise” .​

Tandy rejoined Lynne in 2012 for a live set of ELO’s greatest hits, recorded at Lynne’s Bungalow Palace home studio. He also participated in ELO’s 2014 revival as Jeff Lynne’s ELO, performing at London’s Hyde Park. Tandy was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with ELO in 2017 .​

Passing and Tributes

Richard Tandy passed away on May 1, 2024, at the age of 76. Jeff Lynne announced the news on social media, stating: “It is with great sadness that I share the news of the passing of my long-time collaborator and dear friend Richard Tandy. He was a remarkable musician & friend and … . Sending all my love to Sheila & … family” .​

Bev Bevan, ELO’s drummer from 1970 to 1986, remembered Tandy as “a really dedicated musician” and “a lovely, lovely guy.” He noted that Tandy was not a showman but played a key role in creating ELO’s music, often working closely with Lynne in the studio .​

Legacy

Richard Tandy’s keyboard work helped define ELO’s sound, contributing to the band’s success with over 50 million records sold worldwide. His musicianship and collaborations with Jeff Lynne left a lasting impact on the music industry. Tandy’s passing marked the end of an era for ELO, with the band announcing their final live performance scheduled for July 13, 2025, at BST Hyde Park in London .​