Former Uriah Heep and Lucifer’s Friend Official singer John Lawton Passed Away at 74

Rest In Peace

John Lawton, former singer of Uriah Heep and Lucifer’s Friend, has passed away at the age of 74. His official cause of death has not been disclosed. This tragic news has been confirmed by Uriah Heep whose members took to social media to pay tribute to their ex-bandmate.

“It is with deep regret that we share the devastating and tragic news of the sudden and totally unexpected passing of John Lawton on 29 June 2021,” they wrote. “Contrary to reports, there was no illness involved, which makes his passing incomprehensible. He went peacefully with his wife at his side.”

“John will be greatly missed,” they continued. “A private funeral service to celebrate John’s life will be held following his wishes, with only family and close friends attending. We would appreciate that the family’s privacy is respected during this difficult time.”

Lawton rose to prominence with cult rockers Lucifer’s Friend. After which, he struck gold as the lead singer of Uriah Heep in 1976 – the replacement of original lead singer David Byron. Lawton recorded three albums with them – Firefly, Innocent Victim, and Fallen Angel. After Uriah Heep, he had a series of gigs with other bands. In 2013, he briefly re-joined Uriah Heep for two weeks during their European Tour.