Jon Bon Jovi Pays Tribute to Scorpions Bassist Francis Buchholz After His Death at 71

Family Shares the News

Francis Buchholz, longtime bassist for the German hard rock band Scorpions, has died at age 71. His family shared the news online, saying he passed away after what they described as a private fight with cancer. The loss marks the passing of a musician linked to one of Europe’s most successful rock groups.

In a message signed by his wife Hella and children Sebastian, Louisa, and Marietta, the family wrote: “It is with overwhelming sadness and heavy hearts we share the news that our beloved Francis passed away yesterday after a private battle with cancer. He departed this world peacefully, surrounded by love.

“Our hearts are shattered. Throughout his fight with cancer, we stayed by his side, facing every challenge as a family – exactly the way he taught us.

“To his fans around the world – we want to thank you for your unwavering loyalty, your love, and the belief you placed in him throughout his incredible journey. You gave him the world, and he gave you his music in return. Though the strings have gone silent, his soul remains in every note he played and in every life he touched.”

Jon Bon Jovi’s Tribute

Jon Bon Jovi also paid tribute after the news spread. The American singer shared a photo of himself with Scorpions and others from earlier years, wearing bold stage outfits and hairstyles from the era. Alongside the image, he wrote: “I’ll never forget opening for the Scorpions. Thx for the memories. You’ll be missed.”

 

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Bon Jovi supported Scorpions during their Love at First Sting tour across the United States in 1984. The run began on April 20 in Reno and continued through the summer. One of the stops included a major show at Madison Square Garden on June 7, adding to the tour’s strong profile.

Band Statement and Career

Scorpions also released a statement through their official social media pages. The band said: “We have just received the very sad news that our longtime friend and bass player, Francis Buchholz, has passed away. His legacy with the band will live on forever, and we will always remember the many good times we have shared together. Our hearts go out to Hella, his family, and friends. R.I.P. Francis. Klaus, Rudolf, Matthias.”

Buchholz played on 12 albums during Scorpions’ peak years between 1973 and 1992. After leaving the group, he later performed with Michael Schenker’s Temple of Rock. He lived in Hanover with Hella, and together they raised their son Sebastian and twin daughters Louisa and Marietta.