Singer and Keyboardist Gary Wright Passed Away At 80
via Smurfstools Oldies Music Time Machine/ Youtube
According to reports, Gary Wright, a singer and keyboardist best remembered for his mid-’70s successes “Dream Weaver” and “Love is Alive,” passed away this morning at the age of 80.
The revelation was revealed to TMZ by Wright’s son Justin, who revealed that his father has recently been battling Parkinson’s disease and Lewy body dementia.
Wright, who was born in Creeskill, New Jersey, on April 26, 1943, originally gained notoriety as a member of the British hard rock group Spooky Tooth. He received an invitation to take part in George Harrison’s All Things Must Pass album recording session in 1970. In his 2014 book Dream Weaver, Wright relates how nervousness almost caused the procedure to fail.
How Gary Wright and George Harrison Became Lifelong Friends
Gary Wright’s career was shaped by an unexpected encounter. Back in the day, in the studio, producer Phil Spector called out a young Wright for piano mistakes. It was a tough moment, but when Wright admitted his struggles, George Harrison, of Beatles fame, offered a kind hand, saying, “Take all the time you need; we’re in no rush.” That moment sparked a lifelong friendship.
After parting ways with Spooky Tooth, Wright went solo, achieving superstar status with his 1975 album The Dream Weaver. What made it stand out was its heavy use of keyboards and synthesizers, a departure from the guitar-driven music of the time.
Reflecting on the album’s unexpected success, Wright remarked in a 2010 interview:
“I didn’t foresee its popularity when I was creating it. The decision to exclusively use keyboards, drums, and vocals, without incorporating any guitars, was a serendipitous one.”
He explained:
“Having just departed from Spooky Tooth, I had access to a range of keyboard instruments and a drum machine, so I harnessed the available technology to craft the songs.”
Wright’s musical journey has left an indelible mark on the world of music, and his legacy will be remembered by generations to come. As we bid farewell to this talented artist, we reflect on the enduring impact of his music and the cherished memories he leaves behind.
