Gilson Lavis, Ex-Squeeze Drummer, Passes Away at 74
Gilson Lavis, the former drummer of the iconic English rock band Squeeze, has passed away at the age of 74. His death was reported by Jools Holland, a key member of Squeeze, through social media. The announcement occurred on Thursday, with Holland sharing his heartfelt condolences.
Tributes and Condolences
Holland expressed his sorrow, mentioning Lavis’s significant influence on his life and career. He highlighted Lavis as a dear friend and a talented drummer, stating: “I’m very sad to report that Gilson Lavis… passed away at his home in Lincolnshire last night.” Holland extended sympathy to Lavis’s family, including his wife Nikki and their son.
Musicians and fans quickly took to social media to share their condolences. Scottish singer KT Tunstall remarked on the tragic news, celebrating Lavis’s brilliance and their shared experiences on stage. Jazz singer Curtis Stigers also reflected on his admiration for Lavis’s musical contributions, emphasizing his unique style and the lasting impact of his work.
Early Life and Career
Born on June 27, 1951, in Bedford, England, Lavis displayed musical talent from an early age. He honed his skills by touring with legendary artists, including Chuck Berry, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Dolly Parton, before joining Squeeze in 1976.
Achievements with Squeeze
During his tenure with Squeeze, Lavis recorded nine studio albums. He contributed to several of their most popular songs, including:
- “Cool for Cats”
- “Up the Junction”
- “Tempted”
Later Pursuits
In addition to drumming, Lavis developed a passion for art, creating portraits of music legends like Paul McCartney and Eric Clapton. He described his artwork as a painted biography of his musical journey, emphasizing the joy it brought him.
Later in his career, Lavis performed with Jools Holland’s Rhythm and Blues Orchestra before announcing his retirement at the end of 2024. His contributions to the music industry and his artistic endeavors will be remembered fondly by fans and fellow musicians alike.
