The Cure Guitarist and Keyboardist Dies at 65
Perry Bamonte, a celebrated guitarist and keyboardist of The Cure, has passed away at the age of 65. His death occurred after a brief illness during the Christmas period at his home. The Cure confirmed this sad news on their official website, remembering his impactful contributions to the band over the years.
The Life and Career of Perry Bamonte
Perry Bamonte’s journey with The Cure began when he joined their road crew in 1984, thanks to his brother Daryl, who was the band’s tour manager. He transitioned to become lead singer Robert Smith’s personal assistant and guitar technician. In 1990, after the departure of keyboardist Roger O’Donnell, Bamonte became a full-time member of the band.
Key Contributions to the Band
During his time with The Cure, Bamonte played a vital role. He contributed to iconic albums such as:
- 1992’s “Wish”
- 1996’s “Wild Mood Swings”
- 2000’s “Bloodflowers”
His performances on these albums included hits like “Friday, I’m in Love,” “A Letter to Elise,” and “High.” Over his 14-year tenure, he participated in more than 400 live performances.
Recent Activities and Legacy
After leaving The Cure in 2005, Bamonte joined the band Love Amongst Ruin and later returned to The Cure for their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2019. In 2022, he rejoined the band for the “Shows of a Lost World” tour, which began in Latvia and extended into December 2023. He played during a series of remarkable performances, including the highly-acclaimed concert “The Show of a Lost World” in London on November 1, 2024.
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1984 | Joined The Cure as part of the road crew |
| 1990 | Became a full-time member of The Cure |
| 2005 | Left The Cure after Smith’s reconfiguration |
| 2019 | Reunited with The Cure for Hall of Fame induction |
| 2022 | Rejoined for the “Shows of a Lost World” tour |
| 2024 | Performed at “The Show of a Lost World” concert |
The Cure expressed their heartfelt condolences to Bamonte’s family and friends. He will always be remembered as a warm-hearted and creative force within the band. His musical legacy will continue to resonate with fans around the world.