Alan Lancaster, founding bassist of U.K. rockers STATUS QUO, has passed away in Sydney, Australia, at the age 72.
News of his passing was broke down by Australian entertainment reporter and Lancaster’s close friend, Craig Bennett, revealing that he musician had been suffering from Multiple Sclerosis for some time.
“At the request of his loving and deeply cherished family, am heartbroken to announce the passing of Alan Lancaster, British born music royalty, guitar God and founding member of iconic band, STATUS QUO,” Bennett wrote. “Alan Lancaster passed away this morning at his Sydney home, surrounded by family. Alan had been dealing with Multiple Sclerosis. He was 72.
“STATUS QUO began Rockin’ All Over The World in 1967. The legendary band amassed decades of hit songs, including ‘Down Down’ and ‘Whatever You Want.’ Alan married his beautiful wife Dayle Lancaster in 1978. They met when Alan and STATUS QUO, along with Slade and Lindisfarne, toured Australia in 1973. Alan, who was a dear and special friend, is survived by Dayle, his children Alan Jr, Toni and David, plus five grandchildren.
“Dayle said this morning that Alan loved his life in Australia. His mother and father, plus his brother and sister also moved to Australia.
Dayle said: “We are all heartbroken. Alan had a wonderful wit and a fabulously dry sense of humour. He was a devoted and adoring husband, father and grandfather. Family was always his focus.’ Despite having MS and issues with his mobility, Alan participated in hugely successful reunion tours in the UK & Europe in 2013 & 2014. He bravely played to thousands of adoring fans.. and loved being back with the band and his loyal Quo army.
“Vale to an absolute legend and one of the nicest people in rock and roll.”
Alan Lancaster formed the group in 1962 with his then schoolmate Francis Rossi. His final performance as a full-time member of STATUS QUO was at Wembley Stadium on 13 July 1985 for the opening of Live Aid. In March 2013 he collaborated with his old bandmates for a series of “Frantic Four” concerts in the UK.
