Joey Molland, the last surviving member of Badfinger's classic lineup, passed away at age 77. According to an announcement on the Original Badfinger Facebook page, Molland died surrounded by his longtime girlfriend Mary, his two sons, and other family members. He had been battling health issues, including pneumonia, since December.
The Liverpool-born guitarist joined Badfinger (then known as the Iveys) in 1969, becoming part of the band's definitive lineup alongside Pete Ham, Mike Gibbins, and Tom Evans. The group, signed to the Beatles' Apple Records, achieved major success in the early 1970s with hits like "No Matter What," "Day After Day," and "Baby Blue."
Molland's career extended beyond Badfinger, including notable collaborations with former Beatles. He played on George Harrison's "All Things Must Pass" and "The Concert For Bangladesh," as well as John Lennon's iconic 1971 album "Imagine."
Despite the band's early success, Badfinger faced severe challenges due to financial mismanagement. The group suffered tragic losses with Pete Ham's suicide in 1975 and Tom Evans' suicide in 1983. Following these events, Molland continued performing under various incarnations of the Badfinger name and released six solo albums, with his final record "Be True to Yourself" appearing in 2020.
In recent years, Molland participated in Beatles tribute tours alongside artists like Todd Rundgren, Micky Dolenz, and Christopher Cross, helping keep Badfinger's musical legacy alive for new generations of fans.
His passing marks the end of an era for the pioneering power pop band that left an indelible mark on rock music history.