British rock band The Cure have confirmed the death of their 'warm hearted' bandmate, Perry Bamonte, who passed away at the age of 65 following a ‘short illness.’
Singer Robert Smith announced the news on the band’s official website on Friday, when they confirmed the loss of their ‘great friend and bandmate’ over the Christmas period.
The poignant message read: "Quiet, intense, intuitive, constant and hugely creative, 'teddy' was a warm-hearted and vital part of the Cure story.
"He became a full-time member of the Cure in 1990, Playing guitar, six-string bass and keyboard. On the Wish, Wild Mood Swings, Bloodflowers, Acoustic Hits and the Cure albums. As well as performing more than 400 shows over 14 years.
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"He rejoined the crew in 2022, playing another 90 shows, some of the best in the band's history, culminating with the show of a lost world concert in London on 1st November 2024. Our thoughts and condolences are with all his family. He will be very greatly missed."
Although not a founding member of the band, Perry initially joined the band's touring team back in 1984 alongside his brother who worked as a tour manager.
He then progressed to working as a guitar technician and right-hand man to lead singer Robert Smith.
Everything changed in 1990 however, when Roger O'Donnell departed for pastures new, opening up a vacancy for Perry to join the band full time.
He performed consistently with them for 15 years up until 2005 before he too left to pursue other projects, returning once again in 2022 as part of their Shows of a Lost World tour.
Perry was scheduled to participate in the band's forthcoming UK tour dates next year.
Following the news of his death, fans and famous faces alike shared their grief online, with many posting fond memories of Perry.
Musician Stuart Braithwaite wrote: "So sad to hear about Perry Bamonte leaving us. He was a lovely, kind soul who always made everyone feel welcome. Pictured here after The Cure show in Glasgow a few years back with Andy from The Twilight Sad. Rest easy Perry X"
Former Cure drummer Lol Tolhurst, posted a tribute on Instagram, saying: "So sad to hear about Perry Bamonte passing... Farewell Teddy."
Another supporter posted on X, "Perry Bamonte of The Cure has died. A sweet and tender soul. I've seen The Cure live around a dozen times and he was there for most of them."
With a third adding: "R.I.P. Perry Bamonte, your music with The Cure changed my life."
Phoebe Tonks