Rick Davies, the co-founder, lead singer, and songwriter of the iconic British rock band Supertramp, has died at the age of 81. He passed away on Saturday, September 6th, 2025, at his home on Long Island, New York, after a decade-long battle with multiple myeloma. The news was confirmed on the band's Facebook page and shared by a longtime executive with Supertramp's label, A&M Records.

Born in Swindon, England, in 1944, Davies's passion for music ignited in his childhood, sparked by listening to Gene Krupa's "Drummin' Man". This early inspiration blossomed into a lifelong dedication to jazz, blues, and rock and roll. Davies co-founded Supertramp in 1969 with Roger Hodgson. Together, they became the driving force behind the band's signature sound, characterized by intricate arrangements, thoughtful lyrics, and a unique blend of progressive rock and pop sensibilities.

Davies's contributions to Supertramp extended far beyond his role as a vocalist and keyboardist. He co-wrote many of the band's most beloved songs, including "Bloody Well Right," "Crime of the Century," and "Goodbye Stranger". His soulful vocals and distinctive touch on the Wurlitzer piano became integral to Supertramp's sound, leaving an indelible mark on rock music history. "Goodbye Stranger" was one of three top 10 singles from Supertramp's "Breakfast in America" album. The album reached number one on the Billboard chart in 1979 and was nominated for a Grammy Award for Album of the Year.

During Supertramp's most commercially successful period, Davies shared songwriting and vocal duties with Roger Hodgson. However, Hodgson left to pursue a solo career, and Davies took over as the sole frontman. Despite the departure of Hodgson, Davies continued to lead Supertramp, releasing four more albums and touring extensively.

In 2015, Davies was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, which led to the cancellation of a planned tour. Multiple myeloma is a cancer that forms in plasma cells, a type of white blood cell, that hinders the production of antibodies that fight infections. Although his illness prevented him from touring with Supertramp, Davies continued to perform with his "other" band, Ricky and the Rockets, in his hometown.

The "Supertramp Partnership" released a statement that said, "We had the privilege of knowing him and playing with him for over fifty years. We offer our sincere condolences to [his wife and the band's longtime manager] Sue Davies". The band's Facebook page also posted a statement that celebrated Davies's legacy: "His soulful vocals and unmistakable touch on the Wurlitzer became the heartbeat of the band's sound… Rick's music and legacy continue to inspire many and bears testament to the fact that great songs never die, they live on". Beyond his musical talent, Davies was known for his warmth, resilience, and devotion to his wife, Sue, with whom he shared over five decades.