The musician was 70 years old and faced with cancer
OR guitarist of ABBA, Lasse Wellander, is dead after a brief battle with cancer on Friday the 7th. He was 70 years old.
“It is with indescribable sadness that we announce that our beloved Lasse has fallen asleep. Lasse had recently fallen ill with what turned out to be widespread cancer and early on Good Friday he passed away, surrounded by his loved ones,” reads the a statement posted on the guitarist’s site on Facebook on Sunday 9.
The statement reads: ‘You were an incredible and humble musician like few others, but more importantly you were a wonderful husband, father, brother, uncle and grandfather. we have to live without you. We love you and miss you dearly.”
In another note, posted on their social networks, the Abba paid tribute to the musician, who has played on most of their records and performed with the Swedish group throughout the band’s history. “Lasse was a dear friend, a funny guy and an excellent guitarist. The importance of his creative input in the recording studio, as well as his solid guitar work on stage, was immense. We mourn his tragic and untimely passing and we remember his kind words, sense of humour, smiling face, musical brilliance of the man who played such an important part in ABBA’s history. He will be greatly missed and never forgotten.” The text is signed by Agnetha, Björn, Frida and Benny.
Lasse Wellander was born on October 18, 1952 and started playing with Abba in 1974, during which time the band recorded songs such as Intermezzo No.1 and Crazy World. Lasse accompanied Abba, as lead guitarist, on tours in 1975, 1977, 1979 and 1980.
Source: Terra
Earl Johnson is a music writer at Gossipify, known for his in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the industry. A graduate of USC with a degree in Music, he brings years of experience and passion to his writing. He covers the latest releases and trends, always on the lookout for the next big thing in music.
