Gary Wright, known for songs like “Dream Weaver” and “Love is Alive” has died. He was 80.
The singer and songwriter had been suffering from Parkinson’s disease and Lewy body dementia, according to his son Justin who confirmed the news to KABC.
Wright died in his home on Monday morning surrounded by his family and loved ones.
Following news of his death, fellow singer and songwriter Stephen Bishop shared a tribute in honor of Wright.
“It is with great sadness that I received the news of my dear friend Gary Wright’s passing,” Bishop posted on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter. “The attached photos hold precious memories from the very first and last time we shared the stage together, alongside our mutual musical pal John Ford Coley.”
Bishop continued, “Gary’s vibrant personality and exceptional talent made every moment together truly enjoyable. His legacy will live on for many years to come. I will always cherish the warmth and kindness shown to me by Gary and his wife Rose, and I will forever hold dear the stories he shared with me about days gone by. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and fans during this difficult time.”
Wright was born in Cresskill, New Jersey on April 26, 1943. He got into show business as a child actor making his television debut at the young age of seven in a show filmed in New York titled Captain Video and His Video Rangers. In 1954 he would go on to star in the Broadway musical Fanny playing one of Florence Henderson’s sons.
Making a move to the U.K. for college, he would later be one of the founders of the rock group Spooky Tooth in 1967. The artist would also go on to play keyboards for George Harrison, collaborating with him on his first album after The Beatles.
Wright broke out with his third solo album titled The Dream Weaver which was released in 1975.
Gary Wright in 1978
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