Showaddywaddy guitarist Trevor Oakes dies aged 79 after a long illness as bandmate pays tribute

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Showaddywaddy guitarist Trevor Oakes has died aged 79 after suffering from a long illness. 

The founder of a popular 1970s rock band died peacefully on February 18th. Former singer and bandmate Dave Bartram remembered him fondly.

The band, which still tours, rose to fame with revivals of songs from the 1950s and early 1960s. 

They scored ten Top 10 singles with Under the Moon of Love becoming a Number One hit in 1976. 

Dave shared that Trevor was a one-of-a-kind person and a committed musician. He believes the band wouldn’t have reached its full potential without Trevor’s contributions.

He was a loving and playful family man, and his sense of humor will be greatly missed by everyone who knew and loved him.

He shared that the past fifty-seven years have created countless wonderful memories, but what he cherishes most is his friend’s constant support. He expressed his deepest gratitude, signing off as a true friend, Dave.

Showaddywaddy continues to tour, but now only features one of its original members.

Dave is now the manager of a team consisting of Romeo Challenger, Andy Pelos, Tom Bull, Sam Holland, Billy Shannon, and David Graham.

Showaddywaddy came together in 1973 when members of the band Choise – Dave Bartram, Trevor Oakes, Al James, and Romeo – teamed up with musicians from another group.

After playing together at a pub in Leicester, Buddy Gask, Russ Field, Rod Deas, and Malcolm Allured – who together were known as The Golden Hammers – decided to officially become a band.

Over the years, our team has seen some changes! Back in the 80s, we said goodbye to Malcolm, Russ, and Buddy. We were lucky enough to welcome Ray Martinez and then Danny Willson to the mix – each bringing their own unique talents and helping us continue to deliver the best!

I was so sad when Al James retired in 2008, and then even more heartbroken to hear about Trevor’s health struggles and his passing the next year. They were both fantastic, and I really missed seeing them!

Dave was the lead singer of the band for 38 years, retiring from performing in 2011. He still manages the group today.

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2026-03-29 00:48