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British Punk Rock Guitarist Brian James Dead at 70: Founded The Damned and Played with Black Sabbath

BBG News

Legendary British punk rock guitarist Brian James has died at the age of 70. 

On Thursday, it was shared via his social media that the musician, known for founding The Damned and collaborating with Black Sabbath, passed away tranquilly.

He leaves behind his wife Minna, son Charlie, and daughter-in-law Alicia.

Brian, often referred to as a trailblazer in the realm of music and an epitome of grace, performed alongside musical legends like Iggy Pop during his professional journey.

In the 1970s, he gained global acclaim for his primary songwriting position with the band The Damned.

Additionally, Brian earned recognition for penning the United Kingdom’s initial punk song, “New Rose,” that debuted in October 1976.

With deep regret, we share the news of the passing of a trailblazer in music, Brian James – an exceptional guitarist, songwriter, and a true embodiment of gentlemanly grace.

After releasing their second album, Brian departed from The Damned and subsequently established Tanz Der Youth, a band that had a brief existence.

He later formed The Lords of the New Church with his friend and fellow rocker Stiv Bators. 

Together they released singles such as Open Your Eyes, Dance with Me, and Method to My Madness.

He then went on to The Dripping Lips and the Brian James Gang and created more solo albums. 

In 2022, over four decades following the debut of “New Rose,” The Damned came together once again for a string of performances throughout the United Kingdom.

Over the course of his professional journey, Brian collaborated with several renowned rock ‘n’ roll artists such as Iggy Pop, Wayne Kramer, Stewart Copeland, and Cheetah Chrome.

As a lifestyle expert reflecting on the legacy of a truly inspiring figure, let me share some thoughts about Brian. A relentless creative force, he left an indelible mark across more than six decades in music. His compositions were not only celebrated in their original forms but also found a home in film and television soundtracks. Beyond his work with The Damned and The Lords of the New Church, Brian collaborated extensively with the crème de la crème of punk and rock ‘n’ roll, from Iggy Pop to Wayne Kramer, Stewart Copeland to Cheetah Chrome. It was an honor to witness such a rich tapestry of collaboration unfold.

Lately, over four decades following the launch of their groundbreaking song “New Rose”, the original band members of The Damned reunited for a heartfelt and memorable series of concerts across the UK in the year 2022.

On Thursday, 6th March 2025, Brian, accompanied by his wife Minna, son Charlie, and daughter-in-law Alicia, transitioned serenely.

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2025-03-07 02:53

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