‘Remarkable musician’ Richard Tandy of Electric Light Orchestra passes away at 76

Renowned keyboardist Richard Tandy, celebrated for his pivotal role in shaping the sound of Electric Light Orchestra (ELO), has passed away at the age of 76.

His passing was announced by the band’s frontman Jeff Lynne in a heartfelt tribute to his “dear friend.”

“It is with great sadness that I share the news of the passing of my long-time collaborator and dear friend Richard Tandy,” he began.

“He was a remarkable musician & friend and I’ll cherish the lifetime of memories we had together.

“Sending all my love to Sheila & the Tandy family.”

Born in Birmingham on March 26, 1948, Tandy’s musical journey began early in life. It was during his school years at Moseley School that he first crossed paths with future ELO bandmate Bev Bevan, igniting a partnership that would shape the trajectory of rock music.

Tandy’s illustrious career saw him not only as a founding member of ELO but also as a creative force behind the band’s most iconic albums, including A New World Record and Out of the Blue. His collaboration with ELO frontman Jeff Lynne extended beyond the confines of the band, with Tandy showcasing his musical versatility on various projects, from intricate keyboard melodies to soulful guitar riffs.

Tandy was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with the group in 2017.

Outside of ELO, Tandy’s musical pursuits were equally remarkable. From his formation of the Tandy Morgan Band to his participation in live performances and studio recordings, his influence reverberated far beyond the confines of a single band or genre.

As news of his passing broke, fans from near and far paid tribute with messages of condolences and remembrance, many reflecting on Tandy’s profound impact on their lives and musical journeys.

RIP Richard Tandy of ELO and so much more … whew. Just lovely. pic.twitter.com/5RYLTNJQO0

— All American (@AllAmerican202) May 2, 2024

Electric Light Orchestra’s Richard Tandy has died aged 76. Along with Jeff Lynne, he was the only other member who was in all three of the band’s line ups. That’s him on the Minimoog, Mellotron, Clavinet, and piano, and he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. pic.twitter.com/wLA43bAdXF

— Eric Alper 🎧 (@ThatEricAlper) May 1, 2024

Our Richard Tandy.
Devastated.
A quiet god 🖤 pic.twitter.com/kFZHdutuJc

— JR Dickenson (@JR_Dickenson) May 1, 2024

RIP Richard Tandy pic.twitter.com/QN3Nh6h8pR

— Ian Hilton – Blue tick in the post (@hilton_ian) May 1, 2024

SAD FAREWELL – Richard Tandy
As keyboardist of Electric Light Orchestra, Richard was truly the heart of their sound. RIP pic.twitter.com/jz3o3uTdG3

— James L. Neibaur (@JimLNeibaur) May 1, 2024

Very sad news tonight.

Richard Tandy helped make the soundtrack of my youth. No matter what car journey we took my dad was always playing @JeffLynnesELO on the stereo.

Sending love to the Tandy family & all who are coming to terms with this news. https://t.co/8m754zpKKi

— Mark Young (@MarkYoung23) May 1, 2024

While no cause of death was provided, Tandy had reportedly been ill for several years.