The Rubettes guitarist Tony Thorpe dead aged 80: Celebrated musician passes away following health battle

Tony Thorpe, the celebrated guitarist and vocalist of the 1970s glam rock band The Rubettes, has died at the age of 80 following a prolonged illness. His death was announced by his family, who shared a heartfelt tribute highlighting his legacy as a devoted father, husband, friend, and mentor. The family stated, “It is with great sadness that we officially announce the passing of Anthony John Thorpe. He was a father to Clay, a husband to Shirle, a friend to many, and a mentor to countless musicians young and old.” They added that despite his declining health, Thorpe remained intellectually sharp and humorously witty, leaving behind an indelible mark on both personal relationships and professional circles. Thorpe’s career spanned several decades, beginning in his early teens. He started playing the guitar and drums at age 11 and turned professional at 16 after joining the band led by Wee Willie Harris. Prior to forming his own groups, he performed with semi-professional ensembles such as the Royal Blue Dance Band and the Carefrees. These early experiences saw him contribute to the creation of three original songs, including the B-side “We Love You Beatles.” His musical journey continued with the Vibratones, a three-member group that included guitarist Jordan Westwell and bassist Gregory Harper, members he had previously collaborated with over four decades earlier. In addition to his work with these bands, Thorpe played alongside notable figures in British entertainment. He accompanied the Coventry Theatre Orchestra, performing for artists such as Cilla Black, Jilly Tarbuck, Harry Seacome, and Roy Castle. Later, he arranged and performed for teen idol Tommy Steele before becoming a key member of The Rubettes. As part of the band, he contributed as a guitarist, singer, and songwriter, helping shape the group’s signature sound during their peak in the 1970s. The Rubettes gained fame through their energetic performances and catchy hits, including their appearance on the popular TV show Top Of The Pops in 1974. Their lineup at that time included John Richardson, Alan Williams, Bill Hurd, Mick Clarke, and Pete Arnesen, with Thorpe standing out as a central figure. His contributions to the band helped solidify their place in the history of British pop music. Beyond his professional achievements, Thorpe was known for his candid and often humorous reflections on life. His website featured a collection of musings that revealed his unique perspective on relationships, society, and spirituality. One of his more controversial remarks questioned the idea of casual sex, stating, “I never understood the concept of ‘casual sex’. Sex always made me feel about as casual as a black soul singer with Tourette's Syndrome who has just woken up right in the middle of an extremely well-attended Ku Klux Klan rally.” Another quip reflected his cynical view of life, noting, “Life is awful and the human race is insane. Thank God for the ants.” On the topic of romance, Thorpe offered a sardonic take, suggesting, “Romance is all very charming and sophisticated, but its inevitable conclusion is two people rutting like animals to satisfy their own carnal desire, then mortgages.” His poetic sensibilities were also evident in a piece he penned for his website, which highlighted the diversity of beliefs among his fellow performers: “I am a Christian, the drummer's Hindu, the bassist's a Muslim, the pianist's a Jew... The saxist is Rasta, the trumpeter's Sikh, and our singers are Buddhist and orthodox Greek. We all play our parts and we each have our name but we’re on the same stage and the song is the same.” Thorpe’s influence extended beyond his music into the broader cultural landscape. His work with The Rubettes and other groups left a lasting impact on the British music scene, while his personal insights continue to resonate with fans and fellow musicians alike. As the music world mourns the loss of this multifaceted artist, his legacy endures through his body of work and the enduring memories of those who knew him.