Tony Thorpe, the guitarist of The Rubettes, dies aged 80
Tony Thorpe, guitarist of the 1970s group The Rubettes, has died aged 80. A statement announcing the news read: “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. “His recently failing health did little to diminish his fierce intellect and sharp sense of humour. He will leave an unfillable hole in the lives of all who knew him, or his music. Our love and thoughts go to his son Clayton. God bless, Tone x.” Thorpe performed with the band from 1974 to 1979, alongside Alan Williams, John Richardson, Pete Arnesen, Mick Clarke and Bill Hurd (Tony Thorpe) Thorpe started playing guitar and drums at 11, becoming professional five years later following a gig with Wee Willie Harris. The Rubettes, formed in 1974, emerged onto the music scene as the glam rock era concluded, distinctive for their trademark white suits and cloth caps. Their debut single, “Sugar …
