Perry Bamonte Death Confirmed as The Cure Guitarist Dies at 65
Perry Bamonte death has been confirmed. The longtime guitarist and keyboardist for The Cure has died aged 65. The band said Bamonte passed away after a short illness at home over Christmas.
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The Cure announced the news on its official website. The band said it was sharing the statement with “enormous sadness.” Bamonte was described as a vital and creative part of The Cure’s history.
Early Years With The Cure
Although Perry Bamonte officially became a full member of The Cure in 1990, his association with the band began several years earlier. In 1984, he joined the group’s road crew, working behind the scenes during tours and performances. His involvement came through his brother, Daryl Bamonte, who was serving as the band’s tour manager at the time.
From 1984 through 1989, Bamonte played a crucial role in supporting the band during live performances and tours. The Cure later described this period as one in which he was “looking after the band,” highlighting his importance even before stepping into the spotlight as a performing member.
Becoming a Full-Time Band Member
Perry Bamonte became a full member of The Cure in 1990 following the departure of keyboardist Roger O’Donnell. Once officially part of the lineup, Bamonte took on multiple roles within the band, playing guitar, six-string bass, and keyboards.
He went on to contribute to several major studio albums, including Wish (1992), Wild Mood Swings (1996), Bloodflowers (2000), Acoustic Hits (2001), and The Cure (2004). These albums represent an important era in the band’s evolution and include some of their most widely recognized work.
Bamonte’s musicianship featured on well-known tracks such as Friday I’m in Love, High, and A Letter to Elise. Over the course of 14 years, he performed more than 400 shows with The Cure, becoming a familiar and respected presence on stage.
Live Performances and Touring Legacy
In addition to studio recordings, Bamonte appeared on The Cure’s live albums Paris and Show, both released in 1993. His contributions to live performances helped define the band’s sound during tours throughout the 1990s and early 2000s.
After the band was reconfigured as a trio, Bamonte left The Cure in 2005. Despite his departure, his impact on the band’s music and touring history remained significant.
Return to The Cure and Final Performances
Perry Bamonte rejoined The Cure in 2022, marking a notable return to the band after nearly two decades. During this period, he played approximately 90 shows, which the band later described as some of the best performances in their history.
His final appearance with The Cure came at the Show of a Lost World concert in London on 1 November 2024. The performance would later be remembered as the culmination of his second tenure with the band.
Recognition and Rock Hall Induction
In 2019, Bamonte was present when The Cure were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The induction recognized the band’s lasting influence on goth, post-punk, and indie music, genres in which Bamonte played a central role during his years as a member.
Work Outside The Cure
Beyond his work with The Cure, Bamonte was also involved in other musical projects. He served as the bass player for the supergroup Love Amongst Ruin, alongside former Placebo drummer Steve Hewitt and Julian Cope collaborator Donald Ross Skinner. The group released two studio albums: their self-titled debut in 2010 and Lose Your Way in 2015.
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Outside of music, Bamonte pursued interests that reflected his creative personality. He was passionate about fly fishing and developed a parallel career as an illustrator. His artwork was published in Fly Culture magazine, highlighting another dimension of his artistic talent.
Tributes From Bandmates
Tributes poured in following the announcement of the Perry Bamonte death, including a message from former Cure drummer Lol Tolhurst. Writing on Instagram, Tolhurst said: “So sad to hear about Perry Bamonte passing. Cindy and I send our condolences to all that knew him. Farewell Teddy.”
A Lasting Legacy
Formed in 1976, The Cure became one of the most influential bands in British music history. Perry Bamonte’s role within the band spanned decades, covering key studio albums, extensive touring, and a meaningful return late in the band’s career.
As news of Perry Bamonte dies aged 65 continues to resonate with fans worldwide, his contributions to The Cure’s sound, live performances, and creative identity remain firmly embedded in the band’s legacy. His work helped shape an era of alternative music that continues to influence artists and audiences today.
