Brian James Obituary, Death: The music world has lost one of its true pioneers, as Brian James, guitarist, songwriter, and founding member of The Damned, passed away on March 6, 2025, at the age of 66. Known for his pivotal role in shaping the UK punk scene, Brian was the principal songwriter behind The Damned’s debut album, Damned Damned Damned, which was released in February 1977. His passing marks the end of an era for many who admired his influence and musical contributions.
Brian’s most iconic achievement was writing New Rose, which is widely regarded as the first-ever UK punk single. This song helped define the punk genre and solidified The Damned as a pioneering force in the movement. Brian’s work with the band not only helped shape the punk era but also left an indelible mark on rock music. However, after the release of The Damned’s second album, Music for Pleasure, Brian parted ways with the band and continued to explore new musical horizons.
He formed Tanz Der Youth, a short-lived but influential project, before going on to form The Lords of the New Church with his close friend, Stiv Bators. The band enjoyed considerable success, releasing three studio albums and producing hit singles such as “Open Your Eyes,” “Dance with Me,” and “Method to My Madness.” The combination of Brian’s vision and Stiv Bators’ energy created a unique sound that resonated with fans of both punk and rock music.
Never one to rest on his laurels, Brian was always eager to collaborate with different musicians and explore new projects. Over the years, he formed The Dripping Lips, contributed to various records, and created the Brian James Gang. He also worked on solo albums that continued to reflect his unyielding creativity and passion for music. Throughout his career, Brian collaborated with many renowned musicians, including Iggy Pop, Wayne Kramer, Stewart Copeland, and Cheetah Chrome. His music not only influenced the punk and rock scenes but also found its way into various film and television soundtracks.
In 2022, more than four decades after the release of New Rose, Brian reunited with the original members of The Damned for a series of emotional and highly anticipated UK shows. The performances were a testament to his enduring legacy and influence on the punk rock genre. Despite his passing, his impact on music continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans.
Brian passed peacefully with his wife, Minna, son Charlie, and daughter-in-law Alicia by his side. Known not just for his musical genius, but also for his kindness and humility, Brian was beloved by his peers and fans alike. His contributions to punk rock, rock ‘n’ roll, and music as a whole are immeasurable, and his legacy as a true gentleman and relentless creative force will live on.
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