Pentangle founder Danny Thompson dies aged 86

The multi-instrumentalist was known for his skill on double bass, founded the English folk group Pentangle and played alongside legendary musicians such as Kate Bush, Nick Drake, John Martyn and Roy Orbison.

His management stated that Thompson died peacefully in his home on September 23.

"Danny was a force of nature. A player who served the song and who enriched the lives of every single person he met," his managment wrote. "He will be sorely missed."

He began his musical career at a young age after performing his first professional gig at a music club in SoHo at 16. During his two years in the national service stationed in Malaysia, Thompson played trombone for the army band.

After returning to the U.K, Thompson began playing electric bass for Roy Orbison's band, even playing a 1963 tour that was supported by The Beatles. This was the only time he played electric bass professionally.

He formed Pentangle in 1967. The band released 'Basket of Light' in 1969 and achieved a top five spot on the UK's album charts. He left the group a few years later.

Thompson went on to play with various musicians such as British jazz artists Tubby Hayes and Stan Tracey, as well as American gospel group The Blind Boys of Alabama.

From 1995 to 2013, Thompson played with the 'house band' in fives series of the BBC/RTE program 'Transatlantic Sessions'.

He is survived by his wife Sylvia and his son Dan Junior.

• • View his management's entire statement below:

 

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