Supertramp frontman Rick Davies dies aged 81

Rick Davies, co-founder, vocalist and songwriter for the British band Supertramp, has died aged 81.

In a statement released on Sunday, it was announced that the singer had died following a long battle with cancer.

Davies was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a cancer concentrated in bone marrow that affects white blood cells, in 2015. His diagnosis and need for “aggressive treatment” meant the band had to cancel a reunion tour around Europe later that year

“We had the privilege of knowing him, and playing with him for over 50 years", said the band on a statement on social media. "We offer our sincere condolences to Davies’ wife and the band’s manager Sue Davies.” the band remembered Davies’ “warmth, resilience, and devotion to his wife Sue” and credited him as “the voice and pianist behind Supertramp’s most iconic songs, leaving an indelible mark on rock music history.

Tributes have been pouring in for the late singer on social media, fans have been expressing their sadness at his death, with one fan saying they are "Tearfully celebrating the life and music" of Rick Davies.

Supertramp were a British rock band formed in London in 1970. Supertramp’s breakthrough came with 'Bloody Well Right', written by Davies. They grew more and more successful, with hits including 'Give a Little Bit' and 'The Logical Song', both written and sung by Hodgson with Davies on keys.