Supertramp's Rick Davies Dies at 81 Due to Cancer

Rick Davies, co-founder and keyboardist of legendary rock band Supertramp, has died, following a fight with cancer at the age of 81. Davies was known for his distinctive voice, soulful songwriting, and killer piano chops when he co-founded Supertramp with Roger Hodgson in England in the late 1960s. Fans across the world have expressed their sorrow at the loss of a music great. His mark on rock music has inspired generations.

Rick Davies Early Life and Career

Rick Davies had a quintessential English upbringing, with a great love of music developing at an early age; he then studied music academically and became competent on piano and keyboards. Later while in England, Davies partnered with Roger Hodgson to co-found Supertramp. As the early years of Davies' life were filled with devoted practice to hone his craft, he quickly became recognized for his unique voice and flair for blending rock with progressive music to give Supertramp its original sound. 

Rick Davies, the Supertramp co-founder, singer, and keyboardist who penned some of the band's most popular and enduring songs, including "Goodbye Stranger," "My Kind of Lady," and "Cannonball," has died at age 81.

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— Rolling Stone (@RollingStone) September 8, 2025

Famous Songs by Rick Davies in Supertramp

Rick Davies wrote and sang some of the biggest hits from Supertramp. His distinctive voice and imagination left his fans with timeless hits that continue to be a part of life today. A few of his famous songs include;

• Bloody Well Right
• Goodbye Stranger
• Take the Long Way Home
• Rudy
• Another Man's Woman
• From Now On
• Ain't Nobody But Me
• Downstream
• Crime of the Century

Each of these songs illustrate Davies’ genius for writing songs with substantive lyrics, memorable melodies and elaborate keyboard arrangements.

Rick Davies Personal Life and Legacy

Rick Davies had a private personal life, despite his fame. His humility as a person and musician ensured that he never shared his fame and celebrity vampire lifestyle, otherwise he would just become like every other famous invented artist out there. He remained concerned with producing and performing music to connect, give appreciation to, and make a difference in our industry.

Rick Davies Battle with Cancer

Rick Davies, in recent years, has been fighting a private battle with cancer. From what we can find out, his family and inner circle decided to keep his condition private so they could allow Rick to continue producing a legacy and plan for the future of his life without an audience - a true rockstar for sure. Anyway, his passing marks the end of an era for progressive rock fans and Supertramp fans.Rick Davies Influence on Music and Supertramp

Rick Davies Influence on Music and Supertramp

The impact Rick Davies' contributions had on music can not be measured. Great music should never be measured - the impact Rick Davies co-founded Supertramp has had on both, progressive rock and pop music continues to impact artists of all generations since their beginning about 1969. Rick Davies, in his passing, will be remembered for his musical talent and passion, but most importantly, his creativity and commitment to his work.

Remembering Rick Davies and His Music

Rick Davies will be fondly remembered as one of the greatest and most influential musicians of his generation, as well as for his dedication to music, style & his artistry will leave an everlasting and unique stamp on the world of rock. Fans are encourage to celebrate his life by listening to many of the classic songs he performed with Supertramp. 

RIP Rick Davies
Thx for the incredible music that I still listen to today.
🎼🎹❤️

— Sue (@canuck27) September 8, 2025

Fans and Musicians React to Rick Davies’ Death

Rick Davies' fans across the globe are saddened and reflecting on how his songs -- "Dreamer" and "Goodbye Stranger," for example -- became a part of their lives. Many said that his music felt personal -- a friend who knew them.

Musicians made tribute as well, referring to him as a gifted keyboardist and songwriter who inspired generations with his approach to combining rock and jazz through emotion. He left behind a legacy that will live on, through his ever-to-be remembered songs.