Died On This Date (December 6, 2012) Huw Lloyd-Langton / Hawkwind Guitarist
themusicsover Huw Lloyd-Langton (Born Richard Hugh Lloyd-Langton)
February 6, 1951 – December 6, 2012
Huw Lloyd-Langton was an English guitarist and singer who is perhaps best remembered as a three-time member of space rock pioneers, Hawkwind. The band, which famously included Lemmy Kilmister of Motorhead at one time, was a direct influence on the likes of Al Jourgensen of Ministry, Henry Rollins, Monster Magnet, and the Sex Pistols, who covered their “Silver Machine.” Born outside of London, Lloyd-Langton joined Hawkwind in time to play on their debut self-titled album of 1970. Although the long-player was not a commercial success, it is held in high regard since it was one of the first space rock albums in history. Lloyd-Langton left the band two years after its release due to an illness. Aside from Hawkwind, he played with Leo Sayer, the Bonzo Dog Band, Pretty Things, Widowmaker, and his own Lloyd-Langton Group. He re-joined Hawkwind in 1979, and played on their albums, Live Seventy Nine and Levitation. He left the group again during the late ’80s only to rejoin in 2001 until a bout with Legionnaires Disease forced him to depart for good. In later years, he could be heard opening for the Hawkwind as a solo act. On December 6, 2012, Huw Lloyd-Langton passed away following a 2-year battle with cancer. He was 61.
Thanks to Henk de Bruin for the assist.
What You Should Own
Vivian Stanshall was, among other things, an eccentric English musician, songwriter and singer. He is perhaps best remembered a founding member of the eclectic psychedelic jazz rock band, Bonzo Dog Band. Formed in 1962 while Stanshall was in art school, the ensemble soon became popular thanks, in part to its vaudeville-type live shows and revolving group of invited guests. That list included Eric Clapton, Elton John, and Eric Idle. Of note to current indie rock fans, Death Cab For Cutie is also the title of a song written by Stanshall. As the band’s popularity increased, so did the demand for their live show. It has been reported that Stanshall battled with stage fright and increasing panic attacks so he turned to prescription drugs and alcohol for release. That, plus the others getting burned out by the heavy touring schedule, lead to their break-up in 1970. Following the Bonzo Dog Band, Stanshall continued to form other, but less notable bands over the next several years. On March 5, 1995, Vivian Stanshall died in his bed as the result of a fire due to faulty wiring. He was 51 years old.