Rick Davies, the influential co-founder of the British rock band Supertramp, has passed away at 81 at his Long Island home.

After a decade-long battle with multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer, Davies died on Sept. 5, as confirmed by the band's surviving members in a solemn tribute, as the New York Post reports.

The musician was diagnosed with cancer back in 2015, which led to the unfortunate cancellation of the band's European tour that year.

A fond farewell

Supertramp, formed in the 1970s by Davies and Roger Hodgson, is renowned for its unique sound blending rock, pop, and progressive rock elements.

In a heartfelt message shared on social media, the members expressed their sorrow over the loss of their co-founder, acknowledging his significant contributions to the band's success.

“The Supertramp Partnership is very sad to announce [his passing] after a long illness,” the message read. They went on to reminisce about Davies' role as the “voice and pianist” of many of the band’s iconic hits.

Supertramp's rise to fame remembered

Over the course of their career, Supertramp became a household name with hits like "Goodbye Stranger," "Give a Little Bit," and "Breakfast in America."

The band, comprising Davies, Hodgson, Dougie Thomson, Bob Siebenberg, and John Helliwell, enjoyed a successful decade-long run from 1973 to 1983.

Their 1979 album, Breakfast in America, was particularly successful, earning the group four Grammy Award nominations, among them Album of the Year in 1980.

Distinctive sound evolves

Supertramp's distinctive sound, marked by Davies' soulful vocals and unmistakable Wurlitzer piano, resonated deeply with fans worldwide, selling millions of records.

Despite the band's eventual dissolution in the early 1980s, they left an indelible legacy on the music industry, with Davies' creative genius at the helm.

Their musical journey came to a turning point in 1982 with the release of Famous Last Words, after which Hodgson departed due to creative differences.

Creative differences, new directions

Following Hodgson's departure, Davies and the remaining Supertramp members continued to perform and produce music until their final album in 2002, Slow Motion.

The band's relevance in pop culture persisted, with their music still enjoyed by both older fans and new generations discovering their sound.

Despite the band's success, the members occasionally faced creative clashes, a common occurrence in group dynamics.

Davies' legacy lives on

Davies, alongside his contributions to Supertramp, will be remembered for his unwavering passion for music and his influence on the rock genre.

His peers described him as a visionary whose talents and creativity helped shape the music of a generation.

In their tribute, the surviving band members fondly mentioned, “We had the privilege of knowing him, and playing with him for over fifty years.”

Fans celebrate life, mourn loss

The heartfelt messages from fans and fellow musicians pouring in reflect the deep impact Davies had through his music. Supertramp's surviving members also extended their condolences to Davies' wife, Sue, expressing gratitude for the years shared with him.

Through memorable hits and a lasting legacy, Davies' spirit will continue to influence and inspire the music world.