Gary Wright, singer-songwriter known for the hit “Dream Weaver” and who played with George Harrison, dies aged 80 after battling Parkinson’s and dementia
- Wright is best known for his influential all-keyboard album The Dream Weaver (1975).
- After this hit, he devoted himself to world and new age music as well as film music
- Wright also played keyboards on George Harrison’s classic “All Things Must Pass.”
Gary Wright, the musician known for the 1976 hit “Dream Weaver” and major work on former Beatle George Harrison’s biggest solo album, has died aged 80.
Gary’s son Justin Wright told TMZ that his father died Monday morning at his home in Palos Verdes Estates, California.
He said the singer-songwriter battled Parkinson’s disease for five to six years and more recently developed Lewy body dementia.
Justin added that the composer’s Parkinson’s symptoms have worsened significantly over the past year, unfortunately leaving Gary unable to speak or move much.
He added that home health workers who had been caring for the musician informed his family members a few days ago that he was nearing the end of his life.
Final note: Gary Wright, the musician best known for the 1976 hit “Dream Weaver,” has died at the age of 80. Gary’s son Justin Wright told TMZ that his father died Monday morning at his home in Palos Verdes Estates, California, after battling Parkinson’s disease and dementia; seen in 2014 in NYC
After a private health battle: Gary’s son Justin Wright told TMZ that his father died Monday morning at his home in Palos Verdes Estates, California
Following news of his death, tributes began pouring in online, with many commenting on his legacy and contribution to music.
“It is with great sadness that I received the news of the death of my dear friend Gary Wright. “The attached photos contain precious memories of the first and last time we shared the stage with our mutual musical buddy John Ford Coley,” tweeted Stephen Bishop. “Gary’s vibrant personality and exceptional talent made every moment together truly enjoyable.”
The two-time Grammy nominee continued, “His legacy will live on for many years to come.” I will always cherish the warmth and kindness that Gary and his wife Rose showed me, and I will cherish the stories he told me about days gone by told, will be remembered forever. My deepest condolences go out to his family, friends and fans during this difficult time.”
“I’m so sorry to hear of the passing of Gary Wright.” He was one of the nicest rock stars I’ve ever had the pleasure of interviewing and he leaves behind a wonderful body of work. “Condolences to his family, friends and fans,” radio host Andre Gardner wrote on Twitter.
Another, apparently also referencing the death of Margaritaville singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffett over the weekend, tweeted: “Rest in peace Gary Wright. “It seems like everything and everyone is disappearing.”
RIP: After news of his death, tributes began pouring in online, with many commenting on his legacy and contribution to music
“I’m so sorry to hear of the passing of Gary Wright.” He was one of the nicest rock stars I’ve ever had the pleasure of interviewing and he leaves behind a wonderful body of work. “Condolences to his family, friends and fans,” radio host Andre Gardner wrote on Twitter