Bill Fay, the legendary English singer/songwriter who gained recognition later in his career with a number of albums through Dead Oceans, has passed away at the age of 81. The announcement of his death came from Dead Oceans on Friday, February 21.
Videos by American Songwriter
“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Bill Fay, who died peacefully this morning (February 21st) in London, aged 81,” the label noted in a statement. “Bill was a gentle man and a gentleman, wise beyond our times. He was a private person with the biggest of hearts, who wrote immensely moving, meaningful songs that will continue to find people for years to come.”
The statement goes on to note that a month ahead of Fay’s passing, he had been working on a new album. Dead Oceans, an independent record label that helped bring attention to Bill Fay’s incredible music, plans to finish the album and release it at some point in the future.
The cause of Fay’s death has not been revealed.
Remembering the Cult Legacy of Bill Fay
Bill Fay released his first eponymous record in 1970. That album was followed by Time Of The Last Persecution in 1971. Neither of those albums were commercially successful. Fay had no choice but to pursue other careers, including being a groundskeeper, factory worker, a fruit picker, and other odd jobs.
Fay didn’t get the recognition he deserved until the 1990s, when his music gained cult status. Big names like Nick Cave and Jeff Tweedy from Wilco are among some of his biggest fans.
After 40 years of not making music, Fay returned in 2012 with the record Life Is People, released through Dead Ocean. He released two more albums before his death, including the 2015 album Who Is The Sender? and the 2020 album Countless Branches. Both records were also released through Dead Oceans.
Fay’s music was known for being both simple and elegant. There’s little in the way of ambition there. Fay made beautiful, humble music because he wanted to; not necessarily because he wanted to be famous.
We wish Bill Fay’s family, loved ones, and fans the best during this difficult time. The “man in the corner of the room at the piano” will live on in our hearts.
Photo via YouTube
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Leave a Reply
Only members can comment. Become a member. Already a member? Log in.