Remembering Joey Molland: The last surviving member of Badfinger and his legacy in rock music
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The world of rock music has lost another cherished icon with the passing of Joey Molland, the last surviving member of the legendary 1970s Welsh pop-rock band, Badfinger.
At 77 years old, Molland’s legacy as a gifted guitarist and musician is cemented in the history of rock ‘n roll.
His melodies, which became the soundtrack to a generation, continue to live on, and at The GrayVine, we honor his remarkable life and the unforgettable mark he left on the music world.
Joey Molland’s journey with Badfinger began during an era of musical transformation.
The band, one of the first acts to sign with the Beatles’ Apple label in 1968, became a trailblazer in pop-rock.
Their music, including hits like "No Matter What," "Day After Day," and the McCartney-penned "Come and Get It," showcased their unmatched ability to craft catchy tunes and rich harmonies.
However, Badfinger’s association with the Beatles, while a blessing in some ways, also proved challenging for the band’s identity.
Growing up near the iconic Penny Lane in Liverpool, Molland’s musical journey was always intertwined with the Beatles.
Badfinger's collaborations with George Harrison on All Things Must Pass and John Lennon on Imagine solidified their place in rock history, and their influence was undeniable.
Also read: Sad news: “General Hospital” star Leslie Charleson, 79, passes away—a look back at her iconic life
Despite their early success, Badfinger’s trajectory was clouded by tragedy.
The band’s eventual decline was marked by the collapse of Apple Records, financial mismanagement, and a series of devastating personal losses—Pete Ham’s suicide in 1975, Tom Evans’ in 1983, and Mike Gibbins’ death in 2005.
Through these hardships, Molland’s resilience shone.
He continued to produce music and tour, releasing solo albums like This Way Up, After the Pearl, and Be True To Yourself, proving his unwavering dedication to his craft.
Molland’s final moments remain private, as confirmed by Sam Sheffield-West, the funeral director at Washburn-McReavy Funeral Chapels in Edina, Minnesota, where Molland lived for many years.
His passing signifies the end of an era for Badfinger, as well as a profound loss for fans who grew up listening to their music.
Also read: Legendary "Soul Man" singer Sam Moore passes away at 89—a tribute to his life and legacy
As we say goodbye to Joey Molland, we honor his lasting influence on rock music and the unforgettable legacy of Badfinger.
His melodies will continue to resonate with fans old and new, and his story serves as a reminder of the power of music to shape our lives.
Read next: WATCH: A 90-year-old hero’s tearful reunion with the man she saved 64 years ago!
As we reflect on Molland’s contribution to rock, we invite you, our readers, to share your memories of Badfinger. Did a particular song resonate with you? Were you lucky enough to see them live in concert? Or perhaps you have a personal connection to their music that you’d like to share? Let’s keep the conversation alive!
At 77 years old, Molland’s legacy as a gifted guitarist and musician is cemented in the history of rock ‘n roll.
His melodies, which became the soundtrack to a generation, continue to live on, and at The GrayVine, we honor his remarkable life and the unforgettable mark he left on the music world.
Joey Molland’s journey with Badfinger began during an era of musical transformation.
The band, one of the first acts to sign with the Beatles’ Apple label in 1968, became a trailblazer in pop-rock.
Their music, including hits like "No Matter What," "Day After Day," and the McCartney-penned "Come and Get It," showcased their unmatched ability to craft catchy tunes and rich harmonies.
Joey Molland, the last surviving member of Badfinger, continues to be remembered for his musical legacy and contributions to rock history. Image Source: YouTube / GrowingBolder.
However, Badfinger’s association with the Beatles, while a blessing in some ways, also proved challenging for the band’s identity.
Growing up near the iconic Penny Lane in Liverpool, Molland’s musical journey was always intertwined with the Beatles.
Badfinger's collaborations with George Harrison on All Things Must Pass and John Lennon on Imagine solidified their place in rock history, and their influence was undeniable.
Also read: Sad news: “General Hospital” star Leslie Charleson, 79, passes away—a look back at her iconic life
Despite their early success, Badfinger’s trajectory was clouded by tragedy.
The band’s eventual decline was marked by the collapse of Apple Records, financial mismanagement, and a series of devastating personal losses—Pete Ham’s suicide in 1975, Tom Evans’ in 1983, and Mike Gibbins’ death in 2005.
Through these hardships, Molland’s resilience shone.
He continued to produce music and tour, releasing solo albums like This Way Up, After the Pearl, and Be True To Yourself, proving his unwavering dedication to his craft.
Molland’s final moments remain private, as confirmed by Sam Sheffield-West, the funeral director at Washburn-McReavy Funeral Chapels in Edina, Minnesota, where Molland lived for many years.
His passing signifies the end of an era for Badfinger, as well as a profound loss for fans who grew up listening to their music.
Also read: Legendary "Soul Man" singer Sam Moore passes away at 89—a tribute to his life and legacy
As we say goodbye to Joey Molland, we honor his lasting influence on rock music and the unforgettable legacy of Badfinger.
His melodies will continue to resonate with fans old and new, and his story serves as a reminder of the power of music to shape our lives.
Read next: WATCH: A 90-year-old hero’s tearful reunion with the man she saved 64 years ago!
As we reflect on Molland’s contribution to rock, we invite you, our readers, to share your memories of Badfinger. Did a particular song resonate with you? Were you lucky enough to see them live in concert? Or perhaps you have a personal connection to their music that you’d like to share? Let’s keep the conversation alive!
