Perry Bamonte of The Cure Has Passed Away at Age 65 — Remembering a Quiet Force Behind the Music
The music world is in mourning today after the announcement that Perry Archangelo Bamonte, beloved guitarist, keyboardist, and longtime member of The Cure, has died at the age of 65. According to the band’s official statement, Bamonte passed away at his home over the Christmas period following a short illness, leaving behind a legacy that helped shape the sound and spirit of one of alternative rock’s most enduring bands.
A Humble Beginning: From Road Crew to Band Member
Perry Bamonte’s story with The Cure began not on a stage but behind the scenes. Born in London on September 3, 1960, Bamonte initially joined the band’s road crew in 1984, working alongside his brother Daryl, who served as the band’s tour manager. During this period, he quickly became trusted as Robert Smith’s guitar technician and personal assistant — a role that immersed him deeply in the creative world of the band long before he became a performer himself.
When keyboardist Roger O’Donnell departed in 1990, Bamonte stepped into the spotlight as a full-time member. Not only did he swap tools for instruments, but he also proved himself a musical force in his own right — handling guitar, keyboards, and even six-string bass with fluidity and precision.
Musical Contributions That Helped Define an Era
Bamonte became a central contributor to The Cure’s most celebrated years. His first album with the band was the 1992 record Wish, which included iconic tracks such as “Friday I’m in Love” and “High” — songs that continue to resonate with listeners around the world. He went on to perform on several other landmark albums, including Wild Mood Swings (1996), Bloodflowers (2000), and the self-titled The Cure (2004), reinforcing his versatility across genres that ranged from gothic rock to ethereal pop.
Bamonte’s influence extended well beyond studio recordings. Between 1990 and 2005, he performed with The Cure at more than 400 live shows, bringing depth and texture to their sound across continents and decades.
Hiatus and a Triumphant Return
In 2005, Bamonte’s journey with The Cure took an unexpected turn when frontman Robert Smith made the difficult decision to part ways with him as the band evolved. Though saddened by the separation, Bamonte continued to pursue music and artistic work, even contributing to other projects such as the rock supergroup Love Amongst Ruin.
However, the story did not end there. In 2019, Bamonte was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame alongside his bandmates — a long-awaited recognition of his vital role in the band’s history and influence.
Beginning in 2022, Bamonte rejoined The Cure for their Shows of a Lost World tour, performing in around 90 additional shows — including his final appearances up through late 2024. These performances not only marked a joyful reunion but showcased the enduring chemistry between him and his longtime collaborators.
A Legacy Beyond the Stage
More than just a musician, Bamonte was known by bandmates and fans alike as “quiet, intense, intuitive, constant and hugely creative.” The Cure’s official statement called him “a warm-hearted and vital part of The Cure story,” illustrating how his presence — both on and off stage — was deeply valued by those who knew him.
That mix of humility and artistry is what made him stand out. He was not always the most flamboyant figure, nor did he seek the brightest spotlight — yet his contributions were foundational. Whether weaving distinctive guitar lines, laying down key keyboard textures, or anchoring the rhythm on six-string bass, Bamonte brought emotional nuance and technical skill to everything he touched.
Tributes From Fans and the Music Community
News of Bamonte’s passing reverberated quickly across social platforms and fan communities. Longtime listeners shared memories of seeing him live, recalling how his playing brought a sense of atmosphere and depth to The Cure’s already rich catalogue. Others spoke of his kindness, with many fans remembering interactions at shows or his approachable presence offstage.
Even among casual fans, his impact was felt. Posts flooded message boards and social networks with stories of first discovering The Cure through albums Bamonte played on, or memories tied to songs where his musical fingerprints were unmistakable. This collective mourning reflects a simple truth: artists like Perry don’t just play notes — they shape soundtracks to people’s lives.
Final Performances and Lasting Influence
Bamonte’s final performances came during The Cure’s Shows of a Lost World tour, with his last public appearance documented in the London concert on November 1, 2024. That show, immortalized in the concert film The Show of a Lost World, stands now as a testament to his enduring musicianship and connection with audiences around the globe.
Although he did not appear on the band’s Songs of a Lost World album — the recording had been completed before his return — his live interpretations helped bring the record’s sound to life night after night.
Remembering Perry Bamonte
Perry Bamonte’s passing leaves a void in the world of alternative music, but his influence will continue to reverberate. From his early days supporting the band behind the scenes to his multi-instrumental contributions during some of The Cure’s most beloved eras, he embodied a lifelong dedication to music and collaboration.
More than that, he showed what it looks like to be an artist who elevates the work of others without ever demanding the spotlight. His legacy isn’t just found in the albums and performances he contributed to — it lives in the countless fans who found meaning in The Cure’s sound and in the waves of musicians who drew inspiration from his work.
As tributes continue and fans reflect on his life and art, one thing remains clear: Perry Bamonte’s music will live on, echoing through speakers, speakers and headphones, and in the hearts of listeners for generations to come.
Rest in peace, Teddy — your melodies endure. 🎸🖤
