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Former Kinks keyboardist John Gosling dies aged 75

The Kinks in the 1970s - (L-R) Mick Avory, Ray Davies, John Dalton, John Gosling and Dave Davies
The Kinks in the 1970s - (L-R) Mick Avory, Ray Davies, John Dalton, John Gosling and Dave Davies

The Kinks' Ray Davies, Dave Davies and Mick Avory have paid tribute to their former bandmate John Gosling following his death aged 75.

Brothers Ray and Dave Davies had formed The Kinks in the 1960s, with Gosling joining the band in 1970 as a keyboard player.

The Kinks announced the musician's death in a statement posted to their social media page, which read: "We are deeply saddened by the news of the passing of John Gosling. We are sending our condolences to John's wife and family."

Lead vocalist Ray Davies paid tribute to his friend and former bandmate and said: "Condolences to his wife Theresa and family. Rest in Peace dearest John."

The band's lead guitarist Dave Davies also offered his condolences and said: "I'm dismayed deeply upset by John Gosling's passing.

"He has been a friend and important contributor to the Kinks music during his time with us.

"Deepest sympathies to his wife and family.

"I will hold deep affection and love for him in my heart always. Great musician and a great man."

The Kinks' drummer Avory said: "Today we lost a dear friend and colleague, he was a great musician and had a fantastic sense of humour... which made him popular member of the band, he leaves us with some happy memories. God Bless him...."

Gosling's audition for the band was the recording session for the classic track Lola.

Gordon Edwards took over from Gosling on keyboards, before Ian Gibbons joined the band in 1979.

In 1994, Gosling became a founding member of the band The Kast Off Kinks, which comprised former band members Avory, Jim Rodford, John Dalton and Dave Clarke.

Gosling stayed in the band until his retirement in 2008.

Source: Press Association

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