Keith Levene, founding member of British punk band The Clash and post-punk band Public Image Limited, has died at the age of 65, according to several relatives of the musician who made the announcement on the networks.
The guitarist suffered from liver cancer and died at home “peacefully, comfortably and surrounded by love,” according to The Guardian, according to his family. Born Julian Levene in Muswell Hill, north London, Levene formed The Clash with guitarist Mick Jones and bassist Paul Simonon when he was just 18 years old.
Keith Levene was with The Clash long enough to contribute to some big hits like What’s My Name in 1977, but left the band before the first album was released to form the band Public Image Limited with John Lydon.
Red Hot Chili Peppers guitarist John Frusciante was among the musician’s admirers, even claiming he was “spectacular” and “exploring the possibilities of what you could do with a guitar.” of post-punk music, his guitar style moves between edgy wear and tear and pop opulence”.
Levene also enjoyed building guitars and collaborated with writer Adam Hammond on a book through Public Image Limited. The latter also confided on Twitter that Levene is “one of the most innovative, courageous and influential guitarists of all time”.
This is the second major figure rock music has lost in 24 hours, following the death of Nik Turner, co-founder of the group Hawwind.