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Palos Verdes Estates, California – The music world is mourning the loss of American musician and composer Gary Wright, who passed away at the age of 80. Wright, famous for his chart-topping hits “Dream Weaver” and “Love Is Alive,” had been battling Parkinson’s disease and Lewy body dementia.
Gary Wright’s son, Justin Wright, confirmed the news of his father’s passing. Gary passed away peacefully at his home in Palos Verdes Estates, California, situated in the South Bay area. His health had been in decline since receiving a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease and Lewy body dementia approximately five to six years ago. Over the past year, the progression of Parkinson’s disease had been rapid, eventually leading to his inability to move and communicate. According to sources, nurses attending to Gary in his final days had informed the family that he was entering his last chapter.
Stephen Bishop Pays Tribute to His Friend
Close friend and singer-songwriter Stephen Bishop expressed his grief and paid tribute to Gary Wright. In a heartfelt post on social media, Bishop shared two cherished photos of himself and Gary, along with these words: “It is with great sadness that I received the news of my dear friend Gary Wright’s passing. The attached photos hold precious memories from the very first and last time we shared the stage together, alongside our mutual musical pal John Ford Coley.”
Bishop went on to say, “Gary’s vibrant personality and exceptional talent made every moment together truly enjoyable. His legacy will live on for many years to come. I will always cherish the warmth and kindness shown to me by Gary and his wife Rose, and I will forever hold dear the stories he shared with me about days gone by. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and fans during this difficult time.”
A Musical Legacy Remembered
Gary Wright’s musical journey was marked by significant contributions to the industry. He rose to fame in the 1970s with two iconic songs, “Dream Weaver” and “Love Is Alive,” which continue to resonate with music lovers around the world. Throughout his career, he released a total of 12 albums, starting in 1970, and collaborated with numerous fellow musicians, leaving an indelible mark on the world of music.
One of the standout moments in Gary Wright’s career was his collaboration with former Beatle George Harrison. Wright played keyboards on George’s acclaimed album “All Things Must Pass” and was credited with assisting George on several of his solo tracks. The musical connection between the two was profound, with George reciprocating the favor by contributing to one of Gary’s own albums.
Conclusion
Gary Wright’s passing leaves a void in the world of music, but his remarkable talent and the timeless music he created will continue to inspire generations to come. As the music community joins together to remember and celebrate his contributions, his songs, including “Dream Weaver” and “Love Is Alive,” will forever serve as a testament to his enduring legacy.