Robert Smith, left, Simon Gallup, center, and Perry Bamonte of British rock group The Cure hold a plaque after being inducted into Hollywood's Rockwalk in Los Angeles, Friday, April 30, 2004. (AP Photo)
Perry Bamonte, the longtime guitarist and keyboardist who helped shape The Cure’s sound for more than three decades, has died at the age of 65. The band confirmed his death on Friday, saying he passed away peacefully at home after a short illness during the Christmas period.
In a statement posted on its official website, The Cure described Bamonte as a deeply creative and essential part of the group’s history, remembering him as quiet, intuitive and unwaveringly committed to the band’s musical journey.
A Trusted Presence in The Cure’s Inner Circle
Bamonte’s association with The Cure began long before he became a full-time band member. From the mid-1980s, he worked closely with the group as a roadie and guitar technician, earning the trust of frontman Robert Smith and the rest of the band.
In 1990, Bamonte officially joined The Cure following the departure of keyboardist Roger O’Donnell. His arrival came shortly after the band’s commercial breakthrough with Disintegration, placing him at the heart of their most globally successful era.
Albums That Defined a Generation
As a full member, Bamonte contributed guitar, keyboards and six-string bass across several major releases. His work features prominently on Wish (1992), the album that delivered enduring hits like “Friday I’m in Love” and “High.”
He also played on Wild Mood Swings (1996), Bloodflowers (2000), and the band’s self-titled 2004 album. These records reflected The Cure’s evolving sound, blending melancholy, experimentation and emotional depth.
Years on the Road and a Painful Exit
During his initial tenure, Bamonte performed at more than 400 live shows over 14 years. In 2005, he was dismissed from the band, a decision made by Smith that surprised many fans.
Despite the split, Bamonte’s relationship with The Cure was not permanently severed.
A Return and Long-Awaited Recognition
Bamonte reunited with the band in recent years and returned to touring in 2022. He joined The Cure for around 90 live performances, reconnecting with audiences across the world.
In 2019, Bamonte was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame alongside his bandmates, formally recognizing his contribution to one of the most influential alternative bands in music history.
Final Performance and Lasting Legacy
His final appearance with The Cure took place on Nov. 1, 2024, in London. The one-night-only performance celebrated the launch of Songs of a Lost World, the band’s first studio album in 16 years.
That concert was filmed and released globally as The Cure: The Show of a Lost World, now available in cinemas and on home media.
Critics praised the album as one of the band’s strongest works, describing it as expansive, emotional and richly orchestrated.
Remembered Beyond the Stage
In their tribute, The Cure emphasized Bamonte’s warmth and creative spirit, calling him a vital part of their story.
For fans, Perry Bamonte leaves behind a body of work that helped define generations of alternative music — and a legacy that remains woven into The Cure’s enduring sound.
