John Wetton, best known as singer and bassist for legendary prog rock group King Crimson and the co-founder of prog supergroup Asia, has passed away. He lost his life on January 31 to colon cancer at age 67.
King Crimson was one of the most important prog band of the 1970s, and, spearheaded by the Wetton’s writing talents, Asia went on to enjoy massive crossover success in the 1980s.
The news was announced via Wetton’s personal website. A touching note about his life focuses on how had been proudly sober for 11 years, and volunteered much of his time to supporting others in need.
Asia drummer Carl Palmer (Emerson, Lake and Palmer), released the following statement: “John was a gentle person who created some of the most lasting melodies and lyrics in modern popular music. As a musician, he was both brave and innovative, with a voice that took the music of Asia to the top of the charts around the world. His ability to triumph over alcohol abuse made him an inspiration to many who have also fought that battle. For those of us who knew him and worked with him, his valiant struggle against cancer was a further inspiration. I will miss his talent, his sense of humour and his infectious smile.”