Gary Wright, the iconic musician celebrated for his timeless hits "Dream Weaver" and "Love Is Alive," has passed away at the age of 80. His son, Dorian Wright, confirmed the news, though the exact cause of death remains undisclosed.
Born in Cresskill, New Jersey, Wright's journey into the world of entertainment began as a child actor, gracing the Broadway stage in the musical "Fanny." However, his true calling was music. He was a pivotal member of the U.K.-based band Spooky Tooth and an esteemed session player from the late '60s onwards. His collaborations with George Harrison, the former Beatle, are particularly noteworthy. Wright played on all of Harrison's solo albums, including the groundbreaking "All Things Must Pass," and even shared the stage with him on American TV's "Dick Cavett Show" in 1971.
Wright's association with Harrison wasn't just professional; the two shared a deep bond, rooted in their mutual interest in Eastern philosophies. Their spiritual connection was so profound that they even journeyed to India together in 1974.
Beyond his collaborations, Wright's solo career was equally illustrious. His 1975 album "The Dream Weaver," inspired by his trip to India with Harrison, became a significant hit. The title track, in particular, cemented his place as a major star. However, the subsequent albums, while noteworthy, couldn't replicate the success of "The Dream Weaver." His last charting single was "Really Wanna Know You" in 1981.
In the subsequent years, Wright dabbled in instrumental and soundtrack work. He made a cameo in the 1992 film "Wayne's World," performing a re-recorded version of "Dream Weaver." He continued to release albums, with "Connected" in 2010 being his last. Wright also reunited with Spooky Tooth in 2004 and toured extensively, both as a solo act and with Ringo Starr's All-Starr Band.
His legacy is not just limited to his own songs. Over the years, artists ranging from Chaka Khan to Jay-Z have covered or sampled his tracks, ensuring that his music continues to resonate with newer generations.
The Daily Mail further reports that Wright had been battling Parkinson's disease for the past five to six years and had recently developed Lewy body dementia. His deteriorating health had rendered him almost immobile and unable to speak in the last year.
Tributes have been pouring in from all corners of the music industry. Stephen Bishop, a two-time Grammy nominee, reminisced about the cherished moments he shared with Wright. Radio personality Andre Gardner lauded him as one of the kindest rock stars he had ever interviewed.
Gary Wright's passing is undoubtedly a significant loss to the music world. His songs, collaborations, and influence spanned decades, leaving an indelible mark on the industry. He is survived by his wife, Rose, and their two children, Justin and Dorian.
