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| Joey Molland (1947-2025) |
Joey Molland, the last surviving member of the Welsh pop-rock band Badfinger and a guitarist known for hits like "Baby Blue," "No Matter What," "Day After Day," and "Without You," has passed away at 77. Paul Davie, a long-time friend and bandmate who managed Molland’s social media and website, confirmed to USA TODAY that Molland died late Saturday night, surrounded by family.
Badfinger rose to fame in the 1970s, becoming one of the first acts signed to The Beatles’ Apple Records. The band frequently collaborated with the Fab Four, with Paul McCartney penning their early hit "Come and Get It." Molland also contributed to solo Beatles projects, including George Harrison’s All Things Must Pass and The Concert for Bangladesh, as well as John Lennon’s 1971 album Imagine. Beyond Badfinger, Molland released solo works like This Way Up, After the Pearl, The Pilgrim, and his 2020 album Be True To Yourself, and played with the rock band Natural Gas. He performed live—showcasing both his originals and Beatles tributes—until late 2024, when his health declined, Davie noted.
Davie, who met Molland through his Syracuse-based Beatles tribute band The Fab Five while organizing a 40th-anniversary celebration of the British Invasion, described an instant bond. With Molland’s mentorship, Davie transitioned from a local musician and radio ad salesman to touring globally with the Badfinger star. Since 2011, he’s managed Molland’s online presence, including his Facebook page. "I owe him so much," Davie told USA TODAY. "He always believed in me."
Following Molland’s death, fans have flooded social media with tributes, many calling him a "friend" despite never meeting him, a testament to his enduring connection with listeners, Davie said.
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