The Cure has announced the death of longtime band member Perry Bamonte, who passed away at age 65 after a short illness during the Christmas period. The announcement was made in a statement published on The Cure’s official website.
The band released an emotional tribute honoring Bamonte’s significant contributions to The Cure over multiple decades.
“It is with enormous sadness that we confirm the death of our great friend and bandmate Perry Bamonte, who passed away after a short illness at home over Christmas,” the band stated. “Quiet, intense, intuitive, constant and hugely creative, ‘Teddy’ was a warm-hearted and vital part of the Cure story.”
The statement detailed Bamonte’s extensive history with the band. It highlighted his evolution from crew member to full-time musician.
“Looking after the band from 1984 through 1989, he became a full-time member of The Cure in 1990, playing guitar, six-string bass and keyboard on the Wish, Wild Mood Swings, Bloodflowers, Acoustic Hits and The Cure albums, as well as performing more than 400 shows over 14 years,” they continued.
The band also noted Bamonte’s recent return to performing with the group.
“He rejoined The Cure in 2022, playing another 90 shows, some of the best in the band’s history, culminating with the Show Of A Lost World concert in London 12th November 2024,” the statement concluded. “Our thoughts and condolences are with all his family.”
Bamonte’s journey with The Cure began during a pivotal period in the band’s history. It marked both personal and professional milestones that would define his decades-long relationship with the group.
ABC News reported that Bamonte joined the band just after its mainstream breakthrough with 1989’s Disintegration, when keyboardist Roger O’Donnell quit. His timing proved crucial as The Cure was entering one of its most commercially successful periods.
Before becoming a full-time member, Bamonte worked in various roles from 1984 to 1989, including as roadie and guitar tech. ABC News noted this behind-the-scenes experience gave him intimate knowledge of the band’s operations and musical direction.
However, Bamonte’s tenure with The Cure was not without challenges. ABC News revealed that he was fired by singer Robert Smith in 2005. He continued his musical career with Love Amongst Ruins during his time away from the band.
The musician’s contributions to The Cure were recognized on a broader scale when he was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame alongside the rest of The Cure in 2019. ABC News confirmed this recognition. His recent work with the band on Songs of a Lost World was particularly well-received. The Associated Press described the album as “lush and deeply orchestral, swelling and powerful” — one of the best of the band’s career.
