Gary Wright, the singer and keyboardist known for the 1970s synthesizer-driven hits “Dream Weaver” and “Love Is Alive,” has died. He was 80.
Wright died Monday at his home in Palos Verdes Estates, his son Justin Wright told TMZ.
Born on April 26, 1943, in New Jersey, Wright worked as a child actor and at age 7 appeared on the 1949 TV series Captain Video and His Video Rangers. He also worked on TV commercials and starred in the 1954 Broadway musical Fanny.
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Wright went to college in New York to study psychology before moving to Germany to complete his studies. In Europe, he met Island Records founder Chris Blackwell, who introduced him to musician Mike Harrison in the late ’60s. They formed the British rock band Spooky Tooth, which disbanded in 1970.
Wright recorded solo for A&M Records, formed the band Wonderwheel and collaborated with other artists, including playing keyboard on George Harrison’s All Things Must Pass album, released in 1970. In 1973, Spooky Tooth reunited briefly.
Wright recorded 10 albums during his career, including The Dream Weaver in 1975, which featured “Dream Weaver” and “Love Is Alive.”
Singer-songwriter Stephen Bishop was among those who took to social media to remember the musician, writing that “Gary’s vibrant personality and exceptional talent made every moment together truly enjoyable. … His legacy will live on for many years to come.”
It is with great sadness that I received the news of my dear friend Gary Wright's passing. The attached photos hold precious memories from the very first and last time we shared the stage together, alongside our mutual musical pal John Ford Coley. Gary's vibrant personality and… pic.twitter.com/r7bwnIhKME
— Stephen Bishop (@BishSongs) September 4, 2023ncG1vNJzZmivp6x7qbvLpbCwp5%2BZv6a8zqurnqpemLyue82erqxnnarAqq%2BMp5ywq1%2BcrrPFjLCpop%2BYqXqlscCdZJ2qlZa6bsPEmq2eql1mf3SBlHFocW5gZA%3D%3D
