Tetsu Yamauchi, the former bassist for Free and Faces, has died at the age of 79. According to a statement from his family, Yamauchi passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones.
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"(Tetsu Yamauchi) passed away peacefully, surrounded by family," his family's statement read. "We sincerely thank everyone who enjoyed Tetsu's music and offered kind words until now. Those were fun times. It's a long time, but a short time."
Yamauchi began his career in the 60s. He made the move to join Free in the 70s for a one-off album called "Kossoff Kirke Tetsu Rabbit." He replaced Andy Fraser in the band following a disconnect between the members.
During his prime, Yamauchi was known to enjoy the party lifestyle of being in a band. It's that same lifestyle that ensured he wasn't a good fit for Faces, with former bandmate Ian McLagan recalling that Yamauchi's party-hard lifestyle didn't blend with the rest of the group.
We made a mistake really with Tetsu," keyboardist Ian McLagan later recalled. "It wasn't his fault, but he was a party boy and thought he was in for lots of drinks and a little bit of playing, while we were looking for more creation and a lot less boozing."
Former Bands and Bandmates Have Issued Statements Over Tetsu Yamauchi's Death
Shortly after the news of Yamauchi's passing, his former band, Faces, released a statement via their Facebook page.
"We're really sad to hear about the passing of Tetsu,"
the statement read. "Our thoughts and prayers go out to all those who knew and loved him. He will be missed by us all."Simon Kirke, the drummer for Free, also
posted his own statement regarding his former bandmates' passing."I sadly just heard that Tetsu passed away. He was a good friend and a great bass player. My condolences to his family and close friends. May he rest in peace."
Yamauchi was a talented guitarist and musician. The fact that he played in multiple bands and produced studio albums with each speaks to his overall talent.
Following Yamauchi's passing on Dec. 4, there has been no information regarding his burial and service. It's likely those will be held for close family and friends.
