Francis Buchholz has sadly passed away at the age of 71. The bassist is best known for his time with rock bands Scorpions and Temple of Rock.
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According to TMZ, Buchholz had been battling cancer. His family released a statement on social media confirming his death.
"It is with overwhelming sadness and heavy hearts we share the news that our beloved Francis passed away yesterday after a private battle with cancer,"
the statement read. "He departed this world peacefully, surrounded by love."Francis' family then went on to thank his global fanbase for the love and support they'd shown him throughout his career.
"To his fans around the world - we want to thank you for your unwavering loyalty, your love, and the belief you placed in him throughout his incredible journey. You gave him the world, and he gave you his music in return. Though the strings have gone silent, his soul remains in every note he played and in every life he touched."
Francis began his music career in the early 70s, having learned to play bass in high school. His initial release with Scorpions came out in '74, titled "Fly To The Rainbow." He stayed with the band until 1992. In 2012, Francis teamed up with Temple of Rock, playing on their tour and contributing to their 2013 album "Bridge The Gap" and 2015 album "Spirit On A Mission."
Francis Buchholz Previously Named His Favorite Songs From His Time With 'Scorpions'
During a 1991 interview with Riff Raff magazine, Francis discussed some of his favorite works from his career.
"Listening to other albums, I very much like Lovedrive," he said. "And Love at First Sting is a very good album, it's one of my favourite albums. When I'm at home, after a tour, I have one of those days where you think back over what you have done and you drink a bottle of red wine and get out all the old albums and sit there and listen to them until four o'clock in the morning and relive all those situations."
Francis will certainly be missed. His family has not shared any details regarding his funeral or service. They're likely to remain closed off to the public.
