Full Breakdown
Perry Bamonte, Longtime Guitarist of The Cure, Passes Away at 65
12/26/2025, 11:53:44 PM
Announcement of Death
Perry Archangelo Bamonte, the esteemed guitarist and keyboardist for the iconic British band The Cure, has died at the age of 65. The band confirmed his passing on December 26, 2025, stating that he died at home following a short illness during the Christmas holiday. The Cure expressed their sorrow in an official statement, describing Bamonte as “quiet, intense, intuitive, constant and hugely creative,” and a “warm-hearted and vital part of The Cure story.”
Career with The Cure
Bamonte's journey with The Cure began in 1984 when he joined the band's road crew, initially serving as a guitar technician and personal assistant to lead singer Robert Smith. He officially became a full-time member in 1990 after keyboardist Roger O'Donnell's departure. Over his two tenures with the band, from 1990 to 2005 and then from 2022 until his death, Bamonte contributed to several critically acclaimed albums, including *Wish* (1992), *Wild Mood Swings* (1996), *Bloodflowers* (2000), and the self-titled album released in 2004. His work on the hit songs “Friday I’m in Love,” “High,” and “A Letter to Elise” solidified his legacy within the band.
During his first stint, Bamonte performed in over 400 shows, showcasing his versatility on guitar, six-string bass, and keyboards. After a hiatus, he rejoined The Cure in 2022, participating in an additional 90 concerts, which were noted as some of the best in the band's history. His final performance was on November 1, 2024, at the Troxy in London, where the band launched their latest album, *Songs of a Lost World*.
Legacy and Tributes
Bamonte's contributions to The Cure were recognized when he was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2019 alongside his bandmates. His passing has elicited an outpouring of tributes from fans and former colleagues. Lol Tolhurst, a founding member of The Cure, expressed his condolences on social media, calling Bamonte a “quiet unassuming man” who will be missed by many.
What's Next
The Cure, now consisting of Robert Smith, Simon Gallup, and Jason Cooper, had planned a UK and European tour for 2026, which Bamonte was expected to join. The band has not yet announced how they will proceed following his death.
Perry Bamonte is survived by his wife, Donna. His impact on The Cure and the broader music landscape will be remembered by fans and musicians alike.
