Brian James, the guitarist of The Damned, has passed away.
The news of the English musician's death circulated on social media earlier this evening, March 6th, before being officially confirmed on his Facebook page. Brian James was 70 years old, and the message stated:
Brian peacefully passed away on Thursday, March 6, 2025, with his wife Minna, son Charlie, and daughter-in-law Alicia at his side.
A significant figure in the mid-70s punk scene in London, Brian James became involved with London SS and the Subterraneans before forming The Damned. The band's groundbreaking debut single, “New Rose,” played a crucial role in igniting a whole movement—arguably the first true punk release in the country—remaining a striking and intense piece of raw guitar chaos.
An exceptionally creative individual, Brian James authored most of the songs on The Damned's first two studio albums before leaving in 1977.
In the years that followed, the guitarist collaborated with numerous projects. The official statement on his passing highlighted:
Relentlessly creative and a musical powerhouse, Brian had a career that lasted more than six decades, with his music appearing in film and television soundtracks. Besides his work with The Damned and The Lords of the New Church, he collaborated with many notable figures in punk and rock 'n' roll, including Iggy Pop, Wayne Kramer, Stewart Copeland, and Cheetah Chrome.
In his late 60s, the guitarist made a comeback—Brian James rejoined The Damned for a series of inspiring live performances in 2022, including a comprehensive tour across Britain.
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Brian James, the guitarist of The Damned, has passed away. The news of the English musician's death spread rapidly on social media earlier tonight, March 6th, before