Tony Thorpe, guitarist and songwriter known for his role in the 1970s pop group The Rubettes, passed away on July 18 at the age of 80, his family announced. The statement described Thorpe as “a father, a husband, a friend to many, and a mentor to countless musicians,” noting that despite recent health issues, he maintained a “fierce intellect and sharp sense of humour.”

Thorpe began playing guitar and drums at the age of 11 and turned professional by 16 after performing with rocker Wee Willie Harris. He joined The Rubettes when the band formed in 1974, contributing to their rise as one of the defining pop acts of the decade. The group became known for their distinctive white suits and cloth caps, as well as their hit debut single “Sugar Baby Love,” which spent four weeks at number one on the UK charts in May 1974 and also entered the US Top 40. Other successful singles included “Tonight,” “Juke Box Jive,” and “I Can Do It.”

Alan Williams, Thorpe’s former bandmate, paid tribute on social media, recalling their musical partnership and honoring Thorpe’s talent both as a guitarist and songwriter. “Your brilliance with the axe and the pen cannot be denied and remains with us, never forgotten. Rest now, Cowboy,” Williams wrote.

Thorpe remained with The Rubettes until 1979, reportedly departing due to creative differences. Following his exit, the band continued with a replacement guitarist but eventually disbanded in 1980, reforming briefly two years later.

Beyond his work with The Rubettes, Thorpe performed with the Vibratones and the Coventry Theatre Orchestra and pursued a solo career. He also lectured at Blackburn College and authored his memoir, *A Bride’s Nightie*, published in 2014.