Tony Thorpe, the guitarist known for his work with the English glam-rock band the Rubettes, has died at the age of 80. The announcement of his passing was made through a statement on his official Facebook page, which described him as a devoted father, husband, friend, and mentor to many musicians. Despite deteriorating health in recent times, Thorpe was noted for maintaining a sharp intellect and sense of humor.

The Rubettes were formed in 1973, originally consisting of session musicians who recorded several doo-wop-inspired tracks, leading to their breakout hit "Sugar Baby Love." Released in 1974, the single reached number one on the U.K. charts and entered the top 40 in the United States, becoming the band’s most recognizable song. The Rubettes, distinguished by their signature white suits, gained further success across Europe with additional hits such as “Tonight,” “Juke Box Jive,” and “I Can Do It.”

Throughout his tenure with the band, Thorpe contributed not only as a guitarist but also as a lead vocalist on select tracks, including “Baby I Know.” He departed from the Rubettes in 1979, although the band continued to perform in various configurations in the following years. Over the course of their career, the group sold millions of singles primarily in the European market.

Alan Williams, the singer from the Rubettes’ classic lineup, paid tribute to Thorpe in a message posted on the band’s official Facebook page. He described Thorpe as “mercifully now at peace” and reflected on the brief but meaningful time they shared together, praising Thorpe’s talent with both guitar and songwriting. Williams added that Thorpe’s influence and memory would endure among those who knew him.

Thorpe’s death marks the loss of a key figure in the glam rock era whose work left a lasting imprint on the band and the genre.