John Gosling, the esteemed keyboardist for The Kinks, passed away on Friday at the age of 75. The news of his departure prompted members of the iconic British rock ensemble to express their heartfelt tributes on various social media platforms.
In a touching homage, the band shared their profound sorrow at John Gosling’s passing. Alongside a poignant black-and-white video featuring Gosling, they extended their condolences to his wife and family. Ray Davies, a founding member of the group, conveyed his sympathies to John’s wife Theresa and family, bidding a serene farewell to his dear friend. Lead guitarist Dave Davies echoed the sentiment, expressing his profound dismay at the loss. He commemorated Gosling as not only a talented musician but also a close friend and vital contributor to The Kinks’ musical journey. Dave Davies offered his deepest sympathies to John’s family and shared that he would always hold a place of deep affection for him.
Mick Avory, the band’s steadfast drummer, took to the digital realm to share his sorrow. Avory recalled John Gosling as a cherished friend and colleague, highlighting his exceptional musicianship and delightful sense of humor. These qualities endeared him to the band and left behind a legacy of fond memories. Gosling, affectionately known as “John the Baptist,” had a background steeped in classical training as both an organist and a pianist.
Gosling’s journey with The Kinks began in 1970 when he joined the band and notably auditioned during the recording session for the iconic track “Lola.” Over the course of eight years, he contributed to 10 albums, leaving an indelible mark on the influential rock group. Albums such as “Muswell Hillbillies” and “Everybody’s in Show-Biz” bore the imprint of his musical prowess. Departing from The Kinks in 1978, Gosling would go on to play a pivotal role in the formation of the Kast Off Kinks in 1994.
As a member of the Kast Off Kinks, alongside fellow musicians Mick Avory, Jim Rodford, and John Dalton, Gosling continued to captivate audiences until his retirement in 2008. In a revealing interview shared through Kast Off Kinks, he contemplated an alternate trajectory for his life, had he not joined The Kinks in the ’70s. Gosling humorously speculated that music would undoubtedly have played a prominent role, or perhaps he would have ventured into the unexpected profession of a “unicorn exterminator.”
