Hawking founding member, Mick Slattery, who was the original guitarist, and co-founder of the rock band Hawkwind, has died at the age of 77.
While he left the group not long after its formation, he was known to be instrumental in creating one of the most fabled space rock acts in British music.
He and singer/guitarist Dave Brock, still a member today, formed the band in 1969, from the remnants of a previous psychedelic outfit called The Famous Cure, along with bass player John Harrison and drummer Terry Ollis.
They were joined by saxophonist Nik Turner and synth player Dik Mik Davies.
Slattery remained in the music industry, playing in Turner’s band Space Ritual and more recently in Hawkestrel.
The band announced that the musician passed away on St Patrick’s Day (March 17) following a short illness and died at home.
The band, who recorded several tracks at Abbey Road Studios, are best known for their song Silver Machine.
In a joint statement, Dave said: ‘We are sorry to share the sad news that our old friend, and Hawkwind founder member, Mick Slattery passed away peacefully at home yesterday, St Patrick’s Day, March 17, 2023, aged 77, after a short illness.
‘Me and Mick played together in a band called Famous Cure in 1967, touring Holland before going on to form Hawkwind in 1969.
‘I have lots of fond memories from our younger days, playing together in Holland and hanging out in Richmond at the L’Auberge Cafe and Eel Pie Island.
‘In the late 60s, we used to rehearse in my upstairs flat in Putney and also in the basement of Bob Kerr’s music shop in Gwalior Road, playing loud music, much to the annoyance of our neighbours. Fly free old friend.’
