Farewell to the bass that gave rhythm to the golden era of Scorpions
The news came to us like a sudden, powerful bass riff. Francis Buchholz, the man who provided the groove to classics like “Rock You Like a Hurricane,” has died. He was 71 years old and had been privately battling cancer for some time.
His family announced it on Friday on social networks. They said he left peacefully, surrounded by love, on Thursday. They appreciated the affection of the followers. Those same ones who for decades have chanted the bass lines he created.
“She left this world in peace, surrounded by love”
— Statement from the Buchholz family
The band says goodbye to an old friend
Scorpions didn’t take long to react. They shared an emotional message, signed by Klaus Meine, Rudolf Schenker and Matthias Jabs.
“Dear fans: We have just received the sad news of the passing of our old friend and bassist, Francis Buchholz. His legacy with the band will last forever”
— Scorpions official statement
They sent strength to his wife Hella and his entire family. An end of chapter for a legendary era.
Who was Francis? A guy from Hannover who started in local bands while studying engineering. But the music was stronger. In the 70s he formed Dawn Road with Uli Jon Roth. And that project ended up merging with… yes, Scorpions.
He officially entered in 1973. His recording debut was Fly to the Rainbow (1974). And he stayed there for almost 20 years. Just the most glorious stage of the group.
He put his sound—melodic but with incredible punch—on albums that defined a generation:
- Lovedrive (1979)
- Love at First Sting (1984)
- Crazy World (1990)
I mean, he’s there, at the backbone of “Still Loving You” and “Wind of Change.” In the hurricane that is “Rock You Like a Hurricane.”
He left in 1992. Family reasons and some disagreements behind the scenes. But he didn’t hang up the bass. In 2012 he joined Michael Schenker’s band Temple of Rock for a tour.
Today a key piece of world hard rock goes out. A guy whose legacy plays every time someone turns on the radio and that riff plays. Rest in peace, Francis.
