LONDON — Scott Walker, the influential singer, songwriter and producer whose hits with the Walker Brothers in the 1960s included “The Sun Ain’t Gonna Shine Anymore,” has died. He was 76.
The record company 4AD announced the death on Monday. The company said he died Friday afternoon in London. A cause of death wasn’t given.
The Walker Brothers enjoyed a string of hits that also included “Make It Easy on Yourself.” Scott Walker later went on to produce numerous songs, movie scores and a number of solo albums.
The Ohio-born Walker, who began his career as a session bass player, changed his name from Noel Scott Engel when he joined the Walker Brothers, also relocating to London.
The Walker Brothers were hugely popular in Britain at a time when the music scene was dominated by the Beatles and the Rolling Stones. They also enjoyed hits in the United States. He left the band to pursue a solo career when they were near their commercial peak.
Walker Released a Number of Well-Received Albums
As a solo artist, Walker released a number of well-received albums, and joined the Walker Brothers for a final album together in the 1980s. He also produced numerous albums for other artists and was seen as an influential figure in the music world.
Thom Yorke of Radiohead tweeted his sadness at Walker’s death.
“He was a huge influence on Radiohead and myself, showing me how I could use my voice and words,” York said. “Met him once at Meltdown (festival), such a kind gentle outsider. He will be very missed.”
Marc Almond of Soft Cell called Walker an “absolute musical genius, existential and intellectual and a star right from the days of the Walker Brothers.”
“He gave me so much inspiration,” Almond wrote on Instagram.
The record company says Walker is survived by partner Beverly, daughter Lee and granddaughter Emmi-Lee.
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