The band The Cure has announced the passing of their bandmate, Perry Bamonte, at the age of 65. Perry had been dealing with a brief illness, as shared by the band in their tribute to him.
In an official statement posted on their website, The Cure confirmed the loss of their “great friend and bandmate,” who passed away after a short illness at his home during the Christmas season. Described as quiet, intense, intuitive, and immensely creative, Perry, affectionately known as ‘teddy,’ played a significant role in The Cure’s journey.
Joining The Cure as a full-time member in 1990, Perry contributed his talents on guitar, six-string bass, and keyboard on various albums like The Wish, Wild Mood Swings, Bloodflowers, Acoustic Hits, and The Cure. He also participated in over 400 live shows spanning 14 years.
After reuniting with the band in 2022, Perry took part in 90 shows, including some of the band’s most memorable performances, leading up to a special concert in London on November 1, 2024. The band expressed their heartfelt condolences to Perry’s family and emphasized his significant impact on The Cure.
Perry initially joined The Cure’s road crew in 1984 under his brother’s supervision before transitioning into roles such as tour manager, guitar technician, and personal assistant to frontman Robert Smith. Despite his departure from the band in 2005, Perry later reconciled with them, participating in their Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction in 2019 and officially rejoining the group in 2022 for their Shows of a Lost World tour.
His most recent appearance was at The Cure’s 2024 concert at London’s Troxy. The band’s latest album release in November 2024 marked their first in 16 years, with frontman Robert Smith expressing how the music created a vision for the entire album.
Perry was set to be part of The Cure’s upcoming UK tour, which includes headline outdoor shows in various cities and festival appearances at notable events. Fans worldwide expressed their sorrow over Perry’s passing, reminiscing about his kindness and the impact of his music with The Cure.
The current lineup of The Cure consists of Robert Smith (65), Simon Gallup (64), Roger O’Donnell (69), Jason Cooper (57), and Reeves Gabrels (68).