Francis Buchholz obit

Scorpions and Michael Schenker bassist Francis Buchholz dies aged 71

 He was not on the list.

German bassist Francis Buchholz, best known for his two-decade tenure with Scorpions and being a member of Michael Schenker's Temple of Rock, has sadly died aged 71.

A post from Buchholz’ wife Hella, and his children Sebastian, Louisa and Marietta confirmed he died on Thursday (22nd January) following a private battle with cancer.

“It is with overwhelming sadness and heavy hearts we share the news that our beloved Francis passed away yesterday after a private battle with cancer. He departed this world peacefully, surrounded by love,” Francis Buchholz’ family wrote.

“Our hearts are shattered. Throughout his fight with cancer, we stayed by his side, facing every challenge as a family - exactly the way he taught us.

“To his fans around the world - we want to thank you for your unwavering loyalty, your love, and the belief you placed in him throughout his incredible journey. You gave him the world, and he gave you his music in return. Though the strings have gone silent, his soul remains in every note he played and in every life he touched.”

Sharing the Facebook post, former Scorpions guitarist Uli Jon Roth said: "Very saddening! We were friends. My heartfelt condolences to Hella and family!"

Born in Hanover on 19th February 1954, Buchholz was a member of Dawn Road with Uli Jon Roth, Jürgen Rosenthal, and Achim Kirschning in the early 70s before all four band members joined Scorpions alongside Klaus Meine and Rudolf Schenker.

A pivotal member of Scorpions during their most commercially successful era, Buchholz performed on every album from 1974’s ‘Fly to the Rainbow’ to 1990’s ‘Crazy World’.

Seminal Scorpions songs Buchholz performed on include 'Rock You Like a Hurricane', 'Still Loving You', and the enduring anthem 'Wind of Change'.

In 2012, Buchholz toured with former Scorpions lead guitarist Michael Schenker on the Temple of Rock - Lovedrive Reunion Tour alongside former Scorpions drummer Herman Rarebell, with ex-Rainbow vocalist Doogie White and MSG's Wayne Findley on guitars and keys.

He also performed on two albums with Michael Schenker's Temple of Rock, 2013’s ‘Bridge the Gap’ and 2015’s ‘Spirit on a Mission.’

Buchholz’s other musical ventures include Phantom 5 and Dreamtide, and in 1996 he published the book Bass Magic.