Damo Suzuki, Can vocalist, dead at 74
Can vocalist Damo Suzuki has sadly passed away. Suzuki was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2014 and was given only a slight chance of survival. After continuous treatment for a decade, Suzuki’s death was confirmed at the age of 74.
Suzuki first made a name for himself by busking around Europe in the ‘60s. These performances allowed him to develop a unique vocal style. Eventually, he was drawn to the German experimental group Can.
Suzuki worked on iconic albums such as 1971’s Tago Mago. His singing style broke all known boundaries as he changed how frontmen could operate thanks to his ability to emote and develop melody with a non-verbal style.
He managed to lead the group through their peak as his contribution to the band meant that the songs were more structured, but they didn’t lose their experimental style. His ability to take the disjointed and exciting sound that Can was famous for but make it more accessible led to the bands’ increase in popularity and the creation of some of their best work.
The singer left the group in 1973, but his legacy remained as he was cemented as one of the most iconic figures in the post-punk movement.
In the latter stages of his life, Suzuki remained committed to his craft, persistently touring and forming unique groups in different locations. These groups would interpret some of Suzuki’s ideas and split shortly afterwards. The musician was never tied down to one place and continued exploring how they could better develop their sound in unique and exciting ways.
He has shared the stage with many musicians during his time touring. Tom Skinner of The Smile has said he is “Grateful that I got to share the stage with him a few years back. An unforgettable experience. What an incredible human being.”
Despite the amount he travelled and the various places he played, the stories surrounding his work in music are met with two common themes: talent and kindness. Despite the disjointed style in which he would often deliver his sound, those two elements remain consistent.
“RIP Damo Suzuki,” wrote the band American Football, “His music CAN had a huge influence on us, and seeing our friends in Defender back him up in 2003 at the Fireside Bowl in Chicago is still among the greatest shows I’ve ever seen.”
His most recent album, Arkaoda, was released in 2022, highlighting Suzuki’s commitment to his craft until the very end.
In tribute, electronic musician Robin Rimbaud wrote: “A sad farewell to Damo Suzuki (1950-2024), who between 1970 and 1973 led pioneering German band Can through its unquestionable peak, and pretty much lived on a never-ending world tour since then.”
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