Former Squeeze and Jools Holland drummer Gilson Lavis dead at 74
Gilson Lavis, the former drummer with Squeeze and Jools Holland’s Rhythm and Blues Orchestra, has died aged 74.
His death has been announced by Holland, who was formerly his bandmate in Squeeze. The musician and presenter shared on social media, I’m very sad to report that Gilson Lavis, my dear friend and long-standing drummer, passed away at his home in Lincolnshire last night.”
Holland’s emotional tribute continued, “On behalf of my Orchestra, Squeeze, the many musicians who have worked with and befriended Gilson over the years and all the people he has supported through the AA fellowship, I send our love and sympathy to Nikki and Gilson, his dear wife and son.”
While Lavis wasn’t a founding member of Squeeze, he joined the band in 1976 and initially served for six years until the band ended in 1982. He was part of the line-up when they reformed in 1986, but left in 1992 due to issues with alcoholism.
Lavis contributed to all of the band’s albums from the Packet of Three EP in 1977 until Play in 1991, which includes all of their most notable works, such as ‘Cool For Cats’ and ‘Up The Junction‘.
Prior to joining the group, he was already an esteemed figure in the music business, having toured with huge international stars including Dolly Parton, Chuck Berry and Jerry Lee Lewis.
Upon getting sober, Holland offered him a lifeline to perform together as a duo, which lasted for around 30 years until his retirement in late 2024.
Following his final show with Holland, the pianist took to Facebook to write last December: “Thank you to everyone who came out to our milestone and emotional shows at the Royal Albert Hall. Which marked our last on stage performances with our drummer, nuclear reactor and dear friend Gilson Lavis.”
He continued, “For nearly 50 years we have shared a stage, toured the world and made a lifetime of memories. Thank you Gilson, happy retirement. Look forward to reading your book.”
Outside of music, Lavis was also a coveted artist who had exhibitions and created portraits of icons such as Paul McCartney, The Rolling Stones, and Bob Dylan.
No cause of death has been provided.
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