To make sure you never miss out on your favourite NEW stories, we're happy to send you some reminders

Click 'OK' then 'Allow' to enable notifications

‘Dream Weaver’ Gary Wright dies aged 80
Featured Image Credit: Allen Berezovsky/Getty Images/ YouTube / RUSS SWEENEYFILMS

‘Dream Weaver’ Gary Wright dies aged 80

Tributes have been pouring in on social media for American musician and composer Gary Wright

Tributes have been pouring in on social media for American rock and pop musician Gary Wright.

Wright, best known for hits 'Dream Weaver' and 'Love is Alive' has passed away - his death confirmed by his son, Dorian, to Variety and The Guardian.

His other son, Justin, told TMZ the star passed away on the morning of Monday (4 September), at the age of 80 at his home in Palos Verdes Estates, California.

Wright had previously been diagnosed with both Parkinson's disease and Lewy body dementia and according to Justin, his symptoms had significantly worsened in the last year.

Gary Wright has passed away at the age of 80.
Getty Images/ Scott Dudelson

Wright was a member of English rock band Spooky Tooth which formed in 1967.

After the band release of album Ceremony in December, 1969, Wright left the group and focused on a solo career.

In 1975 he released his third solo album The Dream Weaver - which contained his first breakthrough hit, 'Dream Weaver'. The song went on to reach the second spot on the Billboard chart in the US the following year.

Wright also collaborated with The Beatles musician George Harrison, playing the keyboard on Harrison's 1970 album All Things Must Pass.

Prior to his career as a musician, Wright was a child actor, appearing in television, on radio commercials and even on broadway.

Wright was a member of Spooky Tooth.
Getty Images/ Paul Natkin

Tributes have rained in on X for Wright as well as fans offering their condolences to his family.

Fellow musician Stephen Bishop wrote: "It is with great sadness that I received the news of my dear friend Gary Wright's passing. The attached photos hold precious memories from the very first and last time we shared the stage together, alongside our mutual musical pal John Ford Coley.

"Gary's vibrant personality and exceptional talent made every moment together truly enjoyable. His legacy will live on for many years to come. I will always cherish the warmth and kindness shown to me by Gary and his wife Rose, and I will forever hold dear the stories he shared with me about days gone by.

"My heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and fans during this difficult time."

Stephen Bishop took to X to commemorate the star.
X/@BishSongs

Music publicist Eric Alper tweeted: "Sad news in the world of music. Gary Wright, the musical genius behind hits like 'Dream Weaver' and 'Love is Alive,' has passed away after a courageous battle with Parkinson's. His timeless music will forever live on, touching the hearts of generations."

Another user commented: "Sad to hear the passing of Gary Wright. Dream Weaver was such a smash in 1976 and once again in 1992 because of the film Wayne's World. He was also my parents neighbor in Palos Verdes and a really nice dude."

A third resolved: "Thank you Gary for all the music that you gave us. So much joy and happiness that your songs created. Rest in peace. Once again, thank you."

If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact Cruse Bereavement Care via their national helpline on 0808 808 1677.

Topics: Celebrity, Music, Social Media