The Cure’s Perry Bamonte Dies at 65

Perry Archangelo Bamonte, the talented axeman and keyboardist whose musical soul helped mold a signature sound with The Cure, has died at age 65 after an illness while at home during the Christmas holiday. His passing was confirmed with deep sadness by the band, who described him as warm-hearted, creative, and a vital presence in their story.

Perry, born on September 3, 1960, in London, had grown up with music running through his veins. He wasn't an overnight sensation, though-his earliest involvement with The Cure was humble but meaningful, working behind the scenes as part of their road crew and as a guitar technician. That experience taught him the value of dedication and teamwork long before he ever stepped fully into the spotlight.

The big break finally came his way in 1990 when he joined The Cure as a full-time member after the departure of their previous keyboardist. From then on, he was one of the most trusted voices in sound and spirit with the band, playing guitar, keyboards, and even six-string bass across several albums. Contributions to records such as Wish, Wild Mood Swings, Bloodflowers, and The Cure defined textures and moods fans had come to cherish.

What made Perry's musicianship so special wasn't technical flash, but emotional depth. He seemed to innately know exactly what each song called for: a shimmering guitar line here, a subtle keyboard flourish there; always enhancing the music, never overpowering it. It was this intuitive feel which made him beloved by bandmates and listeners alike.

In his first stretch with the band, over 14 years, Perry played more than 400 shows-a testament not only to his endurance but also to his commitment to bringing music to life onstage. For the thousands who saw him live, his presence was steady and reassuring, like a familiar friend guiding you through a landscape of sound.

Yet, as for many artists who have dedicated their whole lives to their craft, the road was not entirely smooth for Perry. In 2005, he parted ways with the band during a transition period. The separation was painful but never erased the respect and affection many had for him; by then, he was already part of the enduring legacy of The Cure.

Outside of The Cure, life for Perry was rich with creative interest. He became a respected illustrator and fly-fishing enthusiast, contributing artwork to specialty magazines, finding solace in nature’s quiet moments. These passions revealed a side of him fans didn’t often see—a considerate artist who found beauty both onstage and beyond it.

In 2019, Perry was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame along with his bandmates — a proud milestone in recognition of his role in shaping one of rock's most influential acts. That was far more than a trophy; it was an affirmation of a lifetime spent crafting songs that resonated deeply with people everywhere.

Then, the happy twist: In 2022, Perry rejoined The Cure for the Shows of a Lost World tour, getting back in front of the crowd and with the band after all those years. In this chapter, he did roughly 90 more shows, some of which many fans and critics consider among the band's best performances of late.

A quiet smile, lost in the music: That's how many fans remember seeing Perry on stage. To them, watching him play wasn't a concert as much as it was communal-one of those few moments that remind you of the comfort and personal connection great music provides when the rest of your life gets confusing

Behind the scenes, Perry was known to friends and fellow musicians as a generosity of spirit. He listened as much as he played, and his goodness carried equal weight to his genius. That gentle strength is a part of how people will remember him as much as any guitar solo or keyboard line.

Band members have shared very heartfelt comments, remembering Perry not just as a great musician but as a true friend. It feels like a tragedy indeed, but not only for his contributions to music, but for how he evoked warmth within personal connections over decades of being on the road and in studios.

For a generation of fans, songs Perry helped bring to life — like Friday I’m in Love and A Letter to Elise — soundtracked real moments of joy, heartbreak, and everything in between. That emotional bond between artist and listener is rare, and it’s a legacy that outlives any concert or record.

His death, on 24 December 2025, happened at a time when for many families, reflections and bonding had been and would still be a priority. Tributes flow in from all corners of the globe as hundreds of saddened fans go online to share their gratefulness and stories of how his music fitted into their own journeys.

Ultimately, Perry Bamonte's life was a testament to the power of authenticity: being fully there for the music and the people you love. He leaves behind not only recordings and performances but also memories that will keep on resounding in anyone who found their comfort in his sound.

His family, fellow band members, and countless fans will feel that absence profoundly. But through those songs he helped fashion, Perry's spirit will continue to resonate-a reminder that great art never truly dies.