Gilson Lavis, the classic drummer for Squeeze and later a member of Jools Holland’s Rhythm and Blues Orchestra, has died at the age of 74.
Lavis’ passing was reported on Thursday by Holland, who wrote on Facebook, “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. 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.”
Born David Leslie Gilson Lavis on June 27th, 1951, in Bedfordshire, England, the drummer got his start touring with legendary musicians Chuck Berry, Jerry Lee Lewis and Dolly Parton.
He joined Squeeze in 1976, replacing original drummer Paul Gunn, and remained with the band until he was let go from the band in 1992 as he battled alcoholism. During his tenure in Squeeze, he played on all their albums from their 1978 self-titled debut through 1991’s Play.
Lavis’ drumming can be heard on Squeeze’s biggest hits, including “Cool for Cats,” “Tempted,” and “Black Coffee in Bed,” among others.
Following his departure from Squeeze, Lavis started performing with fellow former Squeeze member Jools Holland, as well as the latter’s Jools Holland’s Rhythm and Blues Orchestra.
Later in life, Lavis took up painting, telling Lincolnshire Life in 2015, “The motivation of being a pop star or even being rich has gone, so now it’s seeing people enjoy themselves at shows but yes, I really enjoy my art. I still put my all into every show – doing less than that and you are cheating yourself and the audience but when I’m painting I’m truly at peace.”
Our condolences go out to Gilson Lavis’ family, friends, and bandmates during this difficult time. Hear his playing on a couple of Squeeze’s classic hits below.
