Jon Bon Jovi pays tribute to rock icon Francis Buchholz of Scorpions after his death at 71
Jon Bon Jovi has remembered a rock icon following his death at the age of 71.
Rock legend Francis Buchholz, has died at the age of 71, with music icon, Jon Bon Jovi paying tribute. The German bassist for hard rock outfit, Scorpions, is said to have lost his “private battle” with cancer on Thursday (January 22).
Breaking the news to fans with a message posted to social media, wife Hella and children, Sebastian, Louisa and Marietta, wrote: "It is with overwhelming sadness and heavy hearts we share the news that our beloved Francis passed away yesterday after a private battle with cancer. He departed this world peacefully, surrounded by love.
“Our hearts are shattered. Throughout his fight with cancer, we stayed by his side, facing every challenge as a family - exactly the way he taught us.
“To his fans around the world - we want to thank you for your unwavering loyalty, your love, and the belief you placed in him throughout his incredible journey. You gave him the world, and he gave you his music in return. Though the strings have gone silent, his soul remains in every note he played and in every life he touched.”
Following the passing of Francis, American singer and songwriter, Jon Bon Jovi posted his own tribute. Sharing an epic picture of himself posing with the band and a collection others, sporting outrageous outfits and hairstyles, Jon wrote: “I’ll never forget opening for the Scorpions. Thx for the memories. You’ll be missed.”
Bon Jovi supported Scorpions during their Love at First Sting tour in the United States, from April 1984, through to the summer of the same year. Opening on April 20 in Reno they also played a memorable performance at Madison Square Garden on June 7.
The band also released a statement to Scorpions official social media channels, saying: “We have just received the very sad news that our longtime friend and bass player, Francis Buchholz, has passed away. His legacy with the band will live on forever, and we will always remember the many good times we have shared together. Our hearts go out to Hella, his family, and friends. R.I.P. Francis. Klaus, Rudolf, Matthias.”
Francis appeared on 12 albums during the Scorpions peak from 1973 to 1992. After leaving the band, he was a member of Michael Schenker's Temple of Rock. He lived in Hanover with his wife Hella who shared son Sebastian, and twin daughters Louisa and Marietta together.