Former Bay City Rollers guitarist Neil Henderson, who played on the Scottish band’s first chart hit before departing ahead of its global breakthrough, has died aged 73.
Henderson was a member of the pop-rock group between 1970 and 1972 and performed on its debut charting single, Keep On Dancing.
However, he left shortly after the release of the band’s second single, missing the explosion of Rollermania that would later turn the Bay City Rollers into international stars.
Although his time with the Bay City Rollers was brief, music remained a constant throughout his life.
Henderson’s daughter Shona, said he later established a recording studio at his home west of Scotland after the death of his wife, allowing him to continue pursuing the passion that had defined much of his life.
After leaving the Bay City Rollers, Henderson joined fellow Scottish outfit Middle of the Road, which had enjoyed international success with its chart-topping hit Chirpy Chirpy Cheep Cheep.
The band led tributes following news of his death, remembering him as both a musician and a friend.
In a statement, Middle of the Road described Henderson as ”our original lead guitarist, songwriter and friend”.
“We wish to send our sincere condolences to Heather and Shona, his two daughters, and all his family and friends,” the band said.
“His memory will live on with all who had the pleasure of sharing the stage with him as will his music.”
Henderson is survived by his two daughters.
His cause of his death has not been publicly released.