Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Boon Gould death: Level 42 guitarist and founding member dead, aged 64

The guitarist was the first to leave the band in 1987

Jacob Stolworthy
Wednesday 01 May 2019 13:46 BST
Comments
Boon Gould death: Level 42 guitarist and founding member dead, aged 64

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Boon Gould, an original member of the band Level 42, has died aged 64.

Bassist and vocalist Mark King revealed the news on Twitter, writing: “It is with the heaviest of hearts that I have to tell you of the passing of our dear friend and brother Boon Gould. You are at peace now Boon, no more pain mate. Thank you for everything.”

Gould, a guitarist and saxophone player for the British group, was found dead by Dorset Police at his home on Tuesday morning. He was one of the band’s founding members.

Level 42 formed on the Isle of Wight in 1979. They had a number of successful hits during the 1980s and 1990s, including “Lessons in Love” and “Something About You”.

After several lineup changes, the band broke up in 1994 and reformed in 2001.

Boon, real name Rowland Gould, was in the band with his brother, Neil. He was the first to leave in 1987, shortly after the band had a stint supporting Madonna on her tour.

Gould left after suffering from nervous exhaustion and wanted to spend more time with his wife and children, though he remained friendly with the band, even writing lyrics for them following his departure.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in