News

Dave Clark Five Saxophonist Dies

Denis Payton, who played saxophone and guitar and sang backing vocals for the Dave Clark Five, has died at the age of 63. Payton and his bandmates helped launch the British Invasion in the 1960s, which culminated in the arrival of The Beatles. But The Dave Clark Five were hardly consigned to the shadows, selling over 100 millions albums (to put that in perspective, Metallica has sold "only" 90 million). The group disbanded in the '70s, and were nominated for induction in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame several weeks ago (alongside the likes of The Stooges, R.E.M. and Patti Smith).

"[Payton] had an amazing philosophy on life and will be greatly missed by me and all who knew him," said founding member Dave Clark. "Denis was extremely brave and not afraid of death." Clark reported that Payton, who had waged a long battle with cancer, had said that he didn't think he would live to see the band's induction into the Hall of Fame, but was "thrilled" by the honor. "He said, 'I know I won't be around but it was an amazing part of my life that I am very proud of.'"

The group's hits in the '60s included "Glad All Over," "Do You Love Me?" and "Bits and Pieces." They were among the first British bands to tour America.

Payton is survived by his partner of 16 years, Lindsay, two stepsons, and two sons from an earlier marriage.

--The ARTISTdirect Staff
12.19.06