Influential Prog Guitarist Allan Holdsworth Passes Away at 70

Guitarist Allan Holdsworth, an influential player in the prog, jazz and fusion worlds, has passed away at the age of 70.

Holdsworth played with ‘Igginbottom, Nucleus, Tempest, Soft Machine, Gong, U.K., Bill Bruford (of King Crimson) and more, but came to be best known and appreciated for his work as a solo artist. Several prominent guitarists in the metal community, including John Petrucci, Vernon Reid and Joe Satriani, cite Holdsworth as a major influence on their playing.

Holdsworth’s daughter Louise broke the news in a post to Facebook earlier today:

“It is with heavy hearts that we notify everyone of the passing of our beloved father. We would appreciate privacy and time while we grieve the loss of our dad, grandad, friend and musical genius. We will update close friends and family when service arrangements have been made and will notify the public of an open memorial service, which all would be welcome. We are undeniably still in shock with his unexpected death and cannot begin to put into words the overwhelming sadness we are experiencing. He is missed tremendously. Louise, Sam, Emily & Rori.”

Wishing the Holdsworth family all the best from everyone at MetalSucks.