Francis Buchholz, Historic Scorpions Bassist, Passes Away
The rock world mourns a significant loss. The family of Francis Buchholz announced that the musician passed away on January 22, 2026, at the age of 71, after battling cancer. He departed in peace and surrounded by love, according to the message they shared on social media, where they also expressed their deep grief. 🎸
A Defining Career with Scorpions
Francis Buchholz joined the Scorpions lineup in 1973 and remained with the group until 1992. This period encompasses the band's greatest international projection. His bass contribution was key to recording essential albums that marked an era.
Iconic albums featuring his participation:- Fly to the Rainbow (1974) - One of his first works with the lineup.
- Love at First Sting (1984) - The album that catapulted them to global fame.
- Blackout (1982) and Crazy World (1990) - Pillars of the band's hard rock sound.
His bass sounded in timeless anthems like "Rock You Like a Hurricane", "Wind of Change", "Still Loving You" and "No One Like You".
Later Activities and Tributes
After leaving Scorpions, Buchholz did not abandon music. He collaborated on other projects, such as Michael Schenker's Temple of Rock. Upon the news of his death becoming known, the band and numerous colleagues expressed their sadness and recognized his fundamental role in building the group's success.
Reactions and Legacy:- Scorpions and musicians thanked the constant support of fans throughout his entire career.
- They highlighted that his musical contribution was indispensable in defining the band's characteristic sound.
- His passing leaves a void in the German rock scene.
The Sound That Endures
Although the wind of change continues to blow, Francis Buchholz's bass will no longer mark the rhythm live. However, his legacy remains alive through the recordings he helped create, which continue to inspire new generations of rock lovers. His work with Scorpions is forever inscribed in music history. 🎶