Pete Way dead: UFO founder and bassist dies aged 69

UFO bass player and Pete Way has died aged 69.

Force It hitmaker Pete died shortly before midday on August 14 after suffering “life threatening injuries” in an accident earlier this summer.

The musicians sad death was confirmed on his official Facebook page today.

The statement shared onto the social media page read: “Iconic bass player Pete Way founder of UFO, Waysted and, latterly, The Pete Way Band has died.

“He sustained life threatening injuries in an accident two months ago but fought hard until finally succumbing to those injuries at 11.35am BST today. His wife, Jenny, was at his side.

"Pete Way was a much loved and highly regarded figure among rock fans, critics and fellow musicians alike.

"Best known for his work with UFO, Pete’s energetic live performances were at the heart of the band’s countless world tours.

"His melodic bass lines underpinned the catalogue of enduring rock classics upon which UFO’s reputation and legacy were founded. Pete’s post UFO work included collaborating with Fast Eddie Clarke from Motörhead - the two putting together Fastway with Humble Pie drummer Jerry Shirley and bassist for his long time friend, Ozzy Osbourne.

"He then put together his own band Waysted. Pete’s keen ear for song arrangements have also seen him serve as producer for popular hard rock acts such as Twisted Sister and the Cockney Rejects. Pete had recently finished a solo album, Walking On The Edge with producer Mike Clink (Guns n Roses Appetite For Destruction amongst many more.)

"He had a biography published “A Fast Ride Out Of Here” in 2017 and an album “Amphetamine” which is currently out on Cargo Records.

“Pete is survived by two daughters, Zowie and Charlotte and his younger brother, Neill.”

Following the post being set live a number of fans took to the comments to share their sadness at the news.

One upset music fan typed: "Wow so sad Was great guy, loved playing soccer with him and hanging with him when he lived in Columbus RIP Pete."

A second typed: "I was lucky to see him play many times, and even luckier to spend a few minutes talking with him at half time at a Rush gig. He was a lovely guy. RIP."

Others added: "Probably the most iconic bassist of his era. Will never be forgotten. Rest In Peace..." and "Very sad and UFO was one of the bands that made me pick up a guitar in the 1st place. RIP."

Pete helped start UFO in 1968 and went on to play in the group for 31 years.

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