The rock world is in mourning following the news that Rick Savage, the legendary bassist of Def Leppard, has passed away at the age of 63. A statement from the band confirmed his death, citing a brief but serious illness.
Rick Savage, affectionately known as “Sav” by fans and bandmates alike, was a founding member of Def Leppard. His intricate bass lines and magnetic stage presence helped catapult the band to international stardom in the 1980s. Hits like Pour Some Sugar on Me, Hysteria, and Love Bites remain iconic anthems that defined a generation of rock music.
The band’s statement read: “It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our brother and friend, Rick Savage. Sav was a cornerstone of Def Leppard, whose talent, humor, and warmth touched countless lives. We ask for privacy as we navigate this heartbreaking loss.”
Sources close to Savage say he had been quietly battling an undisclosed illness for several months but chose to keep his health struggles private. Despite his condition, Savage remained dedicated to his craft and was last seen performing with Def Leppard during their summer tour earlier this year. Fans recall his passion and resilience, traits that defined both his music and his life.
Born in Sheffield, England, in 1960, Savage’s love for music began at a young age. Originally a football player with aspirations of going pro, he pivoted to music after an injury, co-founding Def Leppard in 1977. Over the decades, he became a symbol of perseverance, overcoming personal challenges, including Bell’s palsy, which partially paralyzed his face in the 1990s.
Tributes have poured in from fans, fellow musicians, and industry leaders. Rock icon Nikki Sixx called Savage “a true innovator and a kind soul,” while Queen’s Brian May described him as “a gentle giant whose music will live forever.”
Funeral arrangements are expected to be private, but fans worldwide have already begun organizing tributes, from candlelit vigils to social media campaigns celebrating his life and legacy.
Rick Savage’s bass lines will forever echo in the hearts of Def Leppard fans. As the band wrote in their final farewell: “Though he’s gone, his music will never fade. Rest in peace, Sav.”