Martin Duffy, keyboardist of Primal Scream and Charlatans, dies aged 55

The keyboardist, from Birmingham, died at the age of 55, his former bandmate Tim Burgess has confirmed.

Primal Scream and Charlatans keyboardist Martin Duffy dies aged 55 — Martin Duffy (right) alongside Primal Scream. Getty Images

20th Dec 2022

Martin Duffy, keyboardist of Primal Scream and Charlatans, has died aged 55.

News of the death was shared by former bandmate Tim Burgess who described him as “a beautiful soul”.

Burgess, frontman of The Charlatans, said on Twitter: “Another tragic loss of a beautiful soul.

“Martin Duffy stepped in to save The Charlatans when we lost Rob – he played with us at Knebworth and was a true friend.

“He toured with me in my solo band too – he was a pleasure to spend time with. Safe travels Duffy.”

Another tragic loss of a beautiful soul. Martin Duffy stepped in to save The Charlatans when we lost Rob – he played with us at Knebworth and was a true friend. He toured with me in my solo band too – he was a pleasure to spend time with. Safe travels Duffy 💔 pic.twitter.com/cvuEvvqYGa
— Tim Burgess (@Tim_Burgess) December 20, 2022

Duffy was born in Birmingham in May 1967 and began his career as a member of indie pop band Felt.

He played on the first two albums by Scottish rockers Primal Scream before joining The Charlatans in 1996 following the death of original keyboard player Rob Collins.

Duffy also contributed keys to songs by Oasis, The Chemical Brothers and Beth Orton.

No cause of death was given.

Happy Mondays singer Rowetta shared a series of heartbreak emojis, while former Oasis guitarist Paul “Bonehead” Arthurs tweeted: “Sad sad news Tim.”