Terry Uttley, a founding member of Smokie has died at the age of 70 years old. A notice of the death of the bass guitarist with his picture and the inscription below, is up on the band’s website:
“Terence David Uttley 9th June 1951 – 16th December 2021
Smokie (originally spelt Smokey) are an English rock band from Bradford, Yorkshire. The band found success at home and abroad after teaming up with Mike Chapman and Nicky Chinn. They have had a number of line-up changes and were still actively touring.
“It is with very heavy hearts and tear-filled eyes that we share the news that our beloved friend and bandmate, Terry, has passed away after a short illness.
Steve, Martin, Mick and Pete are devastated and deeply saddened by his sudden and unexpected passing. Terry was a dear friend, a loving father, and was an incredible person and musician.
We all feel extremely lucky to have shared such a long lifetime and the stage with him. Peace and love to all who knew Terry, and those he touched. We will miss him dearly.
“Management asks our friends and colleagues around the world to respect the privacy of the family and band members at this time.”
Terry Uttley formed the Smokie band in 1964 with Chris Norman and Alan Silson. The musical group is famous for its hits in the UK and Australia, with the greatest being ‘Living Next Door To Alice’.
The group's most popular hit single, "Living Next Door to Alice", peaked at No. 3 on the UK Singles Chart and, in March 1977, reached No. 25 on the Billboard Hot 100, as well as going to No. 1 on the Australian singles chart. Other hit singles include "If You Think You Know How to Love Me", "Oh Carol", "Lay Back in the Arms of Someone", and "I'll Meet You at Midnight".
Website: smokie.co.uk
Facebook: www.facebook.com/smokiemusic