Squeeze drummer Gilson Lavis has died aged 74.
As well as joining Jools Holland in the new wave group, Lavis was also a member of Jools Holland’s Rhythm And Blues Orchestra.
Holland was the first to report on the news of his bandmate’s passing on Thursday (06.11.25).
He penned on Instagram alongside pictures of the pair: “I’m very sad to report that Gilson Lavis my dear friend and long-standing drummer passed away at his home in Lincolnshire last night. On behalf of my Orchestra, Squeeze, the many musicians who have worked with and befriended Gilson over the years and all the people he has supported through the AA fellowship, I send our love and sympathy to Nikki and Gilson, his dear wife and son.”
No cause of death was given.
His death comes after Lavis retired from performing late last year.
The musician first made his mark in 1976 when he joined Squeeze, becoming a core member during the band’s most influential years. His drumming powered classics like Cool For Cats and Up The Junction, and he appeared on every studio album through the mid-1990s.
Before his time with Squeeze, Lavis built his reputation as a sought-after session drummer, touring with legends including Chuck Berry, Dolly Parton, and Jerry Lee Lewis.
Following his departure from Squeeze, Lavis continued performing alongside longtime collaborator Holland, contributing to his Rhythm And Blues Orchestra until late 2024.