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Primal Scream star Martin Duffy dies aged 55

Martin Duffy has died aged 55.

The Primal Scream keyboardist – who also played in the likes of Felt and the Charlatans – has passed away, as confirmed by his former bandmate Tim Burgess.

On Tuesday (20.12.22), The Charlatans frontman tweeted: “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.”

The Birmingham born musician joined indie band Felt in 1985 when he was 16 years old after frontman Lawrence posted an advert in a Virgin records store in the city.

The notice – which called for a guitarist – read “Do You Want To Be A Rock ‘N’ Roll Star?”, and someone recommended Duffy.

He later joined Primal Scream, initially playing on the band’s first two albums – 1987’s ‘Sonic Flower Groove’ and 1989’s self titled record – before becoming a full time member at the end of the year.

After Charlatans’ founding member Rob Collins died, Duffy joined the group at the last minute when they supported Oasis at Knebworth, and he played on their 1997 LP ‘Tellin’ Stories’.

The musician’s family and Primal Scream are yet to comment on his death.

Tributes have poured in from fans after Tim’s emotional post.

One fan replied: “RIP Duffy, seen the Scream many a time and he was a legend. Lots of love to all his family, band mates and to you Tim.”

Another admirer added: “What a musician he was; and by all accounts a lovely soul too. So sorry for your loss x”

Others were saddened by such a tragic loss so soon after the death of The Specials frontman Terry Hall.

A fan tweeted: “Oh no – more terrible news. A tremendous talent.”