Joey Molland: A Rock Legacy
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Joey Molland, born Joseph Charles Molland on June 21, 1947, in Edge Hill, Liverpool, England, was a distinguished English songwriter and rock guitarist. Growing up in Liverpool, a city with a rich musical heritage, he was naturally drawn to music from a young age. He began his professional career in 1965 with The Masterminds, a local band that released a rendition of Bob Dylan’s “She Belongs to Me.” This early exposure set the stage for his future endeavors in the rock scene.
Gary Walker & The Rain
In 1967, Molland joined Gary Walker (formerly of The Walker Brothers) to form Gary Walker & The Rain. The group found particular success in Japan, releasing the album Album No. 1 in 1968. Despite their overseas popularity, the band struggled to gain traction in the UK, leading to their dissolution in 1969.
Joining Badfinger
Joey Molland,’s most significant career move came in 1969 when he joined Badfinger, a band signed to The Beatles’ Apple Records. Badfinger had already tasted success with hits like Come and Get It, penned by Paul McCartney. Molland’s addition to the lineup coincided with the band’s golden era, contributing to albums such as No Dice (1970) and Straight Up (1971). His guitar work and songwriting skills were integral to the band’s signature power-pop sound.
Collaborations with The Beatles
During his time with Badfinger, Molland had the opportunity to collaborate with members of The Beatles. He played on George Harrison’s acclaimed solo album All Things Must Pass and participated in The Concert for Bangladesh, a pioneering benefit concert organized by Harrison. Additionally, Molland contributed to John Lennon‘s Imagine album, notably on the track Jealous Guy.
Challenges and Tragedies
Despite their musical achievements, Badfinger faced severe financial and managerial challenges. Mismanagement led to financial ruin, and the band members struggled with the pressures of the industry. Tragically, these hardships contributed to the suicides of bandmates Pete Ham in 1975 and Tom Evans in 1983. These events cast a long shadow over the band’s legacy and profoundly affected Molland.
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Post-Badfinger and Solo Career
After leaving Badfinger in 1974, Joey Molland, formed Natural Gas with former Humble Pie drummer Jerry Shirley. The band released a self-titled album in 1976 and toured with Peter Frampton. Despite initial promise, Natural Gas disbanded due to organizational issues.
Molland embarked on a solo career, releasing After the Pearl in 1983. He continued to produce solo work, including The Pilgrim (1992), This Way Up (2001), Return to Memphis (2013), and Be True to Yourself (2020). His solo projects allowed him to explore different musical styles while maintaining his rock roots.
Reviving Badfinger’s Legacy
In the early 1980s, Molland and Tom Evans attempted to revive Badfinger, releasing the albums Airwaves (1979) and Say No More (1981). However, internal conflicts led to the band’s final dissolution. Despite these challenges, Molland remained dedicated to preserving Badfinger’s legacy, often performing under the moniker “Joey Molland’s Badfinger.”
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Personal Life
Joey Molland, married Kathie Lee, a native of Minnesota, in 1972, and the couple had two sons. They remained together until Kathie’s sudden passing in 2009. In his later years, Molland was in a long-term relationship with Mary Joyce. Despite personal losses and health challenges, his passion for music never waned.
Final Years and Death
In late 2024, Molland faced serious health issues, including a severe bacterial infection and pneumonia, compounded by diabetes. Despite medical interventions, his condition worsened, leading to his passing on March 1, 2025, at the age of 77. He was surrounded by family at the time of his death.
Legacy
Joey Molland’s contributions to rock music, particularly through his work with Badfinger, have left an indelible mark on the industry. His collaborations with iconic artists and his resilience in the face of personal and professional challenges serve as a testament to his enduring spirit and talent. Molland’s music continues to inspire and resonate with fans worldwide.
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