Randy Rand, founding bassist of the ’80s glam-metal band Autograph, has died, the group announced Tuesday in a Facebook message.
“It is with great sorrow and heavy hearts to announce the unexpected passing of our cherished friend and founding member of Autograph, Randy Rand,” the message reads. “At the time of death, Randy was surrounded by his beautiful and infinite love, Regina Rand and family.”
Autograph formed in 1983 and enjoyed its biggest success with its 1984 debut album, Sign In Please. The record featured the hit single “Turn Up the Radio,” which Rand co-wrote and which peaked at #29 on the Billboard Hot 100. The album itself reached #29 on the Billboard 200 chart, and went on to be certified Gold by the RIAA for sales of over 500,000 in the U.S.
The band broke up in 1989 but reunited in 2013. At the time of his death, Rand was the only original member still in the group. In January, the band announced that it had signed with the Frontiers label, and a new studio album is expected out soon.
The message announcing Rand’s passing also notes, “Although beyond devastated, we find some comfort and solace knowing the last couple of years have been some of his happiest as an artist and as a performer. Randy was the consummate optimist and was so excited to see the new direction, creativity and renewed energy with the band.”
The note continues, “Collectively in the last couple of years with this formation, we spent numerous hours that turned into something magical while creating an unbreakable bond few bands are fortunate enough to ever experience,” adding, [W]e will continue to honor Randy Rand, as he would want us to and honor our musical commitments and keep his legacy alive.”
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