Edward Reekers (Kayak, Ayreon) passed away on October 7, 2025

As we have just learned, the Dutch musician Edward Reekers died of cancer on October 7, 2025 – he had announced his illness publicly in August.

Born on May 25, 1957, Edward Reekers was already active as a keyboardist and guitarist in a band called Suzy Cream Cheese during his school days, having started singing at the age of three. After graduating from school, the band was renamed Tacit, and Edward sent recordings of his first album, "Mademoiselle Michelle," to the art rock band Kayak, where he was hired as vocalist and participated in the recording of the 1978 album "Phantom of the Night." He left the band in 1981.

Afterward, in addition to several of his own releases, he devoted himself to many musical projects (including the 1995 Langnese song "So schmeckt der Sommer!"), dubbed films, and series. In 2004, he returned to Kayak. Many remember Edward as one of the singers with Ayreon, for example on the Universal Migrator and in live shows.

This is what Arjen Lucassen wrote (translated here):
"My friend Edward Reekers has lost his battle with cancer. He is no longer here... it's so hard to imagine. Of course, we all know that he was an incredibly talented singer with a golden voice. But more than that: he was an incredibly nice guy! Always positive and always so enthusiastic about music. We missed him so much at the last Ayreon concerts. But now... Ayreon's voice is no longer here. Many warm hugs to his family. And to all of you." Edward lives on in our hearts and minds."

And this is what Kayak reported (also in German translation here):
"It is with deep sadness that we inform you that Edward Reekers has passed away. His contribution to the band's legacy is impressive. We will miss him. Rest in peace."
There's nothing more to add – but his legacy will live on through his music.

R.I.P. Edward

Edward Reekers - The Present Day

Edward Reekers - We Live To Die

In Memory of Edward Reekers | Motel Westcoast

 

Last edited: Oct 13, 2025 at 10:54 AM

Dear Edward. Thank you for your incredible voice. With Kayak and in your solo career you made the most beautiful songs which we'll never forget. R.I.P.