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Singer-songwriter Gary Wright, best known for his groundbreaking album "The Dream Weaver," has died. He was 80. Wright died Monday at his home in Palos Verdes Estates.

Born in April 1943 in New Jersey, Wright found some success as the keyboardist for the British hard rock band Spooky Tooth. Following the group's disbandment, Wright devoted his efforts to his solo music career, releasing the albums "Extraction" and "Footprint" in 1970 and 1971, respectively.

Wright’s 1975 album "The Dream Weaver" became his breakthrough hit, boasting a pair of No. 2 singles in 1976: "Dream Weaver" and "Love is Alive." The album was also recognized as one of the first rock albums to feature only synthesizers. The album went on to sell 2 million copies.

Wright also lent his musical talents to his peers. The singer played keyboards on Beatles guitarist George Harrison's 1970 album "All Things Must Pass."

 

Aw damn. RIP. I remember seeing him on Rock Concert with a strap-on keyboard that looked absurdly huge; in retrospect I bet it was an ARP 2600 keyboard.

Thinking of Gary, I always found it funny-
70s: live drums, synth bass = COOL
80s: live bass, synth drums = COOL

 

Amazing songwriter. Although I liked the Dreamweaver album my favourite album is Witness by Spooky Tooth from '73. He wrote most of the tracks. He and Mike Harrison provided the amazing vocals.
This is timeless and so good.

 

Last edited: Sep 7, 2023

Gary Wright's work with Spooky Tooth was my favorite of his output.

 

great musician... great loss...R.I.P

 

I'm going to have to listen to Spooky Tooth today in honor of Gary. His vocal for Love is Alive on Dream Weaver always blew me away.