Boon Gould: Level 42 founding member dies aged 64
Written by News on 01/05/2019
Rowland “Boon” Gould, a founding member of the British band Level 42, has died aged 64.
The guitarist was found dead at his home in Dorset earlier this week.
In a message on Twitter, his brother Phil, who also started the group, said: “My heart is broken.”
Level 42 bassist and vocalist Mark King said: “It is with the heaviest of hearts that I have to tell you of the passing of our dear friend and brother Boon Gould.
“Dorset Police confirmed that he was found dead at his home on Tuesday morning.
“You are at peace now Boon, no more pain mate. Thank you for everything. Mark x.”
Formed in 1979 by the Gould brothers, King and keyboard player Mike Lindup, Level 42 went on to have a string of hits in the 1980s and early 90s, including Lessons In Love, Running In The Family and Something About You.
The Gould brothers and King grew up on the Isle of Wight, playing in bands together as teenagers, and later met Lindup in London.
Boon Gould left Level 42 in 1987, just a few months before his brother. However, he continued to write lyrics and joined the band to make a guest appearance at a show in 2012.
He released two solo albums, Tin Man in 1995 and Love Kills Overtime in 2000, with the latter under the name Zen Gangsters.
Fans have been paying tribute on social media, with one saying: “A little bit of my heart just broke – I cannot imagine how you, Mike and Phil must be feeling. Rest in peace Boon, you will always be in our hearts – millions of them xxxx.”
On Facebook, scores of fans have posted messages underneath the band’s official tribute.
“Very sorry on the loss of Boon. He was an amazing talent and was one of the reasons why I loved the group,” one said.
Another said: “Level 42 were a big part of my teenage years, brought a lot of joy and inspiration to my life. RIP Boon Gould – legend.”
King and Lindup still perform with Level 42, and the band are due to play at the Cheltenham Jazz Festival on Monday.
(c) Sky News 2019: Boon Gould: Level 42 founding member dies aged 64
