Gary Wright, ‘Dream Weaver’ Singer, Dies at 80

 

Gary Wright, the musician best known for his hit singles “Dream Weaver” and “Love Is Alive,” has died. He was 80. Wright’s son Dorian confirmed the news to Variety; no cause of death was announced.

Gary Wright, the renowned musician known for his iconic singles "Dream Weaver" and "Love Is Alive," has passed away at the age of 80. His son, Dorian, confirmed the news to Variety, but no cause of death has been announced.

Wright was a highly talented singer and keyboardist who played a significant role in the music industry. As a founding member of the U.K.-based band Spooky Tooth, he made a name for himself and became a sought-after session player in the late 1960s. Notably, Wright contributed to all of George Harrison’s solo albums, including the groundbreaking "All Things Must Pass." He also played on Ringo Starr's early singles and collaborated with various artists such as Nilsson, Tim Rose, and B.B. King.

While Wright's musical contributions were vast and wide-ranging, his legacy will be defined by his mid-1970s hits, "Dream Weaver" and "Love Is Alive." These songs encapsulated the mystical, synthesizer-driven style of that era, a style also epitomized by hits like Steve Miller's "Fly Like an Eagle." Wright garnered great recognition during this period, appearing on numerous music shows, clad in satin attire and playing his keytar.

Born in New Jersey, Wright began his career as a child actor on Broadway before pursuing a career in medicine. However, his passion for music led him to continue playing with bands, including one called the New York Times. During a European tour with Traffic in 1967, Wright met Chris Blackwell, the founder of Traffic's label, Island Records. Impressed by Wright's talent, Blackwell convinced him to come to London, where he joined forces with pianist Mike Harrison and drummer Mike Kellie to form Spooky Tooth.

Although Spooky Tooth's initial albums, "It's All About" and "Spooky Two," did not achieve chart success, they generated significant buzz within the music industry. The band's members were in high demand for session work, and their songs were covered by various artists. Despite their early potential, Spooky Tooth faced a creative setback with their third album, "Ceremony," leading to Wright's departure in 1970.

Wright signed with A&M Records and released a remarkable solo album, "Extraction," in 1970. It was during this time that he crossed paths with drummer Alan White and bassist Klaus Voorman, both of whom would introduce him to the Beatles' circle. Wright's unique musical abilities landed him collaborations with George Harrison, including playing on all of Harrison's solo albums and working on Ringo Starr's early singles. Their enduring friendship included an appearance on the "Dick Cavett Show" in 1971, where Harrison backed Wright.

In 1972, Wright reunited Spooky Tooth and released two albums while continuing to collaborate with Harrison. The two musicians shared a fascination with Eastern religions and even traveled together to India in 1974.

Following the disbandment of Spooky Tooth once again, Wright relocated to New York and joined forces with power manager Dee Anthony, signing with Warner Bros. Records. In 1975, he released his first album for the label, "The Dream Weaver." The title track was inspired by his trip to India with Harrison. While the single had a slow build, it eventually became a massive hit, propelling Wright into stardom. However, it would be nearly two years before his next album, "The Light of Smiles," which did not garner the same level of success. His last charting single, "Really Wanna Know You," was released in 1981.

In the following years, Wright focused on instrumental and soundtrack work, showcasing his versatility. Though he made a surprise appearance in the film "Wayne's World" in 1992, performing a re-recorded version of "Dream Weaver," he eventually returned to more conventional rock music. He released several albums, with his final one, "Connected," being released in 2010. Additionally, Wright revived Spooky Tooth in 2004 and embarked on frequent tours as a solo artist and with Ringo Starr's All-Starr Band.

Throughout the years, Wright's songs have been continually covered and sampled by artists spanning various genres. Notably, Chaka Khan recorded a powerful rendition of "Love Is Alive" for her highly successful 1984 album, "I Feel for You." Artists such as Jay-Z and Tone-Loc have also sampled Wright's work, ensuring his creative influence continues to resonate within the music industry.

Gary Wright's contributions to music, both as a solo artist and as a collaborative force, have left an indelible mark. His soulful voice, impressive keyboard skills, and innovative sound will be remembered by fans and fellow musicians alike, cementing his legacy as a beloved and influential figure in the music world.