Perry Bamonte, The Cure’s Guitarist and Keyboardist, Passes Away at 65

Remembering Perry Bamonte, a creative force in The Cure, who died aged 65 after a brief illness at home over Christmas.

A Beloved Member of The Cure’s Legacy

When you think of The Cure, you might picture Robert Smith’s iconic voice and moody guitar riffs. But behind those unforgettable sounds was a musician who quietly shaped the band’s magic for decades—Perry Bamonte. Known affectionately as “Teddy,” Bamonte was more than just a guitarist and keyboardist; he was a warm-hearted and vital part of The Cure’s story.

The news of his passing on December 26, 2025, hit the music world with a somber note. The announcement on The Cure’s official website confirmed that Perry died after a short illness at home during Christmas, leaving fans and bandmates alike mourning the loss of their great friend and creative companion.

“Quiet, intense, intuitive, constant and hugely creative,” reads the tribute. “Teddy was a warm-hearted and vital part of The Cure story. Our thoughts and condolences are with all his family. He will be very greatly missed.” Those words capture the essence of a man who wasn’t always in the spotlight but whose artistry was deeply felt in every chord and melody.

From Road Crew to Full Band Member

Bamonte’s journey with The Cure wasn’t through the front door. Born Perry Archangelo Bamonte in London on September 3, 1960, he initially joined the band as part of the road crew in 1984. His brother Daryl had been appointed the tour manager, which opened the door for Perry to become Robert Smith’s guitar technician and personal assistant. Talk about an insider’s pass!

His transition from behind the scenes to center stage came in 1990, when keyboardist Roger O’Donnell left the band. Perry stepped in as a full-time member, playing both guitar and keyboards—skills honed with help from Smith’s sister Janet—as well as occasionally handling six-string bass and percussion. It’s a testament to his versatility and musicianship that he could wear so many hats.

He contributed to some of The Cure’s most beloved albums, starting with 1992’s Wish and continuing through to 2000’s Bloodflowers. Though he was dismissed in 2005, his connection to the band never truly faded.

“Perry Bamonte has passed away.” – The Cure’s Official Announcement

A Musician Beyond The Cure

After parting ways with The Cure in 2005, Bamonte didn’t stop making music. In 2012, he joined the band Love Amongst Ruin, a group featuring members from Placebo and Julian Cope’s ensemble. This move showed his adaptability and passion, continuing to create and perform alongside other seasoned musicians.

Rekindling the old flame, Perry rejoined The Cure in 2019 for their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame—a proud moment for any artist. And in 2022, he officially rejoined the band, hitting the road for the Shows Of A Lost World tour, delighting fans with his familiar presence and sound.

Their recent London show at the Troxy in November 2024 was immortalized in the concert film The Show Of A Lost World, allowing fans to relive that magical night.

Touring and Future Plans Cut Short

Sadly, Bamonte passed before he could participate in The Cure’s upcoming 2026 UK and European tour dates. These shows were set to include headline stops in Manchester, Cardiff, Dublin, Belfast, Edinburgh, and Berlin, plus festival performances at Isle of Wight, Primavera Sound Barcelona, Rock Werchter, Open’er, Øya, and Rock En Seine.

It’s hard not to feel the weight of what might have been, but his legacy will surely live on in every note played and every fan’s memory.

Remembering Perry Bamonte: More Than a Musician

As a fan, I remember watching The Cure's concerts and feeling the subtle energy that Bamonte brought to the stage. He wasn't the flashiest member, but his contributions gave depth and texture to the band’s ethereal soundscapes. His time as a multi-instrumentalist for one of the most enduring alternative bands is nothing short of legendary.

From roadie to bandmate, and from Hall of Fame honoree to touring mainstay, Perry Bamonte's story is one of passion, dedication, and an artist who always put his heart into the music.

FAQ

• What roles did Perry Bamonte play in The Cure?
  Perry was a guitarist and keyboardist, occasionally playing six-string bass and percussion.
• When did Perry Bamonte join The Cure as an official member?
  He became a full-time member in 1990 after keyboardist Roger O’Donnell left.
• Which albums feature Perry Bamonte's work?
  He played on albums from Wish (1992) through Bloodflowers (2000).
• Did Perry Bamonte rejoin The Cure after leaving in 2005?
  Yes, he rejoined for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction in 2019 and officially rejoined in 2022.
• Was Perry involved in The Cure’s last album?
  No, Songs Of A Lost World was recorded before he rejoined the band.

If you’re inspired by Perry Bamonte’s musical journey and want to celebrate his legacy, check out our collection of iconic album cover posters at Architeg Prints. It’s a heartfelt way to honor timeless music moments.