Hollies star Eric dies at 75
ERIC Haydock, a founder member of hit-makers The Hollies, has died at 75.
Bandmates paid tributes to him as “one of the finest bass players on the planet”.
Haydock, born in Stockport, Greater Manchester, is survived by the four other original group members – Graham Nash, Allan Clarke, Tony Hicks and Bobby Elliott.
Drummer Elliott said he would “listen enthralled” to the “masterful” Haydock playing his six-string electric bass during their BBC and Abbey Road recording sessions.”
Haydock was one of the first musicians to play the instrument also known as a Fender Bass VI.
Elliott said they created the distinctive three-part Hollies harmony behind hits including He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother, The Air That I Breathe, Just One Look and Bus Stop.
He added: “On the early package tours, Dave Clark, the Kinks and artists of the period would watch from the wings as we effortlessly rocked the screaming theatre audiences into a frenzy.”
The band formed in Manchester in 1962 and had more than 30 singles in the British charts.
Haydock left the group in July 1966 after a dispute between the band and their manager over what was seen as excessive management fees. He was replaced by Bernie Calvert.
Haydock went on to live in Padfield, Derbyshire, where locals posted online tributes following his death on Saturday.
One said: “I have very fond memories of our long chats and dog walks.” Another wrote: “Very sad to hear the news of the passing of former Padfield resident and former bass guitarist...Eric Haydock.
“Eric kept us entertained on numerous occasions and he always had a tale to tell.”
Haydock and the other band members were inducted into the Rock ’n’ Roll Hall of Fame, in New York, in March 2010.