Iconic Rock Band Founder Passes Away at Age 71
David Thomas, the mastermind behind the influential rock band Pere Ubu, passed away at the age of 71. The news was shared through a heartfelt message on the official Pere Ubu Facebook page which mentioned that Thomas died following an extended illness. The post highlighted that he took his last breath in Brighton & Hove in the U.K, surrounded by his wife and youngest stepdaughter. The announcement also disclosed that the legendary figure had a profound connection to his hometown in Pennsylvania, where he wished to be laid to rest in a barn.
Although born in Miami, Thomas spent much of his formative years in Cleveland where he kickstarted his musical journey by forming the punk ensemble Rocket from the Tombs in 1974. Despite their short existence and lack of official studio releases, the band gained substantial recognition for their live performances. Thomas later embarked on the path to create Pere Ubu, a post-punk collective inspired by the works of Alfred Jarry. Despite facing the loss of Rocket guitarist Peter Laughner in 1977, Thomas propelled Pere Ubu through various lineup changes, spanning across the decades, from the 1980s to the 90s and beyond.
While Pere Ubu did not achieve mainstream commercial success, their eclectic blend of genres from punk to pop, folk, and avant-garde styles garnered them a dedicated fan base and inspired a multitude of artists such as The Pixies, Joy Division, and Bauhaus. Some of their most iconic tracks include “30 Seconds Over Tokyo,” “Final Solution,” “Love Love Love,” and “Waiting for Mary.” Apart from his involvement in these bands, Thomas also explored his creativity through numerous solo projects.
The Facebook post revealed that Thomas was actively working on what he anticipated would be his final album. The band pledged to complete the album, ensuring that his final musical endeavors are shared with the world. Additionally, Thomas had left instructions for the preservation and organization of live show tapes on their official bandcamp page. His autobiography, which was nearing completion, will also be finalized in his honor. Pere Ubu’s Patreon, designed to foster a community, will persist under the guidance of ‘communex.’
David Thomas’ legacy and impact on the music industry are undeniable and will continue to reverberate through generations of artists to come. His pioneering spirit and dedication to his craft have solidified his place as a luminary in the realm of alternative rock and experimental music.