Trevor Bolder Dies: David Bowie's Spiders From Mars, Uriah Heap Bassist Dead at 62, Pancreatic Cancer

Trevor Bolder might not be a household name, but his musicianship is legendary and influential. Known as a session bassist mostly, Trevor Bolder was responsible for some of the more iconic basslines incorporated with David Bowie, Uriah Heep, The Rats and The Spiders From Mars. The 62-year-old musician was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and underwent both surgery and chemotherapy earlier this year to combat the disease. Unfortunately the glam rock bassist died yesterday.

Bolder played bass for David Bowie from 1971 to 1973 and appeared on four legendary albums: Hunky Dory, The Rise And Fall Of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders From Mars, Aladdin Sane and Pin Ups.

Upon hearing of his friend's death, David Bowie stated, "Trevor was a wonderful musician and a major inspiration for whichever band he was working with. But he was foremostly a tremendous guy, a great man."

On the band's official website, Uriah Heep said:

"It is with great sadness that Uriah Heep announce the passing of our friend the amazing Trevor Bolder, who has passed away after his long fight with cancer. Trevor was an all time great, one of the outstanding musicians of his generation, and one of the finest and most influential bass players that Britain ever produced.

"His long time membership of Uriah Heep brought the band's music, and Trevor's virtuosity and enthusiasm, to hundreds of thousands of fans across the world. He joined the band in 1976 and, barring one short break, was a fixture until his ill health forced him to take a step back early this year. Prior to joining Heep he was a founder and ever-present member of David Bowie's legendary Spiders From Mars band, performing on all of their key albums and at countless shows. He also performed with Wishbone Ash, Cybernauts and The Rats."