Bob Welch

Bob Welch

Bob Welch Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Jun. 7, 2012.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) - Bob Welch, a former member of Fleetwood Mac who went on to write songs and record several hits during a solo career, died Thursday of a self-inflicted gunshot wound, police said. He was 65.

Police spokesman Don Aaron said Welch's wife found him with a chest wound at their south Nashville home around 12:15 p.m.

Welch was a guitarist and vocalist for Fleetwood Mac from 1971 to 1974. He formed the British rock group Paris in 1976, and had hits including "Sentimental Lady" in 1977 and "Ebony Eyes" in 1978. Fleetwood Mac's Christine McVie and Lindsey Buckingham did backup vocals on "Sentimental Lady."

Aaron said Welch apparently had had health issues recently. He said a suicide note was left.

Fleetwood Mac's career took off in the mid-1970s after Welch left the band. "Dreams" was a No. 1 hit in 1977 and "Don't Stop" the same year. It later became the anthem for Bill Clinton's 1992 presidential campaign. "Hold Me" was a hit in 1982 and "Little Lies" in 1987.

Welch, a native of Los Angeles, scored his biggest hit with "Sentimental Lady," which reached No. 8 on the Billboard chart. His other singles included "Precious Love" in 1979 and "Hot Love, Cold World" in 1978.

When Fleetwood Mac was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1998, Welch was not included in the group.

"It basically comes down to the fact that they don't like me anymore," he told The Plain Dealer of Cleveland at the time. "I guess they can do what they want. I could understand it if I had been a sideman for a year. But I was an integral part of that band ... I put more of myself into that band than anything else I've ever done."

Longtime Fleetwood Mac singer Stevie Nicks told The Associated Press that Welch's death hit her hard. "The death of Bob Welch is devastating ... I had many great times with him after Lindsey and I joined Fleetwood Mac. He was an amazing guitar player - he wa s funny, sweet - and he was smart. I am so very sorry for his family and for the family of Fleetwood Mac - so, so sad ..."

Founding member Mick Fleetwood did not immediately respond to e-mails for comment Thursday.

Fleetwood Mac, started in 1967 by two former members of John Mayall's Bluesbreakers, became an enormously popular pop-oriented group in the late 1970s. Nicks' haunting vocals and Buckingham's distinctive guitar work helped propel the band's 1976 album "Rumours" to multiplatinum status.

Problems with alcohol and drugs, as well as well-publicized fights between band members, led to their breakup. Money and nostalgia helped bring the band back together, leading to successful reunion tours.

As a songwriter, Welch had his songs recorded by Kenny Rogers, Sammy Hagar, the Pointer Sisters and others.

In 1999 he released a CD, "Bob Welch Looks at Bop," a salute to bebop music in the 1940s.

In an interview with The Tennessean in 2003, Welc h said he never dreamed he'd be remembered for much.

"I just wanted to play guitar in a good band," he said. "I wanted to make the music I love. I wanted to travel the world and have adventures."

Welch also said "music is disposable now. It doesn't have the emotional impact anymore. That's sad."

He had lived in Nashville since the 1990s.

Bart Herbison, executive director of the Nashville Songwriters Association, quoted his wife Wendy as saying Welch had spinal surgery three months ago and doctors told him he would not get better, and he did not want her to have to care for an invalid.

The couple had no children. Funeral arrangements were incomplete.

AP Music Writer Nekesa Moody contributed to this story.


Copyright © 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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232 Entries

Jason Porter

December 7, 2024

God bless you Bob..

Shannon Foster

October 2, 2024

Shannon Foster

October 1, 2024

Dear Bob you are my very favorite singer, songwriter and guitarist ever! Got the best voice I´ve ever heard! I play your music pretty much every day and can´t live without your music! May God bless your soft sweet soul and can´t wait to finally meet you in heaven one day! Much love from your true fan! Shannon

George

April 30, 2023

Always loved your music, always thought so underrated.
So sad to hear about your passing...rest well Bob Welch

Sheila Basler Powell

February 10, 2023

I was 14 when the French Kiss Album came out.
I Listened to that album over & over. It made a big impression on me. At 60, I just re discovered it and still remember all the songs and a lot of the words.
Fun memory.
Bob Welch was unique & talented.
Im sorry to learn Fleetwood Mac hurt his feelings and that he suffered with health problems in the end.
Rest In Peace.

Marc Mcqueen

March 6, 2020

My condolences to the family.I have been enjoying& working at learning Ebony Eyes recently,I had the 45 when I was13 or 14.His comment that music doesn't have the emotional impact anymore,so true,&sad,as Bob noted.I only learned of his death by watching a tab lesson online last wk-end.I lost my favorite brother under similar circumstances,I will do all I can to make sure their SPIRIT LIVES ON - The more Technology& ready made solutions that are created,the HARDER LIFE IS TO DEAL WITH,- MUSIC used to be a SOCIAL SPIRIT,THAT COULD FLOAT US SAFELY ON OUR WAY, R.I.P. BOB,& THANK YOU FOR GREAT MUSIC,THAT I STILL ENJOY,& TREASURE. M.D.M.

Harry Simpson

June 7, 2017

Godspeed, and thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.

Saundra Pennington

July 6, 2014

Enjoyed your music; may you rest in peace

Chris Murray

December 29, 2012

Your music has brought me joy--your death brings me sorrow. You will be missed and fondly remembered.

Bob Goodwin

October 23, 2012

My thoughts and prayers go out to your wife and loved ones, Your joining Fleetwood Mac is what made me a Fleetwwod Mac devoted fan. I was hoping for more music from you Bob, I miss you and your unique sound, God Bless and keep you.

Ramona

October 5, 2012

Aw Bob, missing you, as a fan for 35+ years, all I can say is now there is another reason to look forward to the afterlife.. your heavenly music playing on while I finally can say, thank you for your musical gifts! Dearest Bob, while on this earth you were one of the most original, passionate, outspoken spirits.. your inspirations will shine for future generations.

October 1, 2012

What can I say...But I am so sorry to hear of this. My condolences to his family and what his wife (who found Him) must be going through.

May you find Peace

Susan Smith

September 26, 2012

My condolences to his dear family. I loved Bob's solo work..his voice was tender, yet sharp. God bless.

sean kirkland

August 1, 2012

you were a true talent without your influence fleetwood mac would not be what they are today

Alvin Taylor

August 1, 2012

I love Bob welch with all of my heart. He was one of the greatest recording artist that I have ever had the privilge of recording with. He will truly be missed.
Sincerly
Alvin Taylor, drummer for Bob Welch.

Justin Murphy

July 17, 2012

Without you Fleetwood Mac would never have made it big here in America.

Jeff

June 29, 2012

You were very good. My Itunes were loaded up with you more than anyone. I loved your solo stuff that I blasted away on in the mid eighties at Ball State University with my Boston Accoustic A 100 Speakers. RIP

Steven Heckelman

June 19, 2012

My Deepest Sympathy and Prayers and Love goes out to The Welch Family at this difficult time.Fleetwood Mac is my favorite Rock Band and Bob was a key member put his unique stamp on the band with his amazing songs and incredible solo work as well.Truely an amazing person who touched millions he will be missed a legendary artist that was well loved by all.He will always be remembered.May he rest in peace.

Susan

June 15, 2012

I've always loved Fleetwood Mac's music!

God bless Bob's family during this most difficult time of sorrow.

Karla Duncan

June 15, 2012

I loved his voice and sentimental lady was so perfect. I can't seem to get this song out of my mind. He must have been in so much pain that none of us realize. May he rest in peace!

Melissa Garza

June 15, 2012

My condolences...I still love the music, so do my children.

Price Paula

June 14, 2012

I love their music always I still listen to their music, my sincere condolences to the family and friends,

Kat Seymour

June 14, 2012

So sad that you are gone but if you happen to run into a fantastic Sax player named David Isabelle, I hope you hook up and make beautiful music for God and tell Dave that Kat says she loves you and misses him and you will be very missed too. Rock on and condolences to the Welch family at this time.

Steven Sage

June 13, 2012

Robert has been there from the very 1st day I picked up the guitar.
It's like someone you've let into your soul and for that he will never leave my heart:(
May your journey find that path to peace my friend.
I'll never forget what you left me behind
...all those memorable summer harmonies growing up in Chicago that will stay with me forever.
Goodbye dear friend as I leave you a tribute to how much you meant to me...
http://youtu.be/0IejiAt4dMY

Marilyn Kunz

June 13, 2012

I grew up in the late 60's, 70's and enjoyed your music with Fleetwood Mac. RIP.

Tammy H.

June 13, 2012

For Bob - I hope you have found peace and wish comfort and peace to your loved ones.

Glenn

June 13, 2012

My deepest sympathies to Wendy and the Welch family. I was terribly saddened to hear about Bob's death. I thought Bob was a brilliant songwriter as well as a great singer and guitar player. Throughout the years I've continued to listen to Bob's Fleetwood Mac albums. Still love them to this day. I've felt very connected to that music. I once thanked Bob for that on his website. He responded kindly. Bob, thanks for sharing your ideas and spirit and music. You will be greatly missed.

barbara

June 13, 2012

You were a big part of my childhood. Love your songs...RIP

Cynthia Bennett

June 12, 2012

I grew up with your music and still have alot of your albums and Paris albums too! Your music will live on forever! RIP~ Prayers to the family!

Marie Conenna

June 12, 2012

You made such incredible music! You had a God given gift!! You will always be one of the greatest musicians in Rock and Roll history!! You will never be forgotten!!

Lidia Pierce

June 12, 2012

I can't believe the new of you4 death - I have all of your solo music - still play the cd's all the time - You will be
missed.

Jesse Corgatelli

June 12, 2012

Here is a candle for the dark lonely nights u may have this will light your way.

linda lucas

June 11, 2012

i love your music. you will not be forgotten.

doyle jones

June 11, 2012

We will miss your music

T B

June 11, 2012

My condolences to his family and friends. It is almost impossible to imagine what brings one to that point but we all wish we could prevent it. The best we can do is remember the talent, the love, the fun, and the most generous of memories of those we love and lose in such a tragic way. May you all heal and remember him well.

Mary Ralian

June 11, 2012

Bob,
You share a top shelf in the library of music with many other greats. Your music will live on forever. Sentimental Lady and Ebony Eyes - romantic ballads that can bring a tear to your eye . . . YOU ARE ONE OF THE GREATS - THANK YOU FOREVER.

June 11, 2012

To the family and friends of Bob Welch; Psalms 73:23 "But I am constantly with you, you have taken hold of my right hand." The God "Of comfort" will be with you during this difficult time.
GA

Barbara Wright

June 11, 2012

Bob, you have joined the greatest band in heaven! Rock on and we'll all join you someday soon!

Peter Rosenberg

June 11, 2012

In 1965 my sister and I visited my grandmother in L.A. She had a friend named Tempe, whose daughter Maggie drove me and my sister to Malibu to hear Maggie's brother's band. It was many years later that I put two and two together and realized that her brother was Bob Welsh. His band inspired me to take up playing the drums, and today music is my passion. Maggie, wherever you are, thank you. I have never forgotten that day. Your brother's music has inspired me for years. I am sorry for your loss.

K. L.

June 10, 2012

Bob, thank you for honoring us with your music. You will be missed.

M. Greer

June 10, 2012

So sorry to hear this sad news and so sad for his family and all of us. What a great talent and voice.

Jan Mountcastle

June 10, 2012

Glad I got to meet you Bob and Wendy at "The Bounty" and sing backup to your beautiful music a few years ago. I am asking the Angels to be with your wife and all who are grieving .

David Brylinski

June 10, 2012

Miss you Bob. Loved your music, especially your unique voice. See you in the resurrection on the paradise earth coming soon!

L H

June 10, 2012

RIP and may good memories carry loved ones through. Thanks for the great music and times

June 10, 2012

With deepest sympathy to the the Welch family during your time of grief...Psalm 46:1...God is for us a refuge and strength, A help that is readily to be found during difficult times...May God provide you with peace and comfort to endure the days ahead.

Pastor Leo Merchant

June 10, 2012

Bob,
I would like to say thank you for the friendship, although admitedly one sided on many an occasion. I did not keep up the correspondance often enough nor stayed true to my SAG friends and family.
You Bob were one of the great quiet majority for me and I always appreciated any time I was able to listen weather in a large venue or downtown at the shop.
I do hope you shall be able to sleep restfully my friend. Fly free my friend dove, fly free. I love You. Spirit Guide sent forth to Ms.

Joan Grandizio

June 10, 2012

Your beautiful signature voice will never be matched. It's your turn to be inducted into heaven's rock n roll Hall of Fame.

Christa Marro

June 10, 2012

RIP Bob! Thank you for the great music you left behind. You will be missed!

Lisa M. Leigh

June 10, 2012

R I P Mr. Welch Thank You For The Music!!!

Sherryle Mathis

June 10, 2012

I've been listening to your music for days now - brings back GREAT memories. You will be remembered!

Ginger Gossett-Cossey

June 10, 2012

Mr. Bob Welch shared his music with us and his gift will always be remembered with love.

Ellen DeLacy

June 10, 2012

Bob Welch had the most beautiful voice. My all-time favorite, "Hypnotized", has enchanted me for years and always will. What a tragic loss for the music world. May he rest in peace.

Richard Murphy

June 10, 2012

Rock on, Bob, rock on...

Sheryl & Mark Brown

June 10, 2012

Your music will live in our lives forever, brings back fond memories. RIP Bob, may your family cherish those memories once shared.

H McD

June 10, 2012

I hope you find the peace you seek. Your music will live on forever and speak for you.

Debbie

June 10, 2012

Bob's music had a HUGE impact on this high school student in the early 70's. We'd listen to "Bare Trees" everyday during our weaving class. Rejoice singing with the angels, Bob!

Julie

June 10, 2012

What a loss to the music industry. Bob, your talent will live on. Sentimental Lady is my favorite song and I thank you. Wendy, it's a tough road (unfortunately, I know) and you are in my thoughts and prayers.

Donna James

June 10, 2012

I remember your songs I loved, such as "Sentimental Lady" and "Ebony Eyes".
Your music inspired me and touched your hearts as well.
Now you are in Heaven with God and you will be missed by us all.
Rest in Peace, Bob!

mark bonno

June 10, 2012

Your with God now.

June 10, 2012

R.I.P.

Nancy Burleson

June 10, 2012

Condolences go to the family. God Is with him now. RIP Bob.

Craig Cross

June 10, 2012

Sentimental Lady was a song of all ages and Bob was a big part of Fleetwwood Mac. My condolences to his family.

June 10, 2012

Thank-you Bob! You do have your special place in Music history! All of your contributions are appreciated! May God bless and comfort you, Wendy, during this time and always!
John Gilbert

Helen

June 10, 2012

RIP, Bob.

June 10, 2012

YOUR DISTINCT GUITAR WORK AND BEAUTIFUL MELODIES WILL ALWAYS BE WITH US,THANKS BOB REST IN PEACE. BILL AND WENDIE,NEW YORK

Rand Schaffer

June 10, 2012

Too many words..too many memories.alwyas Bare Trees...do it again at the Rainbow Bridge..

Pat

June 10, 2012

R.I.P. so many memories of Fleetwood Mac in my younger years.. It would not have been the same without you...

Trina oviedo

June 10, 2012

You will always be alive threw your music and in hearts you will always live on My prayers are with you and your family. Amen

Scott Johnson

June 9, 2012

A wonderful person, talented musician and part of the rich soundtrack for my life. He continued and inspired my life in music. Thank you, Bob and thoughts go out to Wendy.

Suzanne Devine

June 9, 2012

LOVED YOUR MUSIC BOB...had just visited your FB page recently and was enjoying relistening to your music when I heard the sad news...RIP : (

Katie Owens

June 9, 2012

"It's better to rise, than fade away"......Godspeed during your painful loss..I know your feelings all too well..My deepest sympathy to his wife...He will never leave your side..

ROXIE LEBLANCHE

June 9, 2012

PRAYERS AND SYMPATHY TO BOB'S FAMILY.GREAT GUITARIST AND LOVED FLEETWOOD MAC.

June 9, 2012

My Husband and I are married 32 years! We were dating and I was courted to Mr. Welch's songs: Ebony eyes, Sentimental lady to name a few...WONDERFUL MEMORIES...Thank you Mr. Welch. Your songs have left a mark in our lives forever..

Ernest Crawford

June 9, 2012

i loved Fleetwood Mac myself. may god be with y'all. Ernest Crawford

matt wood

June 9, 2012

Bare Trees was an important part of my college soundtrack. Thank you.

frank rainone

June 9, 2012

Bob I arrived in Los Angeles in the early '70's. I saw your band at The Roxy on Sunset during the "Trees" Album. I remember you got a rousing standing ovation after every song. I went out and bought all the music I could find of yours. I was very distressed to learn of your death You were a great guitar player, lyricist, and singer. Strange, but I was just thinking about you and your musicianship and that nite I saw you on Sunset. 10 minutes later the radio news told of your death. Listening to your guitar playing was like watching magic. Rest Easy,Mate.....

John

June 9, 2012

You, along with Danny Kirwan, remain the bridges and critical links between the old Fleetwood Mac and the new Fleetwood Mac. You will not be forgotten, your music lives on forever.

linda nunn

June 9, 2012

you and your music will always live on.my heart goes out to bobs family and friend,godspeed.

Don & Pam Harvill

June 9, 2012

Your music has touched our life & others... Our prayers are with your family. R.I.P. Bob

Charlie Ott

June 9, 2012

Great member of FWMac. Too sad they did not include you in the R&R Hall of Fame. Rest well Bob. Charlie O.

Wanda Henry

June 9, 2012

My condolences are for Bob Welch family and friends during this sad time. Death is not a easy thing. Your grief can be great. Through your prayers God can give you all the strength you need to cope and peace you need to rest.

Victoria&Andrew

June 9, 2012

Say Hello to
MR.BILLGRAHAM
rock Promoter of
Legends
Peace be with you
rip BOB'WELCH
Our Condolences
to His Family
And Years of Friends
in the Music world)
Leaving Behind
Wonderful Creative
Music'Peace Be with you
In the Ever Lasting
Journey inside magic
spiritual Heavens
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Bob and Stevie, Bob doing what Bob loved best.

JohnW Gary

June 9, 2012

lgb brodie

June 9, 2012

deepest sympathies to all family, friends and fans. :( a sad loss :(

John Gary

June 9, 2012

Bob, we had more songs to write....Ok, so we'll write them on the other side when we get there with you.. I know you were in pain, and now your not... Fly my friend, we'll see you soon... With all my love, just a big fan. John

June 9, 2012

Peace be with you

Ken Murphy

June 9, 2012

Thanx for all the great tunes you wrote over the years. My favorite was recorded with the band Paris, entitled "NAZARENE." You got my love Bob. R.I.P.

Andy Rodriguez, Jr.

June 9, 2012

I gave a few friends "Three Hearts / French Kiss" CD that I knew they would enjoy, because we would play the albums non-stop during the late 70's. This was just a few weeks ago. Thanks for all the fond memories Bob , you will forever be in our hearts. Condolences to the Welch family. Now you are at peace.

June 9, 2012

May the God of all comfort be with you at this time of grief, may all Bob's memories stay close to your hearts. Psalms 46:1 Joanna

Dick

June 9, 2012

Rip Bob; thanks for Sentimental Lady and Church

Dave Hicks

June 9, 2012

Our condolences to the Welch Family,the world is a much lonlier place without Bob. God Bless
Dave & Diane Hicks

Theresa

June 9, 2012

Thank you for the beautiful music! Praying that God comforts your family and friends. May you Rest In Peace.

Donald Marinelli

June 9, 2012

Thank you Bob for your music and memories.You wrote great songs that will be played forever by many that enjoyed your thoughts.My prayers are with you and your family during this sad time.Rest in Peace Bob.You were loved by millions.From one of your fans,Donald Marinelli

Andy Anderson

June 9, 2012

I saw Bob Welch and Dave Mason in concert at Kent State in 78-79. One of the greatest concerts ever. REST IN PEACE MY FRIEND. You wil always be remembered.

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December 7, 2024

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