Add a Memory
Make a Donation
Allan Holdsworth
1946 - 2017
Allan Holdsworth
1946 - 2017
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1946
DIED
2017
Allan Holdsworth Obituary
The cause of death was not immediately available.
Holdsworth released a dozen studio albums and collaborated with other musicians including the group Soft Machine, violinist Jean-Luc Ponty, Stanley Clarke, and the groups Bruford and Krokus.
He is credited with being a key influence on guitarists including Eddie Van Halen, Joe Satriani, Alex Lifeson, Kurt Rosenwinkel, and Tom Morello.
His solo albums, recorded over the course of four decades, include "Velvet Darkness" (1976), "Metal Fatigue" (1985), "Wardenclyffe Tower" (1992), "Hard Hat Area" (1993), and "Flat Tire: Music for a Non-Existent Movie" (2001).
Click to get weekly celebrity death news delivered to your inbox.
Holdsworth was born Aug. 6, 1946, in Bradford, England. He had been based in California since the 1980s.
He is survived by a daughter, Louise, and a granddaughter.
Fellow guitarists and other musicians shared their condolences via social media.
Steve Lukather tweeted: "I cant believe it! Allan Holdsworth, legendary guitarist of our generation! He changed the game + was the sweetest guy ever... RIP"
Guitarist Mahavishnu John McLaughlin wrote on Twitter: "Another great guitar player lost . RIP #allanholdsworth"
Guitarist Kurt Rosenwinkel tweeted: "Allan Holdsworth, Colossus, gentle man, blazed a trail through the heights of musical invention. we can only look up & marvel. God Speed RIP"
Guitarists Joe Satriani tweeted: "R.I.P. Allan Holdsworth. You remain an enormous inspiration to me. Your beautiful music will live on forever."
Satriani's tweet included a photograph of the two musicians standing together.
98 Entries
JOHN PATTERSON
December 16, 2021
OH, ALLAN, I THINK OF YOU AT LEAST EVERY OTHER WEEK. YOUR MUSIC WAS A STEADY PART OF MY LIFE SINCE THE LATE 70s. IT WAS GOOD SEEING YOU LIVE ONE TIME. IT WAS GOOD SPEAKING WITH YOU OVER THE PHONE FOR THAT ATTEMPTED INTERVIEW THAT NEVER HAPPENED. THANK YOU FOR ALL THE INFLUENCE YOU HAD ON MY GUITAR PLAYING & ALL THE JOY OF LISTENING TO YOUR MUSIC FOR DECADES. NOBODY COULD EVER CREATE SHEETS OF SOUND LIKE YOU COULD. SUCH GENIUS . . . SUCH A LOSS TO THE WORLD OF FINE MUSIC. THANK YOU FOR SHARING YOUR MUSICAL VISIONS. I HOPE TO SEE YOU AGAIN UP THERE . . . GOODBYE ALLAN.
Ralph Biansco
November 25, 2017
Allan was simply the finest, most talented guitarist on planet Earth. He was both cognitively and physically light years beyond all other guitarists/musicians. If he were a mathematician, he would have been in a category with Albert Einstein. If all other guitarists who are considered "great" were the brightness of a lit candle, Allan was a towering inferno! My deepest condolences to his family. The world lost a once in a millennia talent and a humble, giving man. RIP fine sir. Dr. Ralph Biansco
diane tyszka
August 5, 2017
miss you allan me and my husband you know him as big john.thank you for being a great friend miss those day at the local watering hole just talking about family and good times ..R.I.P.thinking of you ,will be playing your music on your birthday..
How you can show support
John Jachens
July 18, 2017
Allan was a huge inspiration for me on guitar. His beautiful and creative music with all the intricate chords and beautifully complex guitar solos still continue to intrigue me after four decades of listening to all of his amazing albums. I'm so fortunate to have seen him in concert a number of times, and I will always cherish those experiences. My deepest condolences go out to his family. RIP Mr. Allan Holdsworth
Glen South
June 17, 2017
I first met Allan in his home in Yorkshire when I was forming a group to go to Brussels where I had a record deal. In the event, I had to go to Brussels alone, but, when I returned, I was glad to meet up with Allan again. When the excellent Alan Wormald left my band at Sunderland Mecca to go on the road, Allan Holdsworth took his place as my lead guitarist, playing the pop music of the day and strict tempo dance music. We spent two years together on the Mecca circuit during which time Allan also started playing violin and clarinet and, within three weeks, he was very good on both instruments. Aware of his extraordinary talent, I took Allan to Ronnie Scott's Club to meet up with Ray Whalley, knowing that Allan had to move on. Before he left, Allan gave me his rehearsal guitar, a Hoffner Verythin, which he made sound like a Gibson, and which I still have and treasure. I retained an interest in his career, even bought his "Tempest" album and many others.
His passing has come as a great shock. I always regarded him as a great friend and wish to send condolences to his family.
Josh Ramos
May 25, 2017
You were the greatest guitarist ever for me, I will miss your beautiful legato notes, you touched my heart like no one has, I love you Allan, always in my ❤
Carlton Cunningham
May 21, 2017
Martin Bobal
May 19, 2017
Your music enlightens the good times and brings comfort to dark periods. I cannot imagine live without it. Thank You Allan
Geoff Ralph
May 19, 2017
I'm not a musician and I never understood Allan's music - but I loved it all for its beauty, power and originality. We lost him from England because we didn't appreciate his genius. For years I watched hopefully for another album and to hear of his untimely death is so devastating.
Heartfelt condolences to his family for the loss of this great yet humble man.
Patrick Williamson
May 9, 2017
Hi, My name I Patrick Williamson,
I'm 49 yrs. old. I first heard him with JLP.I play bass and my brother was a drummer. My brother and I worked for Mesa Boogie years ago. I got to meet him at a NAMM show. he signed a picture of himself with some Boogie equipment. I have seen him live throughout Northern California in those days. I would look for him on his solo work and when he would make a special appearance on someone else's work. Like Chads album 40 yrs.
In my opinion he tore it up like no one else. I will be enjoying his music today and still wishing I could of jammed with him one day. as he would say Cheers
and god bless.
John Radclyffe
May 5, 2017
A humble legend. Amazing influence on musicians. A guitarists guitarist. Incredible skill and feel, who could improvise like no other. RIP Allan.
Todd Muse
May 4, 2017
I had the honor and privilege of seeing the incomparable Allan Holdsworth play in Alexandria, Virginia and the Towson University Guitar Congress back in 2004. I was very lucky to get him to autograph a album for me in Virginia after his performance. I saw many of his disciples play in concert including Eddie Van Halen, Alex Lifeson, Steve Vai, Joe Satriani, Yngwie Malmsteen, Vernon Reid, Alex Skolnick,etc. I hold Mr. Holdsworth in the same high esteem as John Coltrane who was his idol. I feel blessed to have met him and thank God he made the most avant garde music on his guitars with a sense of flair, grace and ingenuity our world may never see again.
Federico Rodz
May 3, 2017
Allan you were never about, you were it. Your humility and genius will remain mysterious and sublime like your music.
With love.
April 28, 2017
My heartfelt condolences to his family. There are few people that have the talent that Allan shared with us. RIP Brother.
Bradley Davis Bandon Or.
April 27, 2017
My condolences to the family may you endure this difficult time. Phillipians 4:6,7
NC
April 27, 2017
Condolences to the family of Allan Holdsworth. During this sorrowful time, may you have many cherished memories and may you seek God as a secure refuge, under the shadow of his wings. - Psalm 17:8
Amy Harding
April 27, 2017
My deepest condolences to Allan's family and friends. He was an amazing musician who created something very unique; he was a true genius.
I had the pleasure of meeting him at several of his shows and found him to be very kind. He always made time for his fans.
His music will live on forever and he will never be forgotten.
Rest in Peace and thank you for all the joy and beautiful music you have shared with us.
Amy Harding
April 27, 2017
My heartfelt condolences to Allan's family. He was an amazing talent; it is no exaggeration to say that he was a genius.
I had the pleasure of meeting him several times at his shows. He was very nice and always took time to speak with his fans. His music will live forever.
Thank you, Allan, for your inspiration and the hauntingly beautiful music you created.
You will never be forgotten.
John McGrail
April 26, 2017
Thank You Allan. Your playing was the most unique.
Abby Raymond
April 25, 2017
Sorry about your loss,praying for family to fine comfort at this time
Tim Blackman
April 25, 2017
Thank you for your beautiful and moving music. Your approach was unique and your own.
Mark Staniforth
April 25, 2017
Hi- so sorry. My favorite guitarist! I saw him play 3 times- I am a musician (not much of one compared to A.H.) so I know he was a genius!- God bless you all!
Henry Dennis
April 24, 2017
You cannot imagine how much you gave me. How much your music changed my life. Your softer songs we're so mesmerizing that they took me to places I could not otherwise reach and the emotion and intelligence of your lead guitar playing will never be seen again. This is truly one of the saddest days of my life.
Rose Duodu
April 24, 2017
To Allan's family, you are in our thoughts and prayers. Your music will live on. May you rest in peace knowing you done all you can.
Bob McCabe
April 23, 2017
A true guitar genius. For the past 1-2 months I've been watching his videos on YouTube and reading his biography, and now he has passed. Although I've never met or seen him, I feel like I've lost a good friend. You have inspired most elite guitarists. What an accomplishment. Good bye Allan Holdsworth.
true genius
Paul Karhoff
April 23, 2017
Paul Karhoff
April 23, 2017
Truly a virtuosic genius taken from us far too soon....I'm blessed to have seen him live twice to witness his original talent in person...first in 1988 then in 2005...each time he left the audience completely spellbound...I continue to treasure his work with Gong, Ponty, and Bruford....and remain enamored by his wonderful composition and sound on IOU and other solo works...God Bless you Allan, your unique skill on guitar will forever remain in our hearts...
Rob Mowery
April 22, 2017
To Allan's family, you are in our thoughts and prayers. I hope that you find some comfort in knowing just how loved Allan was by his fans.
To Allan, thank you for your gift of giving the world a unique/fresh approach to music and the guitar. We are forever grateful. Rest in peace.
Allen Dudley
April 22, 2017
Like the greatest greats only Allan Holdsworth could play like Allan Holdsworth. I was only able to see him live once but I'm so grateful for that opportunity. I will certainly remember and respect him for as long as I live.
April 22, 2017
Daniel Goodaker (Laporte, Indiana)So sorry to hear of his passing! Metal Fatigue was one of my all time favorite albums. May the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob comfort his family now and forever.
Scott Chamberland
April 22, 2017
Rest in Peace
Jack Riddle
April 22, 2017
Met him twice, saw him perform 14 times, and will play his music eternally. He was a great guy, very nice and I'm sad for the family on their loss. Rest in peace Allan.
Randall Lewis
April 22, 2017
Dear Allan, for two generations, you spoke to our souls through a guitar - like no one before, after - or likely ever again; and now you are our soul-mate. Because of your sudden departure, our way is lost, for now; but through your guitar, we will find our way out of this thick and heavy sadness, which our souls now feel. See you on the other side, my soul-mate. ~ Randall Lewis
April 21, 2017
To the family and every one that loved Allan, I am truly sorry for your loss. My condolences to the family and friends. Psalms 94:19
Paul Gilfillan
April 21, 2017
Deep regrets for his untimely passing. He influenced so many musicians with his skill and techniques. I first heard him play on the Tony Williams Lifetime album in 1971 and he changed my guitar playing forever.
We are all so fortunate to have enjoyed his musicality these past 45 years.
Mike Kraynak
April 20, 2017
MY heart reaches out to Allan's loved ones.Very sorry for you all.
Allan has had,and will ever have a profound impact of not only my musicianship,but my imagination. Hearing him play,allowed my mind to soar,and fed creativity that I would not have ever had if
not for him. Forever with me.
Greg Florko
April 20, 2017
Most innovative guitarist in history in my opinion. Allan stayed true to his passion of playing instrumental music, never yielding to the pressures of the commercial music business. He was truly dedicated to his art form, putting his artistic statements and freedom ahead of monetary profits.
Wright
April 20, 2017
May the God of comfort,comfort all who knew him in the difficult days ahead. Our heartfelt condolences
Jenkins Family
April 20, 2017
May the God of peace bring serenity to the family during your time of bereavement.
Bas Langenburg
April 20, 2017
I wish the family of Allan's proper strength and courage to bear this terrible loss. Since I was a young lad, I have enjoyed Allans' professionality in music in such depth, that I can say that his fabulous guitar skills and basically his scientific approach of re-inventing the quitar has positively scarfed my brain, adding deeply to my joy in life. Living in london back in 1979, I had the honour of seeing him gig in what I believe must have been the 100 club in Oxford street, where I also had the opportunity to very briefly speak to him. He was okay with me taking some pictures, which must lie about somewhere in my hard copy foto collection. I think it must have been either Gary on drums or maybe John (Stevens), can't remember any base player, sorry.
Allan has given the world true, genuine and intense enjoyment in the area of how one was able to play and others were able to listen to extremely intellectual guitar play....he was miles and miles ahead of his time, and I'm absolutely convinced nobody, never, will rise in the future to match his brilliant legatos and thrilling way of play. My good friend, although we spoke only once with eachother: please be aware of my deepest respect and rest in peace. You will not be forgotten.
Bas Langenburg, Apeldoorn, Netherlands.
April 20, 2017
The precious of Alan will bring you comfort however even in the face of calamity of death we all need comfort in the reality of it. May you find real comfort and relief and asa result begin to recover gradually from the pain love from those around you through the days ahead
R C
April 20, 2017
To The Family Of Allan Holdsworth
My condolences to the family during this time of sorrow. My hope is that you find comfort in knowing that Almighty God is close to those brokenhearted.
Krystel
April 20, 2017
My most sincere condolences for the loss of Allan. Loss of a loved one can be difficult but if you seek God during this hard time he promises to bring peace to those who are hurting.
Philippians 4:6,7
bill Gile
April 19, 2017
As someone who has seen Allan many times over the years, it is with great sadness to hear of his passing. Not only was he an amazing guitarist, but a kind friendly man. I know this by coming in contact with him many times through friends that knew him. Allan, you will be missed. Prayers to the family and all friends. Bill Whittier, CA
April 19, 2017
Condolences to the family of Allan Holdsworth.
May the God of all comfort strengthen you at this time.
jeff whitacre
April 19, 2017
Alan you were a true innovator of fusion and experimental rock music. An incredible guitarist. The first I went to see you play I was 17 and im 62 now. your influence is legendary . You will be missed as a person and as one of the greatest musicians in the field of progressive guitar. God Bless. Rest in Peace J
Bruce Baise
April 19, 2017
Once in a lifetime...if you're lucky,a person will come along that is so far ahead of the game as to make the other participants efforts seem laughable.Allan Holdsworth was that person to guitarists. Even with Soft Machine you could tell that his musical vision was quickly developing.His body of work is easily on par with all of the classical composers. Touched by our CREATOR GOD.
April 19, 2017
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
April 19, 2017
Louise, Family, Friends,
Our condolences and
prayers are with the family at this difficult time. May the God who gives peace be with all of you.
Ron Drago
April 19, 2017
As a guitarist, Allan was such an inspiration to me. I only wish I had met him so I could tell him that myself. R.I.P. Allan.
Larry Bell
April 19, 2017
Rest in Peace one of my Favorite Musicians,Songwriters and Guitarists in the 20th and 21st Centuries. An inspiration to me and many musicians and Guitarists. A real Original. We Love You <3
April 19, 2017
So very very sad. Loss of a great musician and humble person. I'm still in shock. My condoleances to Louise and the rest of the Holdsworth family. May God bless you in this difficult period. Hans Celis, sittard, Holland.
Pablo Alcayaga
April 19, 2017
My condolences to the family. Allan was the most important, the most contemporary, the most imitated, but never equaled. We love you, Allan, wherever you are ..
Tony Accurso
April 19, 2017
Goodbye Allan. I will deeply cherish your music and fond memories of your shows over the years. R.I.P.
Stephen Amorino
April 19, 2017
My deepest condolences to Allan's family. Allan was my favorite musician, growing up me and my father shared many happy memories playing his music and listening to Allan, one thing we both shared before my dad passed away. He inspired me to play guitar and love music- I'm sure he will be greatly missed. I'm sure many others would agree that his music means a lot to those that listened (and will continue) to listen to him
Claudio Conigliaro
April 18, 2017
Thanks for so many years of inspiration and knowledge your place will never be filled again . RIP
Claudio Conigliaro (Philadelphia)
Steven Adams
April 18, 2017
So sorry for your loss. I saw him at the Santa Monica civic one of most musical experiences I have ever seen or heard.May God keep up close and comfort you through this very difficult time.
Mytch Meadows
April 18, 2017
Condolences to family and close friends.
Mytch Meadows
April 18, 2017
VERY sad to see you go. You're a VERY important and GREAT influence to me, not only as a musician/guitarist, but as a person. Met you once, briefly at the 2009 NAMM convention in Anaheim, CA, and you were genuinely warm and cordial. Saw you perform numerous times and was FLOORED "EVERY" TIME. You will be Forever Loved and Missed. R.I.P.
betty
April 18, 2017
I'm very sorry for your loss. May his memories being a smile to your heart. May the God of all comfort give you strength to endure this difficult time.
April 18, 2017
I'm sorry for your loss. May the God of all comfort, provide your family with peace and the strength needed to endure your loss.
April 18, 2017
Allan and family my condolences sorry about your lost
Ken
April 18, 2017
you were the greatest influence to me when my mind needed it. You were truly one of a kind. Your music will live forever. Peace to you.... A Giant lost to this world. RIP
fabio collina
April 18, 2017
Good bye, Allan. Thanks for being there with your great music.
Mike Vogel
April 18, 2017
Another great guitarist for Jazz and Rock & Roll heaven.
R.I.P. Allan
Marilynn
April 18, 2017
My deepest condolences for the loss of Mr. Allan Holdsworth, during this difficult time in your lives. May you be comforted by God who promises life again on Paradise earth for those who have died.-(Matthew 11:25). Know that Prayers are being said in your behalf.
Andrew Sears
April 18, 2017
A true genius and one of a kind.
Allan was given a gift and developed that gift into something that was never seen or heard before. A true pioneer and innovator. Rest in Peace Allan.
April 18, 2017
Sad to hear of the death of Allan Holdsworth, a true musical genius. I played with him in Bill Bruford's band and very much enjoyed his company - a nice, open, warm-hearted guy whose deep understanding of harmony and fearless experimentation are an example to us all. Condolences to Allan's family and loved ones. Dave Stewart (keyboardist).
Marian Rain
April 18, 2017
Allan passed. What a loss.
He was such an immense inspiration as human being and as musician and composer.
So absolutely sad.
May the love of friends and fans carry his famliy through their deep grief.
OT
April 18, 2017
Sorry for your loss.Memories are a precious gift from Almighty . May you find comfort in your memories.
April 18, 2017
My prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.
April 18, 2017
Sorry for your loss. May you draw comfort from the scripture at Ecclesiastes 9 : 5 that show your loved ones a resting in peace.
Brian & Cece
April 17, 2017
Cheers from "Ye 'Ol Laundry Room" You'll be missed old friend...
christian
April 17, 2017
My deepest condolences to the family and friends of Allan. Rest assured life is precious to our Creator. he promises to act in our behalf.
1 Corinthians 15:26
Greg Brown
April 17, 2017
A major influence to me. You will be surely missed!
Roy Root
April 17, 2017
RIP, Allan. I met you in 83 in New Jersey and had a fun time seeing you play. I've been sweating ever since. I apply your musical approach to every instrument I play and everything I write. Cheers! Roy
Root
Carlotta
April 17, 2017
May the God of all peace bring comfort to the Holdsworth family and friends at this difficult time.
Patricia DeStefano
April 17, 2017
So sorry to hear of your loss. Allen Holds worth was a talented individual. It is sad to hear of his passing. May those closet to him find solace in the Almighty God's promise to end sickness and suffering and to unite our families in paradise. My deepest and sincere condolences to your families and friends.
April 17, 2017
I am truly sorry for your loss. May the God of comfort give you strength during this difficult time. Psalms 29:11.
Gary Granger
April 17, 2017
I met Allan first when he toured in support of the Road Games record. He provided many of us a peek into the universe through his mind and it was quite a view! His influence on generations of musicians will only grow with time I am certain. RIP Allan and my condolences to his family and friends.
Harry Simpson
April 17, 2017
Godspeed Allan, and thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
Richard Mazzaferro
April 17, 2017
Anyone alive who plays the guitar owes something to Allan Holdsworth. I had the fortune to meet him once after a show in Albany, New York in the mid 1980s. His warmth and approachability demonstrated that he was as much a gentleman as he was a virtuoso. He will always be one of my favourites!
O.R
April 17, 2017
My Condolences to for the loss of your dear loved one.
Mary Green
April 17, 2017
My deepest Condolence to the family of Allan Holdsworth may you find comfort in knowing that others shares your sorrow with you. Take Comfort in knowing that God keeps those who dies in his memory for they are precious in his eyes. Psalm 116:15.
April 17, 2017
MY CONDOLENCES TO THE HOLDSWORTH FAMILY 1PET. 5:7 "THROW YOUR ANXIETY UPON HIM BECAUSE HE CARES FOR YOU".
Tony D'Agostino
April 17, 2017
A great loss to say the least,Allen Holdsworth,talk about playing out of the box,maybe one of the best ever! Allen's music will live on!
R.I.P. Allen Holdsworth!!!
April 17, 2017
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
April 17, 2017
To be an influence for good is what we all aspire to be. To accomplish that feat is absolutely amazing. No words can say what a heart really feels so love peace and and accept what you are now. My sincere condolences.
Andrew Benton
April 17, 2017
Allan was a true genius; a master of improvisation and staunch musical visionary. His work transformed many lives and will continue to inspire all those fortunate enough to hear it.
Adrian Barnette
April 17, 2017
We'll miss you !
David Grossi
April 17, 2017
RIP Alan. Love and Prayers to your family. May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. A True inspiration to us all.
Showing 1 - 98 of 98 results
Make a Donation
in Allan Holdsworth's name
How to support Allan's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Allan Holdsworth's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read moreMore ways to support the family
Visit the Sympathy Shop
Sponsored