A South Holland drummer who played with the band Squeeze and Jools Holland Rhythm and Blues Orchestra has died.
Gilson Lavis passed away aged 74 at his home last night (Wednesday, November 5), Jools Holland said on social media this afternoon.
He said: “On behalf of my Orchestra, Squeeze, the many musicians who have worked with and befriended Gilson over the years and all the people he has supported through the AA fellowship, I send our love and sympathy to Nikki and Gilson, his dear wife and son.”
Gilson joined Squeeze in 1976 and played with them on all their albums until the mid 90s, including on hits such as Cool For Cats and Up The Junction.
Before that he’d toured as a session drummer with Chuck Berry, Dolly Parton and Jerry Lee Lewis. He wrote about these early days for Cheerio Publishing here.
He drummed with fellow former Squeeze member Jools Holland until late last year when he announced his retirement.
Away from music Gilson was a keen painter whose portraits included those of Paul Simon, Ringo Starr and Eric Clapton. He posted art on his Instagram account.
