Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Rick Parfitt

Richard John Parfitt OBE (12 October 1948 – 24 December 2016) was an English rock musician, singer, and songwriter, best known as the longtime rhythm guitarist for the band , with whom he performed from 1967 until his death nearly five decades later. Born in , , Parfitt began playing guitar at age 11 and left school at 15 to pursue music full-time, initially working as a musician on a cruise ship. He met future frontman in 1965 at a holiday camp in and joined the band—then known as The Spectres—in 1967 as a singer and second guitarist, helping solidify their shift toward a signature boogie-rock sound. Parfitt co-wrote several of Status Quo's biggest hits, including "Whatever You Want" (1979, No. 4), "" (1976, No. 7), and "Mystery Song" (1976, No. 11), contributing to the band's remarkable tally of over 50 Top 40 singles and more than 20 studio albums. The duo of Parfitt and Rossi became synonymous with Status Quo's high-energy, riff-driven performances, including iconic appearances at events like in 1985 and their role as one of Britain's most enduring live acts. In recognition of his contributions to music and charity, Parfitt was appointed Officer of the (OBE) in the 2010 , alongside Rossi. His solo album Over and Out was released posthumously in 2018, but he remained primarily associated with . Parfitt's personal life was marked by three marriages: first to Marietta Boeker in 1973, with whom he had son Richard (Rick Parfitt Jr., born 1974, a and racer) and daughter Heidi; second to Patty Beedon; and third to Lyndsay Whitburn in 2006, with whom he had twins Tommy and Lily in 2008 via IVF. He struggled with health issues, including a quadruple heart bypass in 1997, a cancer scare in 2005 (later confirmed benign), heart attacks in 2011 and 2014, and a blood clot in 2014, which forced him to retire from touring in 2016. Parfitt died on 24 December 2016 in a Marbella hospital from following complications of shoulder surgery, just weeks after his final performance.

Early years

Childhood and family background

Richard John Parfitt was born on 12 October 1948 in , , , the son of Richard Parfitt and Lillian Parfitt. His father worked as an insurance salesman and was known for his drinking and gambling, while his mother was employed in local cake shops to help support the family. The Parfitt family resided in a modest on a pleasant estate in Sheerwater, near , amid the post-war recovery of working-class suburban . Parfitt later reflected on his upbringing as a "wonderful childhood," characterized by the freedom of a tight-knit where children spent hours playing outdoors in the cul-de-sac. Despite the financial strains from his father's habits and the era's economic challenges, the family maintained a stable home environment that emphasized resilience and resourcefulness. These circumstances likely shaped Parfitt's pragmatic outlook and drive, as he often marveled at his parents' ability to provide amid uncertainties. Parfitt attended Goldsworth School and other local schools in the area, completing his formal education at age 15 without obtaining qualifications, a common path for many in his socioeconomic context at the time. His early years were filled with typical suburban boyhood pursuits.

Initial musical experiences

Parfitt began playing guitar at the age of 11, sparking an immediate interest in music and performance. Largely self-taught, he honed his skills by emulating recordings of early rock 'n' roll artists, developing a passion for the genre during his pre-teen years. He drew inspiration from British rock pioneers such as and , whose clean guitar tones and rhythmic styles shaped his emerging interest in playing. Around age 14 or 15, Parfitt formed his first informal bands in the garage scene of his hometown in , , including a called , influenced by the and rock 'n' roll sounds popular among British youth at the time. These early groups allowed him to experiment with ensemble playing, blending simple chord progressions and upbeat rhythms drawn from acts like and . The informal rehearsals and jam sessions marked his transition from solitary practice to collaborative music-making, fostering the boogie-inflected style that would define his later work. Parfitt's entry into local performing scenes came soon after, with gigs at Surrey pubs, youth clubs, and nearby holiday camps where he earned modest pocket money—often £5 a week for solo spots. These performances, including appearances at venues like the Sunshine Holiday Camp on and Butlin’s in , provided crucial experience in front of audiences and solidified his commitment to music. At 15, he left school to pursue music full-time, forgoing other job opportunities in favor of a professional path, a decision supported by his family and driven by the thrill of live shows and the growing rock scene.

Professional career

Formative bands and pre-Status Quo work

Parfitt began his professional music career in at the age of 15, joining his first band, The Demons, as rhythm guitarist after being approached by drummer Bob Peake and lead guitarist Jim Blanchard while performing solo at local venues. The short-lived group, which marked Parfitt's initial foray into ensemble playing, disbanded after approximately six months without achieving notable recognition. Following the dissolution of The Demons, Parfitt joined , a featuring the Harrison Twins on vocals and , where he continued as rhythm guitarist. The band secured residencies at holiday camps, including performances at , providing Parfitt with early experience in live entertainment and audience engagement amid the burgeoning British beat scene. In summer 1965, while performing at holiday camp in with , Parfitt met , who was playing with his band The Spectres. The encounter sparked an immediate friendship, bonded by mutual admiration for and , influences that shaped their early musical tastes and laid the groundwork for future collaboration. Parfitt's time in these formative groups also included brief stints with other local outfits, where he refined his boogie-inflected style and performance energy through and circuits.

Tenure with Status Quo

Rick Parfitt joined the band then known as The Spectres in late 1967 as an additional guitarist and vocalist, marking the beginning of his nearly 50-year association with what would become Status Quo. Having met frontman Francis Rossi a few years earlier during separate performances, Parfitt integrated into the lineup alongside Rossi, bassist Alan Lancaster, and drummer John Coghlan, solidifying the group's core formation. This addition came as the band sought to expand their sound beyond their initial beat group style, with Parfitt contributing rhythm guitar and harmonies that added depth to their emerging psychedelic influences. During their psychedelic phase, Status Quo achieved early commercial success with the single "," released in 1967 and peaking at No. 7 on the in 1968, which showcased Parfitt's supportive guitar work and vocal backing on a track driven by Rossi's composition. The band's debut album under the Status Quo name, Picturesque Matchstickable Messages from the Status Quo, captured this experimental era with swirling guitars and pop-psych elements. However, by the early 1970s, Status Quo pivoted toward a raw sound rooted in 12-bar progressions, a stylistic evolution in which Parfitt played a pivotal role through his propulsive and shared lead duties. This shift propelled them to greater prominence, emphasizing high-energy riffs and straightforward rock structures. Parfitt's contributions extended to songwriting on key releases, including co-authoring "Break the Rules" with bandmates Rossi, , Coghlan, and roadie Bob Young for the 1974 album Quo, a track that exemplified their anthemic, rule-defying . Albums like Piledriver (1972) and Hello! (1973), both produced by the band themselves, highlighted this boogie phase with Parfitt's gritty rhythm lines and vocal interplay fueling hits such as "" and "," establishing as arena-rock staples. These records marked a commercial breakthrough, with Piledriver in particular capturing their live-wire intensity in studio form. Throughout his tenure, Parfitt was integral to 's relentless touring schedule, with the band performing over 6,000 shows worldwide, often exceeding 100 gigs annually in their peak years. A landmark moment came in 1985 when , featuring Parfitt's signature rhythm guitar, opened the concert at , delivering a high-octane set including "" to an audience of 72,000 and a global television viewership of 1.9 billion. His consistent role as rhythm guitarist and infused the band's performances with unrelenting 12-bar energy, cementing their reputation as enduring live performers.

Solo projects and side ventures

Parfitt recorded his first solo album, titled Recorded Delivery, between 1985 and 1986, but it remained unreleased during his lifetime due to contractual issues with . The project featured original material showcasing a more introspective side of his songwriting, distinct from the band's boogie-rock sound, though some tracks later influenced Quo compositions. In addition to his band commitments, Parfitt contributed to external projects, including co-writing and performing guitar on "It's an Illusion" for Roger Taylor's 1984 solo album . This collaboration with the Queen drummer highlighted Parfitt's versatility in a pop-rock context, blending his rhythmic style with Taylor's production. He also participated in the Band Aid charity single "Do They Know It's Christmas?" in 1984, joining a supergroup of British musicians to raise funds for Ethiopian famine relief. Parfitt's only officially released solo album, Over and Out, appeared posthumously on , 2018, via earMUSIC, drawn from sessions he completed in 2016 with producer Jo Webb. The record, comprising ten original songs, emphasized acoustic-driven ballads and reflective lyrics, with guest appearances by former members including bassist and John "Rhino" Edwards, as well as harmonica player Bob Young. Tracks like the title song "Over and Out" and "" were performed at his , underscoring their personal significance, while the album's release fulfilled Parfitt's long-held ambition for independent creative output.

Musical approach and gear

Rhythm guitar style and contributions

Rick Parfitt's style was defined by a signature "chop" technique, characterized by aggressive downstrokes that delivered a relentless, percussive drive, forming the backbone of Status Quo's iconic 12-bar boogie sound. This approach, often executed with a , created a blurred motion in his right hand, propelling the band's high-octane performances and contributing to their raw, unpolished energy that resonated through decades of live shows. Parfitt's playing evolved significantly during his tenure with Status Quo, transitioning from intricate psychedelic picking in the late 1960s—evident in early hits like "Pictures of Matchstick Men"—to the straightforward, high-energy rock rhythms that dominated the band's output from the mid-1970s onward. This shift aligned with 's broader musical transformation into boogie-driven , emphasizing simplicity and power over complexity, and helped solidify their role in revitalizing pub rock's back-to-basics ethos in the UK scene. As a key songwriter, Parfitt co-wrote more than 20 songs for , including major hits such as "Whatever You Want" (1979, co-written with ) and contributions to tracks like "" (1977 album , adapted from ). His songwriting often complemented his rhythmic style, infusing boogie structures with catchy hooks that amplified the band's anthemic appeal. Recognized as the "heartbeat of " for his propulsive delivery, Parfitt's contributions earned praise from peers, including Queen's , who said he "joyfully rocked our world." Early influences like shaped his foundational rock sensibilities, evident in 's covers and overall rhythmic vitality.

Signature equipment and influences

Throughout his career with , Rick Parfitt primarily relied on a as his signature guitar, favoring 1960s models modified for his aggressive rhythm playing. He adopted the Telecaster around 1967, with a notable white example purchased in the mid-1970s that became his onstage mainstay for decades, often strung in to facilitate the band's boogie-rock style. For backups and studio work, Parfitt occasionally turned to models to achieve a thicker rhythm tone, particularly during recording sessions where the Les Paul's sustain complemented his choppy style. Parfitt's amplification setup centered on Marshall stacks, which provided the high-gain drive essential for Status Quo's live performances and recordings from the late onward. He frequently used or JCM900 heads paired with 4x12 cabinets to deliver the band's signature overdriven roar, as seen in tour rigs throughout the 1970s and 1980s. For cleaner tones in specific contexts, such as early psychedelic phases or studio overdubs, he incorporated amplifiers, including vintage models that added chime to his Telecaster's inherent twang. To support his forceful "chop" rhythm technique, Parfitt customized his Telecasters with heavier gauges, typically .014 to .056, which he maintained for over 40 years to ensure stability under intense strumming without excessive bending. He also made modifications, such as a wraparound setup inspired by Gibson designs, to minimize string movement and prevent injury during vigorous playing. Parfitt rarely employed effects pedals, preferring minimal processing through rack units like the GP-8 for subtle or volume boosts, keeping his sound raw and direct. Parfitt's musical influences drew heavily from American blues pioneers like , whose duckwalk rhythm and riffing shaped his early Telecaster approach and Status Quo's foundational boogie sound. British Invasion acts, including and , further informed his melodic sensibilities during his formative years in the . Over time, these roots evolved to incorporate country twang elements, evident in the Telecaster's bright articulation that Parfitt adapted for the band's enduring rock 'n' roll drive.

Personal life

Health challenges and addictions

Parfitt's struggles with began in the 1960s, when he experimented with during his early days performing in pubs and holiday camps. As Status Quo's fame grew in the , his drug use escalated to include , with Parfitt later admitting to spending up to £1,000 per week on the substance at its peak, alongside heavy consumption that included multiple bottles of and wine daily. This period of excess, fueled by the band's relentless touring and rock lifestyle, contributed to significant deterioration, including chronic of 30 cigarettes a day. A major health crisis occurred in 1997 during a U.S. tour, when Parfitt suffered a severe heart attack that necessitated emergency quadruple ; doctors warned him at the time that his lifestyle could prove fatal without immediate changes. Despite this, he continued aspects of his habits for years, leading to further cardiac episodes, including additional heart attacks in 2011 and 2014, the latter requiring surgery while on tour in . These incidents were directly linked to decades of and , prompting Parfitt to quit entirely following the 2011 event. In 2005, Parfitt underwent tests and for a growth on his suspected to be throat cancer, but it was confirmed benign. Parfitt also battled chronic conditions exacerbated by his lifestyle. Efforts toward sobriety intensified after 2000, with Parfitt reducing intake and attending support groups, though the pressures of touring led to occasional relapses in drinking and smoking until later interventions. These challenges strained his personal relationships, including family ties.

Marriages and family dynamics

Parfitt's first marriage was to Marietta Boeker in 1973. The couple had a son, Richard Parfitt Jr., born in 1974, followed by a daughter, , around 1977. Their family life was shattered in 1980 when two-and-a-half-year-old drowned in the swimming pool at their home, an event Parfitt later described as the "beginning of the end" for the marriage. The union ended in divorce in 1985. In 1988, Parfitt married Patty Beeden, his second wife and former girlfriend. They welcomed a son, , in 1989, but the marriage dissolved in 1996 amid personal challenges. Parfitt's third marriage, to Lyndsay Whitburn in August 2006, brought a renewed focus on family; the couple had twins, Tommy and Lily, in 2008 after IVF treatment when Whitburn was 48. The couple separated in 2016. Parfitt's experiences as a father evolved over time, shaped by his demanding career with Status Quo. With his older sons, Richard Jr. and Harry, he admitted to being largely absent, often on tour for seven to eight months a year and prioritizing the band's lifestyle over daily parenting responsibilities. He reflected, "I didn’t have the time or want to be bothered with the details of their everyday life." In contrast, with his twins, Parfitt became a more hands-on parent, spending significantly more time at home and deriving deep fulfillment from the role, stating, "I’ve finally discovered true happiness and contentment." The family relocated several times to accommodate Parfitt's lifestyle and professional needs, including a move to in the late 1970s for tax purposes during band recordings, and later to around 2007 with Whitburn, where they raised the twins. These changes allowed Parfitt to balance touring with family life more effectively in his later years, though he occasionally faced humorous challenges, such as being mistaken for the twins' grandfather while living abroad. His children provided ongoing support during career highs, with Richard Jr. pursuing music as a in his own band, echoing his father's legacy.

Later years and legacy

Final performances and retirement

In August 2014, Parfitt was hospitalized in , , during Status Quo's European tour due to complications from his previous heart surgery, resulting in the cancellation of six dates and highlighting the cumulative toll of his long-term health challenges. Despite this, he resumed performing with the band for their Aquostic Stripped Bare tour later that year, delivering acoustic renditions of Quo classics alongside through 2015. Parfitt also made guest appearances, such as at the Rock Meets Classic event in , , in March 2015, where he performed Quo hits like "In the Army Now" and in orchestral settings. Parfitt's final onstage appearance with came on June 14, 2016, at in , Turkey, shortly before he suffered a heart attack that necessitated emergency medical treatment and forced him to withdraw from the band's autumn tour. Following medical advice in September 2016, he stepped back from all activities for the remainder of the year to prioritize recovery and composition, including work on a long-planned solo album. On October 28, 2016, Parfitt formally announced his retirement from performing with Status Quo, explaining that after nearly 50 years of touring, he could no longer participate due to his health and expressing reluctance to attend the band's farewell electric shows without being involved. He remained engaged in songwriting and studio contributions post-2010, co-writing tracks and featuring on Quo's final album, Aquostic II – That's a Fact!, released on 21 October 2016, which included acoustic versions of songs. In reflections during this period, Parfitt conveyed satisfaction with his career legacy while acknowledging the burnout from decades on the road, noting the emotional difficulty of ending such an enduring partnership with Rossi.

Death and posthumous recognition

Rick Parfitt died on 24 December 2016 at the age of 68 in a in , , from a severe infection () that developed after shoulder surgery following a fall during a holiday. The infection arose from complications related to the injury, and despite medical intervention, Parfitt passed away on . His death elicited widespread tributes from bandmates, fans, and the music industry. frontman issued a heartfelt statement, saying, "I was not ready for this. Rick Parfitt had been a part of my story for fifty years. Without doubt the longest partnership I have had in my entire life." Fans gathered online and at memorials to celebrate his contributions, while the band paused activities briefly to grieve, reflecting on Parfitt's irreplaceable role in their five-decade history. Posthumously, Parfitt's debut solo album Over and Out was released on 23 March 2018 by earMUSIC, featuring 10 original tracks he recorded in 2016 with producer Jim McClain. The album, completed before his death, showcased his songwriting and vocals in a boogie-infused style, earning praise for highlighting his individual artistry. incorporated tributes into their live shows, dedicating performances to Parfitt during tours like the 2017 Aquarium outing. Legacy elements include the 2017 concert film : The Last Night of the Electrics, which documented the band's final electric tour at London's in late 2016—shortly after Parfitt's due to concerns—and served as a bittersweet homage to his era with the group. Parfitt's work and energetic stage presence helped define the genre, influencing generations of musicians through Status Quo's enduring catalog of over 100 million records sold worldwide.

References

  1. [1]
    Status Quo guitarist Rick Parfitt dies aged 68 - BBC News
    Dec 24, 2016 · Status Quo guitarist Rick Parfitt has died in hospital in Spain aged 68, his manager has said. He died from a severe infection after going to hospital on ...Missing: Stone | Show results with:Stone<|control11|><|separator|>
  2. [2]
    Rick Parfitt to miss first ever Status Quo gig - BBC News
    Aug 14, 2014 · Guitarist Rick Parfitt says he is "disappointed" to miss his first Status Quo gig since joining the British rock band in 1967.Missing: career | Show results with:career
  3. [3]
    Obituary: Rick Parfitt - BBC News
    Dec 24, 2016 · Rick Parfitt was one of rock's most recognisable guitarists. His partnership with Francis Rossi became the core of Status Quo, one of Britain's most enduring ...
  4. [4]
    Remembering Status Quo's Rick Parfitt - Louder Sound
    Dec 24, 2023 · Rick would really camp it up.” Parfitt didn't join The Status Quo (as they had become known) until 1967, by which time were enjoying their ...
  5. [5]
    Status Quo's 10 greatest songs, ranked - Gold Radio
    Aug 15, 2023 · Status Quo's 10 greatest songs, ranked · Burning Bridges · What You're Proposing · Roll Over Lay Down · Paper Plane · In the Army Now · Pictures of ...
  6. [6]
    Rick Parfitt – Top Songs as Writer – Music VF, US & UK hit charts
    Songs Written by Rick Parfitt - Top Songs / Chart Singles Discography - #1: Whatever You Want by Status Quo - #2: We're Gonna Do It Again by The Manchester ...
  7. [7]
    Rick Parfitt obituary | Status Quo - The Guardian
    Dec 24, 2016 · The singer and rhythm guitarist Rick Parfitt, who has died aged 68 from an infection, had been a pivotal member of the band even before it became known as ...
  8. [8]
    Rick Parfitt, Status Quo Guitarist, Dead at 68 - Rolling Stone
    Dec 24, 2016 · Rick Parfitt, guitarist in the British rock group Status Quo, died Saturday at the age of 68 following complications from a shoulder injury.Missing: biography | Show results with:biography
  9. [9]
    New Years honours list includes OBEs for Status Quo's ageing rockers
    Dec 30, 2009 · Rick Parfitt and Francis Rossi are recognised for services to music and to charity.
  10. [10]
    BBC News - Status Quo stars Parfitt and Rossi appointed OBEs
    Dec 31, 2009 · Status Quo rockers Rick Parfitt and Francis Rossi have been appointed OBEs for services to music and charity.
  11. [11]
    Rick Parfitt - Biography - IMDb
    Joined Status Quo in 1967. He suffered from health problems for many years. He underwent quadruple heart bypass surgery in 1997. He was diagnosed with throat ...<|separator|>
  12. [12]
    Rick Parfitt: My family values - The Guardian
    Jul 5, 2013 · I'm now married for a third time to Lindsay. I'll be 65 in October and I've got five-year-old twins, Tommy and Lily. This time I'm enjoying it ...Missing: personal | Show results with:personal
  13. [13]
    I've finally learned how to be a dad - Daily Express
    Jun 16, 2011 · Rick Parfitt loves spending time with Tommy and Lily his children with his third wife Lyndsay Rick Parfitt loves spending time with Tommy ...
  14. [14]
    Interview with Rick Parfitt of Status Quo - Ram Samudrala
    When I was a kid I wasn't very good academically. I received my first guitar when I was 10 and I immediately wanted to go into show business and form a ...Missing: biography Stone
  15. [15]
    Life of Status Quo guitarist Rick Parfitt is celebrated as a rock legend ...
    Dec 24, 2016 · In an interview with the Guardian in 2013 he revealed his father was an insurance salesman who was "a drinker and a gambler" and his mother ...Missing: scrap metal
  16. [16]
    Rick Parfitt's band before Status Quo revealed by drummer of former ...
    Jan 23, 2017 · "It was Rick's first time playing in a group. "The name of our group was The Demons, which only lasted about six months and was never well known ...
  17. [17]
    EARLY STATUS QUO - 7inchrecords
    It was at Butlins that they met Rick Parfitt (then going by the name of Ricky Harrison) who was in a band called The Highlights. ... - guitar. Rick Parfitt from ...
  18. [18]
    Rick Parfitt Obituary (1948 - 2016) - Portland, OR - The Oregonian
    Dec 25, 2016 · Rick Parfitt, the guitarist for the British rock band Status Quo, has died at the age of 68, according to multiple news sources.Missing: brother | Show results with:brother
  19. [19]
    Radio 2 - Sold On Song - Song Library - Paper Plane - BBC
    Rick Parfitt, Status Quo performed Paper Plane in their Radio One session on 20th November 1972. Paper Plane was the first single I ever bought - I've been ...
  20. [20]
    PICTURES OF MATCHSTICK MEN – STATUS QUO - Official Charts
    Latest chart stats about PICTURES OF MATCHSTICK MEN - peak chart position, weeks on chart, catalogue number, week-by-week chart placement and latest news.
  21. [21]
    Entertainment | The enduring appeal of Status Quo - BBC NEWS
    Dec 9, 2005 · Parfitt joined in 1967 and the band became Status Quo. Psychedelic debut. Psychedelic debut hit Pictures Of Matchstick Men was a hit in both ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  22. [22]
    Status Quo - British Boogie Rock Superstars - uDiscover Music
    One more personnel change – long-time keyboard player Roy Lynes had had enough – reduced them to the classic quartet of Rick Parfitt (guitar/vocals), Francis ...Missing: shift | Show results with:shift
  23. [23]
    Status Quo's Rick Parfitt entertained audiences and was the ... - ITVX
    Dec 24, 2016 · He was credited with co-writing a number of Status Quo tracks including Whatever You Want, Again And Again and Break The Rules. Parfitt ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  24. [24]
    'Piledriver': When Status Quo Hit Their Album Stride - uDiscover Music
    Jan 21, 2015 · Denim-clad Francis Rossi's lead vocals and Rick Parfitt's harmonies presided over a mesh of guitars, with a sound that the band were to make ...
  25. [25]
    Status Quo: Hello! - Album Of The Week Club review - Louder Sound
    Rating 4.0 · Review by Classic RockOct 3, 2021 · The Frantic Four. What a line-up. Francis Rossi, Rick Parfitt, Alan Lancaster and John Coghlan. Just typing those names gives me goosebumps.
  26. [26]
    Status Quo ? The Factsheet - Chris Hewlett
    Jun 4, 2013 · * In their 39 year history, it is estimated that QUO have played over 6000 live shows to a total audience in excess of 25 million people. In ...
  27. [27]
    When Status Quo rocked the world at Live Aid - Gold Radio
    Jul 13, 2025 · Status Quo's Francis Rossi: Rock star looks back at Rick Parfitt friendship five years after his death ... They had decided to stop touring.
  28. [28]
    Album review: RICK PARFITT – Over And Out - Get Ready to ROCK!
    Mar 4, 2018 · In all those years, Parfitt had never released any solo material. One had been recorded back in 1985, due to be called 'Recorded Delivery'.
  29. [29]
  30. [30]
    Review: "Parfitt, Rick: Over And Out/Over And Out (The Band's Mix)"
    Mar 10, 2018 · It was Christmas Eve 2016 that the awful news broke that Rick Parfitt, guitarist, singer and song writer for British rock stalwarts Status Quo, ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  31. [31]
    Strange Frontier - Roger Taylor
    Roger's friend and fellow musician, Rick Parfitt from Status Quo, co-wrote 'It's An Illusion' with Roger, as well as playing guitar, and John Deacon played bass ...
  32. [32]
    ‎It's an Illusion - Song by Roger Taylor - Apple Music
    Jan 1, 1984 · Listen to It's an Illusion by Roger Taylor on Apple Music. 1984 ... Rick Parfitt. Guitar. Composition & Lyrics. Roger Taylor. Composer ...
  33. [33]
    Dec 24, 2016: Rick Parfitt, Status Quo Guitarist—Obituary
    In 1984, Parfitt and Status Quo co-founder/lead singer/lead guitarist Francis Rossi appeared on the charity single, “Do They Know It's Christmas?” with Band ...
  34. [34]
    Rick Parfitt solo album Over And Out to receive posthumous release
    Dec 1, 2017 · Rick Parfitt's solo album Over And Out will be released in March - recorded by late Status Quo guitarist last year.Missing: Stranger | Show results with:Stranger
  35. [35]
    Posthumous release of the late Rick Parfitt's first-ever solo LP
    Dec 14, 2017 · The album is said to have been recorded and written with 'a band's spirit' between Parfitt and producer Jo Webb, and the songs were subsequently ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  36. [36]
    Hear 'Without You' From Rick Parfitt Solo Album 'Over And Out'
    Dec 17, 2017 · Without You, a song from the forthcoming solo album, Over And Out, from late Status Quo star Rick Parfitt, has been shared on digital ...
  37. [37]
    Rick Parfitt's Debut Solo Album 'Over And Out' To Receive ...
    Dec 6, 2017 · Created by Rick Parfitt and Producer Jo Webb, the record is a true labour of love and showcases the softer side of Rick as a writer, artist and ...
  38. [38]
    Goodbye Rick Parfitt, you were one of rock's heroes | Status Quo
    Dec 24, 2016 · People mocked Status Quo, but they were wrong – this was one of the most powerful British rock bands of all, and at their heart was Rick Parfitt's crushing ...
  39. [39]
    Rick Parfitt Soloalbum - Das sagen Brian May u. a. - FFM-Rock
    Mar 14, 2018 · Rick's strength as a player was his immediately recognisable style; very staccato, like his left hand was constantly bouncing off the strings.<|separator|>
  40. [40]
    Status Quo guitarist Rick Parfitt dies aged 68 - MusicRadar
    Dec 24, 2016 · After limited success with a psychedelic sound in the late '60s, Status Quo quickly evolved into a boogie rock act, building a loyal fanbase ...
  41. [41]
    George Michael and Rick Parfitt: two ends of a rich cultural mainstream
    Dec 28, 2016 · Status Quo evolved from psychedelically infused rock to the straight ahead, 12-bar based, boogie-driven hits for which they became best known.
  42. [42]
  43. [43]
    Rick Parfitt: Rock world pays tribute to Status Quo guitarist - BBC News
    Dec 25, 2016 · Queen guitarist Brian May has paid tribute to Status Quo star Rick Parfitt following his death aged 68, saying he had truly joyfully rocked our world.Missing: energetic delivery
  44. [44]
    Rick Parfitt Telecaster | - WordPress.com
    Mar 13, 2017 · We've assembled the guitar and added a set of heavy strings (10–52) which are not quite as heavy as Rick's 14–56 gauge set, but they are ...
  45. [45]
    Fender Telecaster Ex Rick Parfitt STATUS QUO ROCKIN ALL OVER ...
    ROCKIN' ALL OVER THE WORLDThe following instrument labelled “ RICK No I “ was personally owned and used by one of Britain's most favoured of all Rock 'n' ...
  46. [46]
    Getting That Sound: Rick Parfitt - Ultimate Guitar
    Aug 9, 2010 · Rick Parfitt has been perfecting his sound with Quo for 50 years now. For most tracks, he just needs the drive of his guitar and a Marshall, combined with his ...
  47. [47]
    Rick with a Les Paul | A Status Quo Forum - ProBoards
    He was using the White Tele early in '74... The bridge wasn't yet modified but it had definitely become his main stage guitar. Rick had a lot of Gibson guitars ...
  48. [48]
    Rick Parfitt - Equipboard
    Rick Parfitt uses a Fender Esquire in open G tuning. He employs two capos: one on the fourth fret for songs like "Little Lady" and "Most of the Time," and ...
  49. [49]
    Vintage 1964 Vox AC30 Top Boost Amplifier Combo Ex Rick Parfitt ...
    In stockFor Sale. Vintage 1964 Vox AC30 Top Boost Amplifier Combo Ex Rick Parfitt Status Quo, as used in the Vox Wall of Sound in the 1970s and 1980s.
  50. [50]
    Interview: Status Quo - No Substitute For Class - Guitar.com
    Mar 14, 2016 · Following the release of a new 'definitive' hits collection, Accept No Substitute, we speak to Francis Rossi and Rick Parfitt as Status Quo hit the road again.<|separator|>
  51. [51]
    Status quo Tunings
    The gauge of the strings Rick uses are: .14 .17 .26w .36w 46w 56w. (these are heavy gauge strings!) 1 Open G GGDGBD. Tune ...Missing: modifications | Show results with:modifications
  52. [52]
    Rick Parfitt's radical Tele bridge mod - has anybody else tried it?
    Dec 19, 2019 · I think Rick used ridiculously heavy strings, like 14 to 58! Click ... A lot of famous guitar mods were done at the time because of the parts that ...Rick Parfitt Inspired build - Telecaster Guitar ForumStatus Quo's TelecastersMore results from www.tdpri.com
  53. [53]
    Our Top 7 Telecaster Players & How To Sound Like Them!
    May 26, 2019 · And we've shortlisted seven (well, techically eight) of our favourite guitarists that use them to their fullest! Francis Rossi & Rick Parfitt.
  54. [54]
    Interview: RICK PARFITT of STATUS QUO - Eight Miles Higher
    Dec 28, 2016 · Rick Parfitt died 24 December 2016, aged sixty-eight. This is the full previously-unpublished transcript of an interview I did with him during his promotion ...
  55. [55]
    How Rick Parfitt paid the price for rockin' all over the world - Daily Mail
    Dec 26, 2016 · At the peak of his musical powers, he was spending £1,000 a week on cocaine · He quaffed whisky and red wine for breakfast, smoked 30 cigarettes ...Missing: addiction cannabis
  56. [56]
    Status Quo's Rick Parfitt: My heart attack felt like an elephant was sat ...
    Jul 3, 2013 · Unperturbed by a quadruple heart bypass in 1997, Status Quo rocker Rick Parfitt refused to tame his hedonistic lifestyle for a further 14 years until a massive ...Missing: early hobbies
  57. [57]
    Status Quo's Rick Parfitt treated after 'heart attack' - BBC News
    Jun 17, 2016 · ... heart bypass, which he underwent in 1997. Parfitt had been due to perform at the Rock On Windermere charity show on Saturday to raise funds ...Missing: pacemaker | Show results with:pacemaker
  58. [58]
    Status Quo cancel concerts because of Rick Parfitt illness - BBC News
    Aug 2, 2014 · Rock band Status Quo have been forced to cancel six concerts on their European tour because of illness affecting guitarist Rick Parfitt.
  59. [59]
    Richard John Parfitt (1948-2016) | WikiTree FREE Family Tree
    Sep 6, 2020 · Richard John Parfitt (1948 - 2016) ; Born 12 Oct 1948 ; in Woking, Surrey, England, United Kingdom ; Died 24 Dec 2016 at age 68 ; in Marbella, ...Missing: education hobbies<|control11|><|separator|>
  60. [60]
    Rick Parfitt: Relationships, Family, and Career Highlights - Mabumbe
    Dec 15, 2024 · He married his first wife, Marietta Boeker, in 1973, and they had a son, Richard, known as Rick Parfitt Jr., in 1974. The couple also had a ...
  61. [61]
    Rick Parfitt dating history
    Rick Parfitt was previously married to Lyndsay Whitburn (2006 - 2016), Patty Beedon and Marietta Boeker (1973 - 1985).
  62. [62]
    Classic Tracks: Status Quo 'Rockin' All Over The World'
    Bob Young, Rick Parfitt, Francis Rossi and Pip Williams (L-R) during recording of If You Can't Stand The Heat, the follow-up to Rockin' All Over The World, at ...
  63. [63]
    Better the denim you know | Pop and rock | The Guardian
    Nov 3, 2007 · Francis Rossi and Rick Parfitt walk into the green room, looking ashen. ... He and his new wife (his third) are off to Spain, where they now live.
  64. [64]
    Status Quo's Rick Parfitt Health Update - Best Classic Bands
    Although he had a previous attack and then quadruple heart bypass surgery in 1997 and subsequent heart attacks in 2011 and 2014, the band's management says his ...
  65. [65]
    Rick Parfitt @ Rock Meets Classic (Würzburg 14 March 2015)
    Mar 15, 2015 · Some bits of Rick Parfitt's performance at "Rock Meets Classic" in Würzburg (Germany) on 14 March 2015. "In The Army Now", Down Down" and ...
  66. [66]
    Status Quo's Rick Parfitt 'may have played last show' - The Telegraph
    Sep 15, 2016 · Status Quo guitarist Rick Parfitt may have played his last show with the band, it has been revealed today.
  67. [67]
    Rick Parfitt Of Status Quo Ordered To Stand Down For Rest Of 2016
    Sep 15, 2016 · According to the announcement, Parfitt will spend his downtime composing music for a long-planned solo album. The full statement: Status Quo ...
  68. [68]
    Rick Parfitt quits performing with Status Quo for good - BBC News
    Oct 28, 2016 · Rick Parfitt has said he won't return to Status Quo in any performing capacity. The 68-year-old had a heart attack in June and was forced to pull out of the ...Missing: total | Show results with:total
  69. [69]
  70. [70]
    Rick Parfitt: I won't return to Status Quo - Louder Sound
    Oct 26, 2016 · After 50 years of travelling the world together that's the very last thing I want.” The full interview with Parfitt will be published in the ...
  71. [71]
    STATUS QUO Frontman FRANCIS ROSSI Pays Tribute To RICK ...
    Dec 26, 2016 · STATUS QUO was forced to cancel a number of shows in 2014 after Parfitt was told by doctors to rest following surgery to correct a problem ...
  72. [72]
    Status Quo announce new tour dates following Rick Parfitt's death
    Jan 23, 2017 · The surviving members Francis Rossi, Andrew Bown, John 'Rhino' Edwards, Leon Cave and Richie Malone will perform four shows in support of their recent album ' ...
  73. [73]
    Status Quo's Last Night of the Electrics gig becomes concert movie
    Jul 7, 2017 · STATUS QUO will release their The Last Night of the Electrics gig, which took place after Rick Parfitt left the band, as a concert movie.Missing: documentary | Show results with:documentary
  74. [74]
    Tributes to Rick Parfitt - Lee Hawkins
    Rick Parfitt, who has died aged 68, was the singer and rhythm guitarist with Status Quo, the band which found a winning formula (the 12-bar boogie) in the 1970 ...