A founding guitarist of Showaddywaddy, Trevor Oakes, has died at 79 after a long illness, leaving behind a legacy as one of the band’s original driving forces.
Cornwall Live reported that the iconic guitarist retired from performing in 2009 due to ongoing health issues, bringing an end to his decades of on-stage success.
GettyThe Daily Mail reported that he passed away peacefully on February 18, according to a statement shared by former frontman Dave Bartram. Formed in the early 1970s, Showaddywaddy became a standout act in the UK’s rock and roll revival movement.
Drawing inspiration from the sounds of the 1950s and early 1960s, the group built a devoted following and went on to enjoy major chart success throughout the decade.
Showaddywaddy also found early success on “New Faces,” a popular talent show often compared to today’s “Britain’s Got Talent.”
Gold Radio reported that in the summer of 1973, Showaddywaddy’s rising momentum led to a breakthrough appearance on “New Faces,” where they impressed both viewers and industry insiders. The exposure sparked a wave of interest from record companies, culminating in a contract with Bell Records.
Dave Bartram Pays Emotional Tribute to Bandmate
GettyIn a heartfelt statement, Bartram remembered his longtime friend and bandmate Oakes with warmth and gratitude. In the statement published by The Daily Mail, he added:
“Trevor was a unique character and a dedicated professional, without whom the band would never have quite scaled the dizzy heights we seemed destined to achieve. He was also a caring and affectionate family man, with a mischievous sense of humour, which will be sadly missed by all those dear to him.”
He added, “I could write a book about the incredible memories we’ve shared over the past fifty-seven years, but most of all, I thank him from the bottom of my heart for his unwavering friendship. Your true friend, Dave.”
Chart Success & Lasting Musical Legacy
As per their official website, Showaddywaddy broke through in the 1970s with a steady run of chart success, landing multiple Top 10 singles.
GettyTheir cover of “Under the Moon of Love” became their biggest hit, reaching No. 1 in 1976.
Blending nostalgia with infectious energy, the group carved out a distinct place in a rapidly evolving music scene.
Even after their chart dominance faded, Showaddywaddy remained a live favorite, continuing to draw multigenerational audiences with their timeless sound.
How the Band Evolved Through the Years
Although Showaddywaddy continues to tour, only one original member, Romeo Challenger, remains in the current lineup.
Dave Bartram, who fronted the band for nearly 40 years before stepping away in 2011, now manages the group. Today’s lineup includes Andy Pelos, Tom Bull, Sam Holland, Billy Shannon, and David Graham.
The band was first formed in 1973 in Leicester, when members of two local groups came together after sharing a bill at a pub. That moment laid the foundation for a career that would span decades.
Over the years, the lineup shifted as original members departed and new performers joined, helping keep the band’s signature sound alive for new audiences.
