R.I.P. Autograph bassist and founding member Randy Rand

R.I.P. Autograph bassist and founding member Randy Rand

Sleaze Roxx has some very sad news to report as Autograph‘s long-time bassist Randy Rand has passed away. The cause of his death is unknown at this time. Rand was in Autograph from 1983 to 1989 and again from 2013 onwards. He was the lone remaining original member in the band. Three of the five original Autograph band members have now passed away with Rand in 2022, keyboardist Steven Isham in 2008 and drummer Keni Richards in 2017.

Discography:
Autograph — Sign In Please (1984)
Autograph — That’s The Stuff (1986)
Autograph — Loud And Clear (1988)
Autograph — Missing Pieces (1997)
Autograph — Louder (2016)
Autograph — Get Off Your Ass (2017)

The following messages have been posted on various Facebook accounts earlier today:

Autograph:

“It is with great sorrow and heavy hearts to announce the unexpected passing of our cherished friend and founding member of Autograph, Randy Rand.

At the time of death, Randy was surrounded by his beautiful and infinite love, Regina Rand and family.

Although beyond devastated, we find some comfort and solace knowing the last couple of years have been some of his happiest as an artist and as a performer. Randy was the consummate optimist and was so excited to see the new direction, creativity and renewed energy with the band. You could feel his excitement- as it was quite palpable with his playing abilities, performances and the way he interacted with his beloved fans.

As many of you know, Randy arrived in the late 70s Sunset Strip music scene and was an accomplished musician and seasoned studio musician when he rose to prominence as an original member of Autograph.

Fast forward 40 years, our brother was still making an impact in the music arena with his charismatic stage presence, musical contributions, most notably, with our new album release and collaboration with Frontiers.

Regrettably, there is only one Randy– a fabulous bassist band mate, brother, and human being. Collectively in the last couple of years with this formation, we spent numerous hours that turned into something magical while creating an unbreakable bond few bands are fortunate enough to ever experience. We had that…and with that, we will continue to honor Randy Rand, as he would want us to and honor our musical commitments and keep his legacy alive.

At this time…we ask that you respect our privacy and we thank you for the continued love, support and light that all of you have shown him and us as we navigate these sad days ahead of us.”

Jimi Bell (Autograph bandmate and guitarist):

“It is very difficult to express what I’m feeling at this moment. Randy wasn’t just my band mate. We had become the dearest of friends and I loved him as if he was my blood brother. We shared countless wonderful moments together on stage and off. My heart is broken into pieces for Regina Rand. She and Randy were soulmates . They loved each other more than words can say. Randy Rand was one of a kind and will be missed by so many. He was extremely proud of the new record we recorded and gave an incredible performance. At this time please respect Regina and the Rand family as they grieve over this terrible tragedy!! I love you and miss you so much my brother R.I.P”

Regina Rand (Randy Rand‘s wife):

“This is Doris on behalf of Regina. It is with great sorrow and heavy hearts. To announce the unexpected passing of Randy Rand. We are asking that everyone please give the family. Their time to process and grief. They both love all of you.”

Simon Daniels (Autograph bandmate and frontman):

“My brother is in my heart forever”

Marc Wieland (Autograph bandmate and drummer):

“In deep shock, completely heartbroken and utterly devastated I have to share this sad news with you today.”

Autograph‘s “Turn Up The Radio” video:

Autograph‘s “Blondes In Black Cars” video:

Autograph‘s “Every Generation” video: