Badfinger's Joey Molland dies as 'day we never wanted to see has arrived'

Badfinger star Joey Molland has died aged 77.

An announcement was shared on the band's Facebook page. "Well, the day we never wanted to see has arrived. Joey (Joseph Charles) Molland passed away last night, surrounded by Mary, his two sons, and other family members at 11:39pm CST. When I receive the information regarding arrangements, I will post them here," the statement read.

"I was in bed when it occurred... and I woke up to this news, so I'm sorry for the delay. I've already seen a few posts in my personal feed, and a half dozen PMs were sent this morning. (Thank you for the sympathies.) Needless to say, although I knew the situation was bad, it was still a shock to the system.

"I'm sure if you're reading this for the first time, it's a shock to yours, as well. Long Live Badfinger. Thank you, Joey... for keeping the band's music alive for so long and for being a friend to us all." They went on to add a statement from the Ham estate, which stated: "The Ham estate - Are sorry to hear about the death of Joey Molland. Our condolences to his family at this difficult time. Anne, Petera and Luca."

While the cause of death remains unconfirmed, heartfelt tributes have been flooding in for Joey. Initially a part of Gary Walker and the Rain, Joey joined Badfinger – at first known as The Iveys – in 1969 and even featured on two albums by Beatles legend George Harrison. Their best-known lineup consisted of Pete Ham, Mike Gibbins, Tom Evans, and Joey Molland.

They chose the name Badfinger after the working title for The Beatles' With A Little Help from My Friends' (Bad Finger Boogie) working title. Over the course of five years, the band recorded five albums for Apple Records and went on many tours before they became embroiled in the chaos of Apple's dissolution.

Given both musicians hailed from Edge Hill, Liverpool, their close relationship was understandable. In 1974, Molland left Badfinger due to management disputes but later reunited with bandmate Tom Evans for two albums. Badfinger had four hits from 1970 to 1972, including Come and Get It, No Matter What, Day After Day and Baby Blue.

Unfortunately, Pete took his own life in 1975. Tom died by suicide eight years later and Mike died from a brain aneurysm in 2005, leaving Joey as the classic line-up's only surviving member until his death this month.