Musician Nik Turner, known for his stint with space rock band Hawkwind, has died at the age of 82. The musician used to play saxophone and flute, and was also a singer and composer.
Turner was famous for his experimental free jazz performances and his edgy stage presence. The flutist used to dress up in Ancient Egypt-inspired costumes during his sets. Read on to know more about Turner’s life and career.
Nik Turner Passes Away at 82
The news of Nik Turner’s demise was announced on his official Facebook page. A statement was posted that read, “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Nik Turner – The Might Thunder Rider, who passed away peacefully at home on Thursday evening.”
“He has moved onto the next phase of his Cosmic Journey, guided by the love of his family, friends and fans. Watch this space for his arrangements,” it read further. Rock band Motörhead also shared the news and tweeted, “We lost Lemmy’s old bandmate Nik Turner today. Play some Hawkwind nice and loud! Brainstorm here we go!”
Tributes Pour In for the Musician
Turner’s friends and fans paid their tributes to the musician as soon as the news of his demise broke. “RIP Nik Turner. Saw him play live many times – sometimes brilliant, sometimes shambolic but never boring and always a lovely man,” wrote a fan.
“R.I.P Nik Turner – I had the honor & pleasure of a memorable recording session with Nik. Afterward over Thai dinner, we talked about the world, music, and all things spirits (inc. spirit of Hawkwind). His spirit has touched many people over the years. May his spirit live onward,” another one wrote.
DJ Justin Robertson tweeted, “The throbbing heart of space ship Hawkwind for many years a wizard he continued to perform with just as much zeal right up to the last moment when he moved off into another dimension. Rest well, enjoy the new adventure wherever you are thank you for the music. Nik Turner RIP.”
“Rest in astral peace, Nik Turner. I had the pleasure to speak with him a few years ago and he was one of the most delightful interviews I’ve ever had, spacey in that ancient acidhead way and clearly just happy to still be doing his wild cosmic thing,” wrote another fan.
Turner Worked in the Music Scene for more than 40 Years
Turner was born in Oxford in 1940 and moved to the town of Margate in his teenage years. He then joined Merchant Navy and later traveled across Europe, taking up different jobs. In Berlin, he developed an interest in jazz music and started learning to play the saxophone. In 1969, he joined the newly formed band Hawkwind.
Turner soon became an integral part of the group and co-wrote some hit tracks, including Brainstorm and Master Of The Universe. He was, however, dismissed from the band in 1976 for playing over his bandmates. He then rejoined the band from 1982 to 1984.
The musician also turned to other projects and formed the band Space Ritual in 2000. Over the years, he teamed up with different artists, including Psychic TV, Stranglers, and Sham 69.
Our heartfelt condolences to Nik Turner’s family and friends. May his soul rest in peace!