Richard Tandy, the longstanding keyboardist of Electric Light Orchestra (ELO), has passed away at 76. His former bandmate Jeff Lynne confirmed the news, praising Tandy's musical talent and friendship. Tandy joined ELO in 1972, transitioning from bass guitarist to keyboardist. He contributed to many of ELO's classic hits including 'Mr. Blue Sky' and 'Evil Woman'. Tandy was a core member until the band's disbandment in 1986, returning for reunions in the 2000s and 2014-2017. The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame recognised Tandy's impact on ELO's unique sound blending rock and classical music.

"Richard Tandy, the long-serving keyboardist for Electric Light Orchestra (ELO), has passed away at the age of 76.

Tandy's former bandmate and ELO founder Jeff Lynne shared the news on social media on Wednesday night (1st May), writing: 'It is with great sadness that I announce the passing of my long-time collaborator and dear friend Richard Tandy. He was a remarkable musician and friend, and I will cherish the lifetime of memories we had together.'

The cause of death has not yet been disclosed.

Tandy joined Electric Light Orchestra after the release of the band's debut album in 1972. Initially a bass guitarist, Tandy soon became the band's permanent keyboardist.

Throughout various line-up changes, Tandy remained a key member alongside Lynne and ELO drummer Bev Bevan until the band's disbandment in 1986. Tandy was one of the few longstanding members to join the band's reunion in the 2000s and was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame with Electric Light Orchestra in 2017. Tandy's tenure with ELO spanned from 1972 until 1986, with a reunion period from 2000 to 2001, and finally from 2014 to 2017.

Richard Tandy is best known for his contributions to several of ELO's iconic hits, including 'Mr. Blue Sky', 'Xanadu' with Olivia Newton-John, 'Evil Woman', 'Telephone Line', 'Strange Magic', and more.

Lynne and Tandy also collaborated on non-ELO projects, such as the Electric Dreams soundtrack. In 2015, they performed with Ed Sheeran at the 57th Grammy Awards, playing 'Evil Woman' and 'Mr. Blue Sky'.

In 1985, Tandy formed the Tandy Morgan Band with Dave Morgan and Martin Smith, both of whom were touring members of ELO. The Tandy Morgan Band released the concept album 'Earthrise' in 1985.

Following Richard Tandy's passing, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame paid tribute to the late keyboardist.

'Keyboardist Richard Tandy was an integral part of the sound of 2017 inductees Electric Light Orchestra,' the Rock Hall stated. 'Playing a range of keyboard instruments, his riffs provided the foundation for hits like 'Mr. Blue Sky' and 'Evil Woman'. Tandy was crucial in ELO's creation of a realm where rock and classical music could exist together.'"