The Passing of Brian James: A Founding Member of The Damned

Brian James, a founding member and guitarist of the influential UK punk band The Damned, passed away on Thursday, March 6, 2025, at the age of 70. Known for his groundbreaking contributions to punk rock, James was a key figure in shaping the genre. A spokesperson from the record label Easy Action confirmed his peaceful passing, surrounded by his family. Brian James is remembered for his role in creating some of the band’s most iconic works, including the first UK punk single, New Rose, and the debut album Damned Damned Damned. His legacy as a pioneer of punk rock will continue to resonate with fans and musicians alike.

A Pioneer in Punk Rock: Brian James’s Legacy

Brian James’s impact on the music world was immense. As a founding member of The Damned, he played a crucial role in defining the band’s early sound and style. One of his most notable contributions was writing New Rose, which became the first single from a UK punk band. This single, released in 1976, marked a pivotal moment in the punk rock movement, setting the stage for the raw, rebellious sound that would dominate the late 1970s. James’s work on The Damned’s debut album, Damned Damned Damned, further cemented his reputation as a visionary musician. His innovative approach to songwriting and guitar work helped establish The Damned as one of the most influential bands of the era.

James’s influence extended beyond The Damned. He went on to explore other musical projects, including stints with Tanz Der Youth, The Lords Of The New Church, and his own band, The Brian James Gang. His relentless creativity and passion for music kept him active in the industry for decades, earning him widespread respect and admiration. Throughout his career, Brian James remained a true original, always pushing boundaries and refusing to conform to expectations.

Tributes and Remembrance: Celebrating Brian James’s Life

The news of Brian James’s passing has sparked an outpouring of tributes and memories from fans, friends, and fellow musicians. Raymond "Captain Sensible" Burns, The Damned’s bassist, took to Instagram to pay his respects. He described James as "the riffmeister" and reflected on their years of friendship and collaboration. Despite the sadness of losing his bandmate, Burns chose to celebrate James’s life, remembering him as a kind and generous person who never lost his temper, even in the face of challenging situations. "Brian was… an absolute gent," Burns wrote, recalling the good times they shared over the years.

A statement on Brian James’s Facebook page echoed similar sentiments, describing him as "one of the true pioneers of music" and a "true gentleman." The post highlighted his enduring creativity and passion for music, which remained steadfast throughout his career. "Brian passed peacefully on Thursday, March 6, 2025, with his wife Minna, son Charlie, and daughter-in-law Alicia by his side," it read. The statement served as a touching tribute to a man whose life was deeply intertwined with his art.

Brian James’s Post-Damned Career and Musical Ventures

After departing from The Damned following the release of their second album, Music For Pleasure, Brian James went on to explore a variety of musical avenues. One of his notable projects was Tanz Der Youth, a short-lived but impactful band. He later joined forces with American singer Stiv Bators and drummer Nick Turner to form The Lords Of The New Church. This new venture allowed James to expand his musical horizons, incorporating elements of glam and post-punk into his work. The Lords Of The New Church released a string of compelling tracks, including Open Your Eyes, Dance With Me, and Method To My Madness, each showcasing James’s ability to evolve as a songwriter and performer.

In addition to his work with The Lords Of The New Church, Brian James collaborated with other bands and embarked on solo projects. He also formed The Brian James Gang, further cementing his reputation as a versatile and innovative artist. Over the years, James’s music continued to inspire new generations of musicians and fans, ensuring his legacy as a pivotal figure in the punk rock movement.

The Damned’s Reunion and Final Performances

In 2020, Brian James made headlines when he announced that he would be reuniting with his original bandmates from The Damned. The reunion, which included lead singer Dave Vanian, drummer Christopher "Rat Scabies" Millar, and bassist Captain Sensible, marked a triumphant return to the stage for the band. Despite being more than four decades removed from their formation in 1976, The Damned managed to recapture the raw energy and spirit of their early days. James’s involvement in the reunion was a testament to his enduring love for music and his ability to reconnect with his bandmates on both a personal and professional level.

Performing with The Damned in 2022, Brian James reminded fans of his incredible talent and stage presence. Captain Sensible described the experience as "magical," noting that the band’s chemistry remained intact despite the years apart. "We were all up for doing it again too… but that’ll never happen now, sadly," Sensible reflected, acknowledging the bittersweet reality of James’s passing. The reunion served as a fitting celebration of The Damned’s groundbreaking career and James’s indelible mark on punk rock.

Final Tributes and Lasting Influence

As news of Brian James’s passing spread, fans and fellow musicians alike took to social media to share their memories and condolences. The Damned’s set in Sao Paulo, Brazil, on Friday, March 7, 2025, was dedicated to James, a heartfelt gesture to honor his contributions to the band and the punk rock movement. Captain Sensible poignantly stated, "Without whom The Damned would never ever have happened," emphasizing the importance of James’s role in the band’s formation and success.

Brian James’s legacy is one of creativity, rebellion, and perseverance. As a founding member of The Damned, he helped reshape the music landscape, inspiring countless artists who followed in his footsteps. His life was a testament to the power of music to transcend time and touch the hearts of people around the world. Though his passing leaves a void in the lives of those who knew and admired him, Brian James’s music, spirit, and influence will endure.