A Zimbabwean-English bass player known for his work with various rock bands, including Duran Duran and Missing Persons, contributing to the iconic sound of 80s new wave and rock music.
Michael Dempsey, born on November 29, 1958, is an English musician best known for his role as the bassist for The Cure during their formative years. As a founding member, he played an integral part in shaping the band's early sound, which would go on to define the gothic rock genre.
Dempsey was born in Salisbury, Southern Rhodesia (now Harare, Zimbabwe), but his family soon settled in Crawley, West Sussex. It was here that he met his future bandmates, Robert Smith and Lol Tolhurst, at school. The trio, along with other classmates, formed their first band, Obelisk, in 1972, which eventually evolved into the Easy Cure and finally The Cure.
In 1978, The Cure officially formed, with Dempsey on bass, alongside Smith and Tolhurst. He played on their debut single, "Killing an Arab," and their first album, Three Imaginary Boys, released in 1979. Dempsey holds the distinction of being the only member, aside from Smith, to perform lead vocals on a released track, singing on the band's cover of Jimi Hendrix's "Foxy Lady."
During this period, Dempsey also contributed to the brief Cure side project, Cult Hero. However, he left the band in November 1979, due to creative differences with Smith, who was shifting the band's sound towards gothic rock. Dempsey was replaced by Simon Gallup, who would go on to become an integral part of The Cure's iconic lineup.
After leaving The Cure, Dempsey joined The Associates, a Scottish post-punk band, and appeared on their albums Fourth Drawer Down and Sulk. He also worked as a session and touring bassist for Roxy Music during this time. Following The Associates' frontman Billy Mackenzie's death in 1997, Dempsey took on the role of the band's archivist.
In the early 1980s, Dempsey joined the new wave band the Lotus Eaters, where he remained until 1985. His musical career has been marked by collaborations with various bands and projects, showcasing his versatility as a bassist.
Michael Dempsey's contributions to The Cure's early sound and development have had a lasting impact on the gothic rock genre. His unique bass lines and vocal contributions helped shape the band's distinctive style, which would go on to influence generations of musicians. Today, Dempsey continues to work behind the scenes, preserving the legacy of The Associates and The Cure.
54 Years Old
Former NFL player turned sportscaster, known for his charismatic commentary and analysis on ESPN's Sunday NFL Countdown. He's a household name among football fans, offering expert insights and opinions.
66 Years Old
The bassist and founding member of the iconic gothic rock band The Cure, known for his distinctive playing style and contributions to the band's dark, moody sound.
68 Years Old
A guitarist and songwriter, best known for his work with The Cure, contributing to their distinctive sound and style. His unique playing style and songwriting skills have made a lasting impact on the gothic rock genre.
