The band is most notable for “Turn Up The Radio”

Randy Rand, founding bassist for the 80s band Autograph, has died at the age of 62. No cause a death was revealed, but the band shared a lengthy statement on Rand’s passing on Tuesday (Apr 26th).

“It is with great sorrow and heavy hearts to announce the unexpected passing of our cherished friend and founding member of Autograph, Randy Rand,” the group shares on social media.

“At the time of death, Randy was surrounded by his beautiful and infinite love, Regina Rand and family.

“Although beyond devastated, we find some comfort and solace knowing the last couple of years have been some of his happiest as an artist and as a performer. Randy was the consummate optimist and was so excited to see the new direction, creativity and renewed energy with the band. You could feel his excitement- as it was quite palpable with his playing abilities, performances and the way he interacted with his beloved fans.

“As many of you know, Randy arrived in the late 70s Sunset Strip music scene and was an accomplished musician and seasoned studio musician when he rose to prominence as an original member of Autograph.

“Fast forward 40 years, our brother was still making an impact in the music arena with his charismatic stage presence, musical contributions, most notably, with our new album release and collaboration with Frontiers.

“Regrettably, there is only one Randy- a fabulous bassist band mate, brother, and human being. Collectively in the last couple of years with this formation, we spent numerous hours that turned into something magical while creating an unbreakable bond few bands are fortunate enough to ever experience. We had that…and with that, we will continue to honor Randy Rand, as he would want us to and honor our musical commitments and keep his legacy alive.

“At this time…we ask that you respect our privacy and we thank you for the continued love, support and light that all of you have shown him and us as we navigate these sad days ahead of us.”

Rand formed Autograph in Pasadena, CA in 1983 with vocalist Steve Plunkett, guitarist Steve Lynch, keyboardist Steven Isham and drummer Keni Richards. The group rose to fame during the Sunset Strip 80s heydays and produced a single Top 40 hit, “Turn Up The Radio.”

They released three albums before disbanding in 1989 when Rand began a career in leather making. Rand reunited with Lynch and Richards in 2013 and recruited vocalist Simon Daniels after discovering him on YouTube.

Rand was the only original member at the time of his death. Reports indicate he was working on new music when he passed.

https://www.facebook.com/autographband/posts/525486102279506