Rick Davies, the co-founder and lead singer of the British rock band Supertramp, has passed away at the age of 81. The band announced his death on their website, stating that he died on Saturday after a prolonged battle with multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer, which he had been diagnosed with over a decade ago.

Davies was a pivotal figure in Supertramp, known for his soulful vocals and distinctive piano playing. He co-wrote many of the band's most famous songs alongside Roger Hodgson, including hits like "Goodbye Stranger" and "The Logical Song." The band's 1979 album, "Breakfast in America," became a massive success, topping charts in the United States and Canada, winning two Grammy Awards, and selling over 18 million copies.

Born on July 22, 1944, in Swindon, England, Davies developed a love for jazz, blues, and rock music at an early age. He began playing the drums and piano while participating in various British bands during the 1960s. In 1969, he placed an advertisement in a music paper seeking musicians, which led to the formation of Supertramp with Hodgson.

Initially, the band released two albums that had limited commercial success. However, their fortunes changed in 1974 with the release of "Crime of the Century," which featured popular tracks that helped establish their presence in the music industry. The dynamic between Davies and Hodgson, who had contrasting backgrounds and songwriting styles, contributed to the band's unique sound.

Despite their success, tensions arose within the band, particularly after Hodgson left in 1983 to pursue a solo career. Supertramp disbanded in 1988 but was revived by Davies in 1996. The group continued to perform until their final concert in Madrid in 2012.

In a statement, the band remembered Davies for his warmth, resilience, and dedication to his wife, Sue, with whom he shared over five decades. His contributions to rock music have left a lasting legacy.