RIP: Ed Gagliardi, Original Bassist For Foreigner

The news was broken late Sunday night by Gagliardi’s daughter, Nicole, on the bassists Facebook fan page:

Now that information has circulated, I would like to prevent misinformation and be the one to let everyone know that my father, Ed Gagliardi, passed away tonight at 7:40, after 8 years of battling cancer. There are no words. We appreciate your prayers and well wishes. We are shocked and heartbroken, thank you for your loyal fandom of an amazing man. I love you Daddy.

A tribute was written early Monday morning by former Foreigner vocalist Lou Gramm on his Facebook page.

It is with a heavy heart that I let fans know that Foreigners original Bassist Ed Gagliardi passed away last night.

I had spoken to Ed just a few weeks ago & we were making plans to meet at my show in Orlando Florida on July 31. Rest in peace Ed .. Always your Band mate. Lou

Gagliardi was part of the half-British, half-American original lineup of Foreigner that also included founder Mick Jones, Gramm, Al Greenwood, Ian McDonald and Dennis Elliott. The band was signed to Atlantic Records at the urging of A&R executive John Kalodner leading to the release of their debut album, Foreigner, in March of 1977. That album established them as a major force with top twenty US hits Feels Like the First Time, Cold as Ice) and Long, Long Way From Home.

Their second album, Double Vision, was released in June 1978 and saw them hit with Hot Blooded, Double Vision and Blue Morning, Blue Day (1979 / #15).

Gagliardi parted ways with Mick Jones and Foreigner prior to the recording of their third album, Head Games, over creative differences. He went on to form the group Spys with his former Foreigner bandmate Al Greenwood. The band recorded two albums, Spys and Behind Enemy Lines.