Scorpions and Michael Schenker Bassist, Francis Buchholz, Dead at 71, Following Private Cancer Battle
The rock world is in mourning following the loss of legendary musician Francis Buchholz, best known as the longtime bassist for iconic German rock band Scorpions. His family confirmed in a heartfelt statement that Buchholz passed away peacefully at the age of 71 after a private battle with cancer.
Francis Buchholz’s Time with Scorpions
Buchholz was a pivotal figure in the German hard rock scene, anchoring the low end for the Scorpions during their most commercially successful era. From 1974 to 1992, his steady, driving rhythms helped birth some of the band’s biggest hits, which include “Rock You Like a Hurricane,” “No One Like You,” and the poignant anthem of unity, “Wind of Change.”
A Quiet Battle with Cancer
While fans knew Buchholz as a powerful stage presence, his final days were spent sadly fighting a private fight. In a touching social media post, his family revealed the bassist had been facing his illness with the same quiet strength he brought to his life and music. The family wrote:
“It is with overwhelming sadness and heavy hearts we share the news that our beloved Francis passed away yesterday after a private battle with cancer…He departed this world peacefully, surrounded by love.”
They emphasized the unity of their family during his final moments, beautifully stating:
“Throughout his fight with cancer, we stayed by his side, facing every challenge as a family – exactly the way he taught us.”
A Legacy Carved in Rock
Born in Hanover, Germany, in 1954, Buchholz joined the Scorpions in 1973, replacing Lothar Heimberg. His arrival marked the beginning of the band’s classic lineup. Over the next two decades, he played on a dozen albums, helping the band transition from psychedelic rockers to international superstars. His bass contribution wasn’t merely in performance; Buchholz was a key part of the songwriting team. He notably co-wrote “Kicks After Six” from the multi-platinum album Crazy World.
After leaving the Scorpions in the early 90s, Buchholz didn’t hang up his bass for good. He later reunited with former bandmate Michael Schenker, touring and recording with Michael Schenker’s Temple of Rock. Former bandmates, including Uli Jon Roth, expressed their sorrow, with Roth simply stating, “Very saddening! We were friends.”
The family’s statement closed with an emotional message to the fans who supported him for nearly five decades:
“Though the strings have gone silent, his soul remains in every note he played and in every life he touched.”
For millions of fans who grew up listening to the thunderous basslines of “Love at First Sting” or “Blackout,” Francis Buchholz remains an iconic, talented, and unforgettable pillar of rock history.
