Pete Doherty pays tribute to Babyshambles' Patrick Walden as he dies age 46
Patrick Walden, the guitarist for the iconic band Babyshambles, sadly passed away at the age of 46. The news was confirmed on the group's social media on Friday night (20 June), with a heartfelt statement: "It is with deep regret and sadness that we share the news of Patrick Walden's death," they expressed.
"We feel very fortunate to have known, loved and worked with him and we kindly ask for respect and privacy during these difficult times. Peter, Drew, Mik, Adam."
Frontman Pete Doherty, who had previously hailed Walden as "the best guitar player I've ever worked with", shared the sorrowful announcement on his own pages in a tribute to the late musician.
Formed by Doherty in 2003, amid a break from The Libertines due to his struggles with addiction, Babyshambles quickly made a mark with Walden's distinctive guitar playing helping to forge hits such as "Kilamangiro" and "Delivery".
Despite disbanding in 2014, Walden had left the ensemble slightly earlier, in 2005, due to his own battles with drugs. Although Walden would occasionally appear at Babyshambles performances following his departure, a full comeback was never realised.
Over the years Walden talked openly about his problems with drug addiction and spells of sobriety. In February 2016, Walden was found by neighbours at the bottom of a flight of concrete steps near his North London home.
In 2023, Walden reflected on his sobreity in a 22 Grand Pod podcast episode.
"Since I turned 40 I haven't taken a drink or anything. It's quite nice to say that. But my whole relationship towards it has changed. I don't want it anymore," he said.
His contribution to music, however, endures through songs like "The Man Who Came to Stay", which showed off both his guitar skills and songwriting talent.
As tributes flood in on the internet, fans remember him as a legendary figure in music, with poignant comments like: "The best guitarist of my generation. Nobody's sounded as good since Asheton in the Stooges."
The Paddingtons, a fellow indie band, added: "You're gonna be missed Pat, best guitarist we ever met, one of the good guys. Rest in peace mate."
A fan shared a touching memory with the musician, writing: "I'm devastated by this news. Pat was a kind soul. I remember his kind words and how he helped me after I was assaulted in Camden. An incredible musician. My deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. "
Another person commented: "He was an absolute legend and a huge part of the iconic sound of the first album and gigs around that time I was really hoping he would be part of the reunion absolutely devastating news."
Doherty is set to perform with The Libertines on Glastonbury's Pyramid Stage in a week's time. The band's current line-up includes Doherty, McConnell, Mick Withnall, and Adam Ficek.
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