Introduction
More than two years after the passing of Status Quo’s legendary guitarist Rick Parfitt, his longtime bandmate and close friend Francis Rossi has opened up about the lingering emotional impact of that loss. Speaking on a recent episode of Lorraine, Rossi, now 69, reflected on the bond they shared and the grief that still follows him daily.
Rick Parfitt died on December 24, 2016, at the age of 68, after developing an infection linked to complications from a previous shoulder injury. His death marked the end of an era for Status Quo, a band known for its high-energy performances and enduring rock anthems like “Rockin’ All Over the World”.
“I Dream He’s Still Here”
During the interview, Rossi shared that for months after Rick’s passing, he would frequently dream about him—vivid moments that felt all too real.
“I dreamed about him a lot in the first year or so,” he said. “I’d suddenly be somewhere, and Rick would just be there. I’d turn to him and say, ‘I thought you were dead.’”
He continued, “Even on the day he died, he left the room on a stretcher, and they told us he was gone. But then he was placed on life support. And now, in my dreams, he’s just there with us, like nothing ever happened.”
Processing the Grief
The connection between Rossi and Parfitt spanned five decades, and the loss left a profound void. “We used to joke about who’d go first,” Rossi recalled. “One day, I was on the bus, just listening to one of Rick’s songs. It hit me—and I had a little tear.”
The reality of losing a friend and musical partner after so many years is something that Rossi says he still hasn’t fully accepted. The bond they shared was more than just professional—it was brotherhood.
Rick Parfitt’s Legacy Lives On
Parfitt is survived by his third wife, Lyndsay, to whom he was married for ten years, their twins Tommy and Lily, and his sons from previous relationships, Rick Jr. and Harry. His musical legacy, however, lives on in the hearts of fans and the history of rock music.
As a founding member of Status Quo, Rick helped shape the band’s iconic sound that captured global attention in the 1970s. Their energetic, riff-driven rock style earned them chart-topping hits such as “Whatever You Want” and “Down Down”, helping solidify their place in music history.
A Moment in Music History
One of the most unforgettable highlights of Rick’s career came during the historic Live Aid concert on July 13, 1985. Status Quo had the honor of opening the 16-hour event at Wembley Stadium with a powerful 15-minute set, broadcast live to millions around the world. It was a moment that sealed Parfitt’s status as a rock icon.
Though Rick Parfitt may be gone, the music, memories, and spirit he brought to the stage continue to resonate. For Francis Rossi, those memories are never far away—especially in dreams where Rick is still rocking right beside him.