Nik Turner, the saxophonist, flautist, vocalist, and founding member of the psychedelic rock band Hawkwind has died at the age of 82, surrounded by his family.
His death was confirmed on his Facebook page and official website on Friday, November 11 with the words: "We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Nik Turner – The Mighty Thunder Rider, who passed away peacefully at home on Thursday evening. He has moved onto the next phase of his Cosmic Journey, guided by the love of his family, friends and fans." His family added funeral arrangements are still being finalised.
In a family tribute, penned by his son Elffin Farnon-Turner, he was described as "a man of the people who lived and breathed music". Born Nicholas Robert Turner on August 26, 1940 in Oxford, Turner’s family later relocated to the Kent seaside resort of Margate when he was 13. There he was exposed to rock music and the films of James Dean. After studying saxophone in his early 20s and while he started out as a roadie for Hawkwind in 1969, he soon joined the band as their saxophonist, flutist and vocalist.
