Francis Buchholz, the longtime bassist of Scorpions during the group’s most successful years, has died at the age of 71.
The band confirmed the news in a public statement, acknowledging Buchholz’s role in shaping their sound and global rise. Buchholz joined Scorpions in the mid-1970s and remained a key member through the early 1990s, a period that produced many of the group’s best-known albums and songs.
He played bass on releases including Lovedrive, Blackout, Love at First Sting, and Crazy World, records that helped establish Scorpions as one of the most internationally recognized rock bands of their era. In addition to performing, Buchholz contributed as a songwriter on several tracks, adding to the band’s creative output during its commercial peak.
After departing the band in 1992, Buchholz continued working in music, including studio and production projects. His death marks the loss of a central figure from Scorpions’ classic lineup and a significant chapter in the band’s history.