Remembering the Free co-founder, bassist and songrwiter Andy Fraser
In 1968, Fraser co-founded the rock band Free that scored the massive hit “All Right Now,” co-written by Fraser, which became a rock anthem and remains one of the most recognized rock songs of all time
Remembering the Free co-founder, bassist and songrwiter Andy Fraser
Andy Fraser was born on July 3, 1952, in Paddington, London, England. Growing up in a multicultural environment, Fraser developed an early love for music. His talent for playing the bass guitar became evident during his teenage years, leading him to pursue a career in music at a young age.
Fraser’s musical career began in the mid-1960s when he joined John Mayall & the Bluesbreakers at the age of 15, after being recommended by Alexis Korner. This experience proved invaluable, allowing him to practice his skills and gain exposure to the blues scene.
In 1968, Fraser co-founded the rock band Free with Paul Rodgers, Paul Kossoff, and Simon Kirke. The band’s soulful blues-rock sound quickly gained popularity. Fraser’s bass playing and songwriting were pivotal to the band’s success. Their biggest hit, “All Right Now,” co-written by Fraser, became a rock anthem and remains one of the most recognized rock songs of all time. The song’s success was instrumental in Free’s breakthrough and their album “Fire and Water” (1970) achieving commercial success.
After Free disbanded in 1973, Fraser formed the band Sharks and later The Andy Fraser Band, exploring different musical styles and continuing to write and perform. His work extended beyond his own bands as he collaborated with other artists, contributing his songwriting and production skills.
In the 1980s and 1990s, Fraser’s career took a different turn as he became involved in various projects, including songwriting for artists like Robert Palmer, Joe Cocker, and Chaka Khan. Despite facing health challenges, including a diagnosis of HIV, Fraser remained active in the music industry, and also begun to advocate for social and health issues.
Fraser’s personal life was marked by both triumphs and challenges. He was openly gay, which was relatively rare and courageous for someone in the rock industry during his time. His advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights and his openness about his HIV status were significant aspects of his later life, highlighting his commitment to using his experiences to help others.
Fraser had two daughters, Hannah and Jasmine, from his marriage to Henrietta, which ended in divorce.
Andy Fraser passed away on March 16, 2015, at his home in Temecula, California, at the age of 62. His death was attributed to a combination of health issues, including HIV and cancer. Despite his early passing, Fraser’s impact on rock music and his contributions as a bassist and songwriter remain influential.
Today, Andy Fraser’s legacy in the music industry is enduring not only as a founding member of Free, with his contributions to rock music, particularly with the hit “All Right Now,” but also his innovative bass playing and songwriting skills which set a high standard in rock music.
Look back at Free performing their hit “All Right Now” in 1970
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