The guitarist of the legendary Quebec band Offenbach, John McGale, died following a car accident on Sunday in Lacolle, Montérégie.
The road trip occurred on the rise of Odelltown and the vehicle came to an end against a tree before bursting into flames. John McGale was still in critical condition several hours after the tragedy, then he succumbed to his injuries.
He died on his birthday, at the age of 66, according to the Society of Composers, Authors and Music Publishers of Canada (SOCAN).
As well as being Offenbach’s guitarist since 1978, John McGale has composed some of the band’s best-known songs, such as rock of v’ours, Two more beers and I have the rock’n’roll bad you.
Offenbach enjoyed dazzling success during its existence, from 1972 to 1985. The group offered two grandiose performances on the stages of the Colisée de Québec and the Forum de Montréal, before disbanding.
The band’s lead singer, Gerry Boulet, died of cancer about five years after the split. However, the group reformed in 1997 with Martin Deschamps as singer. Offenbach will continue to be active in the 2000s, and John McGale will still be on guitar, and will also play other instruments such as saxophone.
On social networks, several personalities have mourned the departure of a great musician.
“I would like to offer my deepest condolences to all of his loved ones and family. Offenbach’s music will have marked Quebec forever, “said Quebec Premier François Legault on Twitter.
What sad news. John McGale, Offenbach’s guitarist, died this weekend in a road accident in Lacolle. I would like to offer my deepest condolences to all of his loved ones and family. Offenbach’s music will have marked Quebec forever.
— Francois Legault (@francoislegault) October 31, 2022
The drummer of Offenbach’s newest lineup, Michel Landry, said he would be forever indebted to him for taking him under his wing.
“He showed me the ropes of what to do and what not to do on stage, on the road and in life too,” he wrote, saying he thanked him for his wisdom. , his laughter and his friendship.