(25 October 1951 – 7 November 2026)
Most of the social media posts commemorating Lloyd reference only his contribution to the band Television, as if this were the pinnacle of his craft as musician, even for just two albums in a very brief time span compared to the rest of his life and career. Lloyd was so much more than just the other guitarist, although a very important link in that chain, in Television and one only has to read his biography to realise this.
Not only was he Johhny-on-the-spot in regard to the New York counter culture and music scene in the late ‘60s and in ‘70s, he was a gifted, innovative and versatile guitarist who never achieved the solo fame and fortune he probably deserved. There are many conversations with him on YouTube and there is a solid back catalogue of albums that showcase his rock ‘n roll credentials, equal parts tough and melodic.
Lloyd and the late Wayne Kramer are the two most articulate musicians I’ve encountered on YouTube from the perspectives of storytelling and intriguing insights into the life and work of musicians who are famous and influential yet never enjoyed substantial mainstream success.
I, too, think that Marquee Moon is one of the best rock albums to date but Lloyd’s solo debut, Alchemy, is also a firm favourite and the two combine to illuminate exactly what Lloyd’s musical talents were, the edginess of the former and the exhilarating pop sensibility of the latter.
Lloyd may not have been a genius but he was boss.
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