Remembrances offered for the exceptionally skilled and forward-thinking musician Stephen Luscombe of Blancmange, following his passing
Stephen Luscombe, Keyboard Player and Multi-Instrumentalist of Synth-Pop Band Blancmange, Passes Away
Stephen Luscombe, a key figure in the synth-pop scene of the 1980s as a member of the band Blancmange, has passed away at the age of 70. The news was confirmed by Neil Arthur, Luscombe's partner in the band, over the weekend on Facebook.
Luscombe and Arthur formed Blancmange in 1979 and quickly made a name for themselves with their innovative sound. Their first Top 40 hit, Living On The Ceiling, was released in 1982 and reached the Top Ten, setting the stage for a string of successful singles over the next three years. Boy George, a contemporary chart artist, credited Luscombe and Arthur for making one of the most seminal electro tracks of the era.
Blancmange's cover of Abba's The Day Before You Came charted higher than the original, further solidifying their position in the synth-pop landscape. The band was also included on the 1981 Some Bizarre compilation album alongside The The and Soft Cell. Soft Cell described Luscombe as a unique, talented, and innovative musician, and posted their condolences on Facebook.
After the band's split in 1986, Luscombe pursued his interest in Indian music in the West India Company. He recorded with tabla master Pandit Dinesh and Asha Bhosle, and Boy George recalled a trip to India with Luscombe. Luscombe and Arthur reunited in 2011 and released the fourth Blancmange album, Blanc Burn.
Blitzed Magazine expressed their sadness at Luscombe's passing and extended their condolences to his family and friends. The duo signed to London Records, and their music continues to influence a new generation of synth-pop artists. Luscombe's contributions to the music industry will not be forgotten.
The cause of Luscombe's death has not been publicly attributed to any individual. He was reported to have died in 2025, but no information indicates someone caused his death intentionally or by accident.
Rest in peace, Stephen Luscombe. Your music will live on.
