Kevin “Geordie” Walker, guitarist for Killing Joke, has died at the age of 64. The news was revealed by his friend Luca Signorelli in a Facebook post.
The musician passed away in Prague, Czech Republic, after suffering a stroke. In the post, his colleague wrote: “This morning I received a phone call saying that Kevin 'Geordie' Walker had died a few hours ago in Prague, after a severe stroke last Friday” – see here.
Killing Joke then released a statement regarding Kevin's passing, writing: “It is with extreme sadness that we confirm that at 6:30 AM on November 26, 2023 in Prague, legendary Killing Joke guitarist Kevin 'Geordie' Walker passed away after suffering a stroke, surrounded by family. We are devastated. Rest in peace, brother.”
Martin Atkins of Killing Joke also confirmed Geordie's death by sharing a video of The Damage Manuel with the caption "destroyed." In the comments section, Atkins wrote "Geordie passed." He later also posted on X (formerly Twitter), writing: "#GodBless Geordie Walker" – see below.
Killing Joke emerged from the post-punk scene in the early 1980s, their self-titled debut album showcasing heavy rock and funky influences before electronic and synth-pop styles also filtered into their music.
Walker and Jaz Coleman (vocals, keyboards) were constant members of the lineup and have reunited with founding members Paul Ferguson (drums) and Martin “Youth” Glover (bass) since 2008.
In March, Killing Joke released a new single, “Full Spectrum Dominance,” via Spinefarm to celebrate the band's sold-out show at London's Royal Albert Hall.