Guitarist of legendary Quebec band Offenbach, John McGale, died in a car accident on Sunday in Lacolle, Montérégie.
The road trip took place on the Odelltown high ground and the vehicle stopped against a tree before catching fire. John McGale was in critical condition several hours after the tragedy, before succumbing 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).
In addition to being Offenbach’s guitarist since 1978, John McGale has composed some of the band’s most famous songs, such as rock of ours, Two more beers et I have bad rock’n’roll for you.
Offenbach had a tremendous 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 breaking up.
The band’s lead singer, Gerry Boulet, died of cancer about five years after they broke up. The group however reformed in 1997 with Martin Deschamps as lead 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 the saxophone.
On social networks, several personalities have mourned the departure of a great musician.
“I would like to extend my heartfelt condolences to all your loved ones and family. Offenbach’s music will have marked Quebec forever, “Quebec Premier François Legault tweeted.
What sad news John McGale, the guitarist of Offenbach, died this weekend in a car accident in Lacolle. I would like to extend my heartfelt condolences to all his loved ones and his family. Offenbach’s music will have marked Quebec forever.
– Francois Legalault (@francoislegault) October 31, 2022
Offenbach’s new lineup drummer Michel Landry said he would forever be 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 even in life,” he wrote, saying thank him for his wisdom, his laughter and his friendship.
