Journey co-founder George Tickner dies aged 76

The RIP Famous Person Thread-george-tickner-journey-dead-jpg


Journey co-founding member and first rhythm guitarist George Tickner has died at the age of 76.
The sad news of Tickner’s passing was confirmed by Journey guitarist and sole constant member Neal Schon, who wrote: “George Tickner, Journey’s original rhythm guitarist and songwriting contributor on their first three albums, has passed away. He was 76 years old.

“Godspeed, George… thank you for the music… our condolences to his family and friends, and to all past and present band members. So heartbreaking.”

He added: “Thank you for your incomparable contributions to Journey’s early years. The reason he left Journey was to attend Stanford University on full scholarship, earning his PhD.

“Fly free above the stars, Sir… Herbie (Herbert, Journey’s manager who died in 2021) is waiting to greet you.”

Schon also posted a YouTube video confirming Tickner’s death on Twitter, and wrote: “RIP George. You now fly with the angels.”

Born on 8th September 1946, in Syracuse, New York, George Tickner was a member of the psychedelic rock band Frumious Bandersnatch in the late 60s alongside bassist Ross Valory.

Tickner, Valory and manager Herbie Herbert joined former Santana members Neal Schon and Gregg Rolie to form Journey in 1973.

Tickner played rhythm guitar and wrote three songs for Journey’s self-titled 1975 debut ‘Journey’ including opener ‘Of a Lifetime.’

Shortly after the release of ‘Journey’, Tickner left the band to attend Stanford Medical School on a full scholarship, however three of his co-written songs appeared on Journey’s next two albums ‘Look into the Future’ (1976) and ‘Next’ (1977).

Tickner remained friends with his former Journey band mates and in 2005 he formed the band VTR alongside Valory and keyboardist Stevie 'Keys' Roseman. Their only album ‘Cinema’ featured contributions from Neal Schon and Steve Smith.

Sporting his trademark handlebar moustache, Tickner attended the unveiling of Journey’s star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2005.

RIP George Tickner.

Journey co-founder George Tickner dies aged 76