Co-Founder Of King Crimson And Foreigner, Ian McDonald Dies At 75

Sad news for classic rock fans today. Ian McDonald, who founded progressive rock innovator King Crimson and arena rock megalith Foreigner, passed away at age 75. 

McDonald passed away at his home in New York, surrounded by family. His son wrote the following tribute to his father

Via People:

“He was incredibly brave, and never lost his kindness or his sense of humor even when the going was rough,” he wrote. “My father was a brilliant, intuitive musician, a gentle soul, and a wonderful dad. He will live on forever through his beautiful music and the love of his fans. Thank you all.”

Ian McDonald Life and Career

Before becoming a member of two of the most influential rock bands of all time, McDonald spent five years as a musician in the British Army, where he learned to play the saxophone and clarinet.

McDonald joined several progressive rock groups before forming King Crimson with brothers Michael and Peter Giles. He played woodwinds and contributed percussion and backup vocals for their seminal first album, In The Court Of The Crimson King. McDonald would get together with several alums of Crimson to form 21st Century Schizoid Band, which acted as a revival of King Crimson and toured playing their songs. 

He reunited with Michael Giles to produce McDonald & Giles, considered a sleeper classic by many music journalists.

Following King Crimson’s disbandment, McDonald co-founded Foreigner with guitarist Mick Jones and vocalist Lou Gramm. With Foreigner, McDonald contributed to three Foreigner albums (Foreigner, Double Vision, and Head Games.)

In addition to his success in these classic bands, McDonald was a highly sought-after session musician and contributed to movie and theatrical soundtracks. 

Fans and Fellow Musicians Pay Tribute to Ian McDonald

Share your memories of King Crimson and Foreigner in the comment section below.