Forests of Dean Musician and EMF Keyboardist Derry Brownson Dies After Brain Tumour Battle

Derry Brownson, the keyboardist and founding member of the 1990s band EMF, has died at the age of 55 after a battle with a brain tumour.

Brownson, from the Forest of Dean in Gloucestershire, was part of the group that achieved international fame with their hit “Unbelievable,” which reached number three on the UK charts in 1990 and became one of the decade’s most iconic songs.

The band, known for its alternative rock style, started when Brownson met singer James Atkin, drummer Mark Decloedt, and bassist Zac Foley at school in the Forest of Dean. They formed EMF, an acronym for “Epsom Mad Funkers,” a name inspired by a term created by a New Musical Express writer to describe fans of the band New Order.

EMF quickly rose to prominence, securing a recording contract with EMI after only four gigs. Their rapid success was marked by the swift release of “Unbelievable,” which garnered worldwide acclaim.

His fellow bandmates paid tribute to Brownson, stating: “Late last night we started to hear the news that we have lost our Brother In Arms, Derry Brownson. We are devastated. The only solace we can find is that we are eternally grateful Derry was able to join us on stage a couple of times just a few short months back. Nothing will ever be the same again without our bandmate and friend. Fly high, brother Derry.”

Brownson had been undergoing treatment for a brain tumour prior to his passing. His death coincides with the band’s recent announcement that they completed recording a new 14-track album earlier this summer.

Tributes have also poured in from fellow musicians. Tim Wheeler of Ash expressed his condolences, saying, “So sorry for your loss, rest in peace Derry, sending love.” Guitarist and writer Will Crewdson commented, “Lots of love and strength to you guys. Very sorry to hear.” The band Dictator added, “We’re very sorry to hear team EMF, thoughts are with you all and loved ones.”