Andrew McLan “Andy” Fraser was an English songwriter and bass guitarist whose career lasted over forty years and includes a notable period as one of the founding members, in 1968, at age 15, of the rock band Free.
An official statement says: “Andrew McLan Fraser passed away on Monday at his home in California. He leaves behind his daughters Hannah and Jasmine Fraser, and their mother Ri, his sister Gail, brothers Gavin and Alex, and many friends and associates in the industry.
“A survivor of both cancer and AIDS, Andy was a strong social activist and defender of individual human rights.”
Fraser was born in London in 1952 and was a founding member of Free at the age of just 15. As well as his work with Free, he had success with John Mayall & the Bluesbreakers and Sharks.
ClassicRock.com noted, Fraser had recently been a leading light in the Rock Against Trafficking charity. President Gary Miller said: “My dear friend did so much for the organisation, and for me personally. He was my little big brother and one of the greatest bass players and songwriters of all time.”
FREE – All Right Now, from the Album, Fire and Water
Year: 1970