Pinoy rock legend Wally Gonzalez passes away

Music legend Wally Gonzalez died on Friday, July 23.

His death was confirmed by his son, John Gonzalez, who publicly posted a social media update regarding his father.

He wrote, "My father Wally Gonzalez passed away peacefully in his sleep earlier this morning. To his friends in the music industry and off, we are arranging for a short wake so that you can visit him post-cremation, as was his last wish. I will be posting updates soon."

Earlier this year, a fundraiser was put up for Wally's medical expenses after he suffered a stroke and had complications from diabetes, and pneumonia. He has also tested positive for COVID-19.

Wally is a bluesman and musician who has been active in the industry since the 1960s. He is well known for being a part of the Juan de la Cruz Band, which rose to fame in the 1970s and became the first OPM rock band in the Philippines.

He played guitar for Juan de la Cruz Band and was among the founding members along with drummer Edmund Fortuno. Singer-drummer Pepe Smith and singer-bassist Mike Hanopol, later on, joined the group. The group had a roster of members over the years including Sandy Tagarro, Edmund Fortuno, Bing Labrador, Alex Cruz, Clifford Ho, Bobot Guerrero, Larry Martinez, Tony Rodriguez.

Among their greatest hits were "Himig Natin," "Kahit Anong Mangyari," "No Touch," "Titser's Enemy No. 1," and "Beep Beep."

Wally also worked as a businessman and was a treasurer for a shipping company. In 1995, he founded the band Wally and Friends with Dondi Ledesma, Wowie Posadas, Joonie, Centeno, and Armand Quimpo. One of his famous instrumental pieces was "Wally's Blues," from his second solo album On the Road.

His fans have shared their condolences and memories with the rock icon through social media.

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