RIP Larry Knechtel

Larry KnetchelBassist Larry Knechtel has passed away. Knechtel died August 20th at Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital in Yakima, Washington, at the age of 69. There is no official report for the cause of death, but it is believed he suffered a heart attack.

Knechtel had a long music career as a player and studio musician. He was a member of the 1970’s soft-rock group Bread. He joined Bread in 1971, after winning a Grammy for his arrangement of “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” to replace Robb Royer.

Knechtel also played with Elvis Presley, the Beach Boys, the Byrds, the Mamas and the Papas, the Dixie Chicks and was the bass guitarist, keyboardist and harmonica player in the Wrecking Crew. Along with Knechtel the Wrecking Crew included Glen Campell, Leon Russle and Hal Blaine. In 2007 he was inducted into the Nashville Musicians Hall of Fame along with the other member of the Wrecking Crew.

Knechtel is survived by his wife, children and grandchildren as well as members of his immediate family.

Get daily bass updates.

Get the latest news, videos, lessons, and more in your inbox every morning.

Share your thoughts