Music legend Molly Baron from the local band, The Rockets has died at age 68.
Molly, whose real name John Arthur Baron, died at Victoria Hospital on Thursday evening, after he was admitted three weeks ago. His cause of death is yet to be confirmed.
Molly’s sudden passing came as a shock to his and friends in the music industry.
Fellow musician Aubrey Arries, 61, tells the Daily Voice his long-time friend was in the process of releasing his latest solo album which was meant to be released in time for Christmas.
“We were going to sign the papers in Durbanville with SA Music Library three weeks ago, and Molly was supposed to meet us there.
“He arrived at my house at 12pm and he was staggering out of the car and told me he’s not feeling well. We both have high blood pressure and because we both use the same tablets, he asked me for one of mine.
“He assumed (he wasn’t feeling well) because he didn't eat and I offered to make him something to eat. He asked if he could lay down so my wife and I made him comfortable and he slept for an hour,” says Aubrey.
Aubrey says Molly was admitted to hospital the next day and was expected to be discharged on Monday.
“(After) he was admitted to hospital his family had his phone so I couldn't speak to him directly. On Monday (this week), they said he was going to be discharged then I left it. On Tuesday he was still in hospital and by Wednesday I knew something wasn't right and then I got the news on Friday that he was gone.”
Molly, who was one of the original members of The Rockets, joined the band in 1967 as a drummer along with fellow band members Robbie Jansen, George Carelse, Carlo Carelse and Walter Brown.
The group became a hit and saw various members come and go over the years, including the likes of Jonathan Butler, Colin “Bones” Delight, Theo Watt and Jerry Watt who is currently still keeping the band going.