The Kinks and Zombies bassist Jim Rodford has died at the age of 76, after a fall on Saturday morning.

The musician, who was born and lived in St Albans all of his life, fell down the stairs; his cousin and bandmate from The Zombies, Rod Argent, has confirmed.

Rodford, who received an honorary doctorate from the University of Hertfordshire at St Albans Cathedral last year for services to music, has been a part of the music scene in the city ever since he was a member of the Bluetones in the 1950s and 60s.

In 1969, Rodford founded “Argent” alongside his cousin, Rod, Bob Henrit, and Russ Ballard. One of their most famous singles included Hold Your Head Up which reached number 5 in the UK and US billboards and God Gave Rock and Roll to You, which was later a hit for Kiss.

In 1978, Rodford got the gig of bass guitarist in The Kinks. He played with them until their disbandment in 1996.

Kinks guitarist Dave Davies tweeted: “I’m devastated Jim’s sudden loss I’m too broken up to put words together it’s  such a shock i always thought Jim would live forever in true rock and roll fashion - strange - great friend great musician great man - he was an integral part of theKinks later years RIP".


Having first been asked to join in 1961, Rodford became a member of The Zombies in 2004.

His cousin paid a touching tribute on social media, explaining that The Zombies held a place in Rodford’s heart since the 60s.

“Jim was not only a magnificent bass player, but also from the first inextricably bound to the story of The Zombies”, he wrote.

“An enormous enabler for us. He was actually the first person ever to be asked to join the band, way back in 1961.

“Because he was in the top St Albans band of the time, he turned us down at first, but from day one helped us chart our course. He was responsible for the first song I ever wrote, for The Bluetones.

“When I and Colin (Blunstone) put together our second incarnation in late 1999, our first phone call was to Jim. He gave us absolutely unflagging commitment, loyalty and unbelievable energy for eighteen years, and our gratitude is beyond measure.

“To the end, Jim's life was dedicated to music. He was unfailingly committed to local music - an ever present member of the local scene in St.Albans, where he had spent his whole life.

“Jim was a wonderful person, loved by everybody. When Colin and I, shocked and hardly able to talk, shared the news this morning, Colin said "I've never heard anyone say a bad word about him..."

“He will be unbelievably missed. Goodnight and God Bless dear friend”.

Rodford leaves behind his wife, Jean, and two sons, Steve and Russell.