Artist News

Little Barrie drummer Virgil Howe dies

By Andy Malt | Published on Tuesday 12 September 2017

Little Barrie drummer Virgil Howe has died, aged 41. He was the son of Yes guitarist Steve Howe and the news was confirmed via the prog rock band’s Facebook page last night. The cause of death has not yet been made public.

Formed in 2000, Little Barrie are currently best known for writing the theme tune to ‘Breaking Bad’ spin-off ‘Better Call Saul’. The band released their latest album, ‘Death Express’, in July, and were due to begin a UK tour in Cambridge tonight.

Cancelling the tour, Howe’s Little Barrie bandmates Barrie Cadogan and Lewis Wharton issued statements this morning.

“We are heartbroken that we have lost our dear friend and brother Virgil Howe”, said Cadogan. “Our thoughts are with his daughter, family and partner. Please respect their privacy during this difficult time”.

Wharton added: “I am utterly devastated to lose my friend and a positive force in my life”.

Yes have also cancelled the remainder of their current tour, explaining in a statement last night: “Due to the tragic, unexpected death of guitarist Steve Howe’s beloved younger son, Virgil, Yes regrettably announces that the remaining dates of their Yestival Tour have been cancelled. Ticket refunds for the affected tour dates (in Moorhead, Cedar Rapids, London, Rochester, Boston and Huntington) will be available at point of purchase”.

They continued: “Yes – Steve Howe, Alan White, Geoff Downes, Jon Davison and Billy Sherwood – want to thank all their fans for their support and understanding at this time. Steve Howe and family ask for their privacy to be respected during this difficult time”.

Little Barrie premiered the video for new single ‘Produkt’ yesterday: