Patrick Walden remembered as one of the best guitarists to have ever lived
As tributes poured in for the late Babyshambles musician aged 46, Patrick Walden was remembered as one of the best guitarists to have ever lived by fans and fellow rockers.
Patrick Walden has been remembered as one of the best guitarists to have ever lived.
The musician, who was part of rock group Babyshambles alongside Pete Doherty, Drew McConnell, Mick Whitnall and Adam Ficek, passed away aged 46, with his passing announced on Friday (20.06.25) night on the band’s Facebook page.
A statement from the band said: “It is with deep regret and sadness that we share the news of Patrick Walden’s death.
“We feel very fortunate to have known, loved and worked with him and we kindly ask for respect and privacy during these difficult times.
“Peter, Drew, Mik, Adam.”
Tributes have since poured in on social media for the late musician, with one fan writing: “The best guitarist of my generation. Nobody's sounded as good since Asheton in the Stooges.”
Fellow indie band, The Paddingtons, added: “You’re gonna be missed Pat, best guitarist we ever met, one of the good guys. Rest in peace mate.”
One fan also recalled their exchange with the musician, saying online: “I’m devastated by this news. Pat was a kind soul. I remember his kind words and how he helped me after I was assaulted in Camden. An incredible musician. My deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.”
Pete Doherty is due to perform with The Libertines on Glastonbury’s Pyramid Stage in a week’s time.
The group’s current members include Doherty, McConnell, Mick Withnall, and Adam Ficek.
Pete shared the band’s announcement of Patrick’s death on his social media.
Patrick performed in a variety of bands including Fluid, the Six Cold Thousand and The White Sport - before he joined Babyshambles back in 2003.
He also worked as a live guitarist and as a session musician for a number of well-known artists, including James Blunt and Whitey.
Babyshambles, formed by Pete during a hiatus from the Libertines, released three albums together – Down in Albion (2005), Shotter's Nation (2007) and 2013’s Sequel to the Prequel.
The Libertines reformed in 2014, but Babyshambles continued to perform sporadic shows and festivals throughout that year.
In 2024, Pete revealed that a Babyshambles reunion was in the works.
He said the band were hoping to reunite to mark the 20th anniversary of their debut album.
Pete told NME at the time: "It is on the cards. We will get back together and get in a room with the instruments and play through the old songs, then get on stage and do it.
"But it’s the who and the when that needs to be worked out. I think we’ll just keep that one on the horizon and deal with that one next year."
