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Hot Chocolate Bassist Tony Wilson Dies at 89
28 Apr
Summary
- Tony Wilson, bassist for Hot Chocolate, passed away at 89.
- He co-founded the band and was known for the hit 'You Sexy Thing'.
- His son shared heartfelt tributes, highlighting his musical dedication.
Tony Wilson, a foundational member and bassist of the celebrated band Hot Chocolate, has died at the age of 89. His passing was confirmed by his family on Friday, April 24, 2026. Wilson, who formed the band with Errol Brown in 1968, leaves behind a significant musical legacy.
Born in Trinidad, Wilson embarked on his music career with various groups before meeting Brown. Together, they achieved numerous hits, including "Love is Life" and "Emma," with "You Sexy Thing" becoming an international success. The song was famously featured in the 1997 film The Full Monty.
Wilson departed Hot Chocolate in 1975 to pursue a solo career. His son shared profound admiration for his father's unwavering dedication, recalling how Wilson's old diaries from the Seventies illuminated the immense challenges and hard work behind his musical aspirations. These memories were deeply cherished during a recent trip to Trinidad.
Hot Chocolate continued to perform after Wilson's departure. The band experienced further losses with the deaths of lead singer Errol Brown in 2015 and original guitarist Franklyn Delano De Allie in 2018.
