EMF has announced the death of founding member and keyboardist Derry Brownson, aged 55. The English alternative rock band shared the news via a social media post on Friday, August 14, confirming they learned of his passing the previous night.
“Late last night we started to hear the news that we have lost our Brother In Arms Derran Brownson,” the band wrote, accompanied by a photo of Brownson performing on stage.
“We are devastated, the only solace we can find is that we are eternally grateful Derry was able to join us on stage a couple times just a few short months back. Nothing will ever be the same again without our band mate and friend, fly high brother Derry.”
According to BBC Gloucestershire, Brownson had been diagnosed with a brain tumor and was undergoing treatment. Born in 1971, Derran “Derry” Brownson was a founding member of the Gloucestershire-based alternative rock group, remaining as their keyboardist and sample player after the band achieved prominence in the early 1990s.
The group’s chart-toing debut single, “Unbelievable,” and their 1991 album “Schubert Dip,” which peaked at Number Three on the UK Charts with singles “I Believe” and “Children,” solidified their legacy. They paused in 2002 after the death of original bassist Zac Foley but reunited in 2022 for their first new album in 27 years, “Go Go Sapiens,” and most recently released “The Beauty And The Chaos” in 2024.
Industry figures extended condolences, including Ash’s Tim Wheeler, who wrote, “So sorry for your loss, rest in peace Derry, sending love,” and guitarist Will Crewdson, who added, “Lots of love and strength to you guys. Very sorry to hear.” Tributes also came from bands such as Dictator and Therapy, as well as producer Tommie Sunshine, who remarked, “Such sad news.”
Singer-songwriter Kirk Brandon shared on X: “Deeply saddened by his departure. Love and respect to him and his family. The world is less for one man.” Additional fan and artist tributes were posted across social media platforms.
Derry Brownson has departed this reality. Wolves supporter. EMF
Deeply saddened by his departure.
Love and respect to him and his family.
The world is less for one man. pic.twitter.com/UWSb2DmJcS— KIRK BRANDON (@kirkbrandon) August 14, 2026
So sad about Derry #EMF pic.twitter.com/O8e0HFj3MV
— Helen Pugh (@Brockyhockey) August 14, 2026
RIP Derry #EMF pic.twitter.com/remkK0h6Ot
— Boffy (@BoffyWTFC) August 14, 2026
Such sad news, Derry from EMF has died
— SprostonCharlatan (@mrs_harket) August 14, 2026
The announcement follows news that the band had recently concluded work on their upcoming 14-track album earlier this summer.
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