Patrick Walden, guitarist for the British rock group Babyshambles, has died at the age of 46. The band was founded in 2004 by Pete Doherty after he was kicked out of The Libertines, and featured Walden on guitars alongside Doherty on vocals, Drew McConnell on bass, and Gemma Clarke on drums. The group announced Walden’s passing on Instagram on Friday (June 20), sharing a photo of the late musician alongside the caption: “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.” Walden, a London native who previously played with Fluid and White Sport, co-wrote six songs on Babyshambles’ 2005 debut album, Down in Albion.” He ultimately left the group in 2005 due to personal challenges that included drug abuse and accusations of assaulting his girlfriend, which led to a brief incarceration, though the charges were inevitably dropped. (Variety)
