Randy Rand, founding Autograph bassist, dies: 'Fabulous bassist, bandmate, brother and human being'

Randy Rand, a founding member and bassist of the glam metal band Autograph, died Tuesday.

Rand's death "came as a consequence of some existing heart problems," according to Mario de Riso, a spokesperson from Frontiers Music Srl, who confirmed his death to Paste BN Thursday. 

The band announced the "unexpected passing" of Rand in a social media post on Tuesday. At the time of his death, the band said the founding member and "cherished friend" was surrounded by his "beautiful and infinite love," his wife Regina Rand, and his family. 

The band continued: "Although beyond devastated, we find some comfort and solace knowing the last couple of years have been some of his happiest as an artist and as a performer."

Rand, who was already a seasoned and accomplished musician by the time he rose to prominence with Autograph, was a "consummate optimist and was so excited to see the new direction, creativity and renewed energy with the band." 

"You could feel his excitement," the statement read. "As it was quite palpable with his playing abilities, performances and the way he interacted with his beloved fans." 

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Autograph, which formed in Pasadena, California, in 1984, is best known for the metal anthem "Turn Up the Radio." The song marked Autograph's only top-40 hit, making them a one-hit-wonder. 

"Fast forward 40 years, our brother was still making an impact in the music arena with his charismatic stage presence, musical contributions," the band's Facebook statement continued. 

The rock band is currently made up of: guitarist Jimi Bell, lead singer Simon Daniels and drummer Marc Wieland. Daniels, a Brazilian singer from Rio de Janeiro, replaced original lead singer Steve Plunkett after he quit in 2013. Plunkett originally started Autograph as a solo project after leaving the band Silver Condor. 

"Regrettably, there is only one Randy," the band wrote, calling Rand a "fabulous bassist bandmate, brother and human being. Collectively in the last couple of years with this formation, we spent numerous hours that turned into something magical while creating an unbreakable bond few bands are fortunate enough to ever experience."

The band added they will continue to honor Rand and "keep his legacy alive." 

They also asked fans to respect their privacy and thanked them for the "continued love, support and light that all of you have shown him and us as we navigate these sad days ahead of us."