Tony Bellamy, the lead guitarist, pianist and vocalist of the Native American rock band Redbone, died on December 25, 2009, at the age of 63. He was a talented and influential musician who helped bring Native American culture and music to the mainstream. But what was the cause of his death and how did he live his life?
Early Life and Career
Tony Bellamy was born Robert Anthony Avila on September 12, 1946, in Orange County, California. He was of Mexican-American and Yaqui Indian descent. He grew up in a family of dancers and musicians and learned to play the flamenco guitar as part of his musical education. He also played in various bands in the 1960s, such as Dobie Gray, Peter and the Wolves, and Moby Grape.
In 1968, he met brothers Pat and Lolly Vegas, who were also of Native American heritage. They invited him to join their band Redbone, which was a term for a mixed-race person. The band aimed to showcase their Native American roots and culture through their music, lyrics, costumes, and album art. They signed with Epic Records in 1969 and released their debut album Redbone the following year.
Success with Redbone
Redbone achieved commercial success in the 1970s with their singles “Maggie”, “The Witch Queen of New Orleans”, “Wovoka”, and “Come and Get Your Love”. The latter was their biggest hit, reaching number 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1974. It also made them the first Native American band to reach the top five on the US charts. The song was certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (R.I.A.A.) and has been featured in various movies, TV shows, and video games.
Redbone also gained recognition for their live performances, which often included traditional Native American dances, chants, drums, and costumes. They played at various festivals and venues around the world, such as Carnegie Hall, Madison Square Garden, The Tonight Show, and The Midnight Special. They also performed at President Richard Nixon’s inaugural ball in 1973.
Later Years and Death
Redbone disbanded in 1977 after Lolly Vegas suffered a stroke. Tony Bellamy continued to play music with various bands and artists, such as Butch Rillera, Bim Bam, Pat Vegas, and John Lee Hooker. He also supported Native American causes and organizations, such as the Native American Music Awards (N.A.M.A.), where he was inducted into the Hall of Fame with Redbone in 2008.
On December 25, 2009, Tony Bellamy died of liver failure at a hospital in his hometown of Las Vegas. He was surrounded by his family and friends. He was survived by his wife Linda Bellamy, his daughter Lisa Bellamy-Williams, his son Robert Anthony Bellamy Jr., his grandchildren, his siblings, and his extended family.
Tony Bellamy was a pioneer and a legend in the Native American music scene. He left behind a legacy of songs that celebrate his heritage and inspire generations of listeners. He will always be remembered as a part of Redbone, one of the most successful Native American rock bands in history.
