The Damned guitarist bequeaths fortune to family: what is known about his will.

The death of a rock music legend

According to The Sun: The British rock legend, one of the founders of the iconic band The Damned, left a huge legacy for his family after his tragic death.

Iconic guitarist Brian James bequeathed over half a million pounds to his beloved wife after his death in March at the age of 74.

Redferns

Documents indicate that the musician left his spouse assets worth £508,321 after deductions.

The punk icon also passed his cherry Gibson guitar to his son Charlie.

Burial at sea

In his will, dated December 2017, Brian expressed a desire to be buried at sea.

The musician's body was buried on the seabed near the coast of Newhaven, East Surrey.

Nine friends and relatives, including his wife Minna, set off from Eastbourne to witness the burial on April 28.

This took place after a small memorial service at a church near their home in Brighton.

Minna told The Sun: “It was a wonderful day, and the sea was calm. We’ve been together since we were 18, so it was very emotional. A sea burial is quite unusual, but it was in his will, so we had to do it.”

The local funeral company had to apply for a certificate from the Marine Management Organization.

The musician died at the age of 74 on March 6.

A source stated: 'Brian is now sleeping with the fishes, which was his wish before he died. He was a true original in life and remained so in death. The spirit of punk rock never left him, and he was adamant that he wanted his final resting place to be at sea.'

Remembering Brian James

Following his death, a message was posted on his Facebook page: “With great sadness, we announce the passing of one of the true pioneers of music, guitarist, songwriter, and a true gentleman, Brian James.”

The legendary musician, who collaborated with names like Iggy Pop and Black Sabbath, passed away on Thursday.

Brian, remembered as a 'pioneer and true gentleman', was recognized internationally for his role in the band The Damned.

He is considered the author of the first British punk single 'New Rose'.

After forming The Damned, Brian left the group to create Tanz Der Youth, and then formed The Lords of the New Church with Steve Bator.

This duo released three successful studio albums and hits such as 'Open Your Eyes', 'Dance with Me' and 'Method to My Madness'.

But Brian did not stop there.

He continued his career with The Dripping Lips and Brian James Gang, leading to the creation of several solo albums.

Brian was the main songwriter on the band’s debut album, 'Damned Damned Damned'. The memory of Brian James lives on not only in his work but in the hearts of his fans. His contributions to punk music and influence on subsequent generations of musicians remain indelible. In celebrating his life, fans may recall stories of his creativity and remember how he changed music and the culture of his time.