This week, founding member of the ‘90s alternative rock band “Cake,” Greg Brown, passed away at the age of 56. Brown wrote the group’s enduring classic song, “The Distance,” along with many other hits.
In 1991, Brown co-founded “Cake,” alongside bandmates John McCrea, Vince DiFiore, Shon Meckfessel, and Frank French. The guitarist recorded two albums with the band, titled “Motorcade of Generosity” and “Fashion Nugget.”
The band wrote the following remembrance on their Facebook page following the news, saying, “It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of Greg Brown’s passing after a brief illness. Greg was an integral part of CAKE’s early sound and development. His creative contributions were immense, and his presence—both musical and personal—will be deeply missed. Godspeed, Greg.”
Following the release of their album titled “Fashion Nugget” in 1996, the group rose to stardom, led by their hit “The Distance,” which was written by Brown.
In 1997 Brown left the band before the release of their third album, titled “Prolonging the Magic.”
After leaving “Cake,” in 1998 Brown joined “Deathray,” for which he played lead guitar and sang backup vocals, also writing for the band’s debut album, which was released in 2000.
Five years later, Brown recorded his second album with “Deathray” titled “Believe Me.”
As well as his work as a writer and artist, Greg Brown also worked as a music producer, working on projects such as “Puckett’s Versus the Country Boy” by Matt Sharp and co-producing the debut album for “Golden Shoulders.”
Brown passed away as a result of a brief, unspecified illness.
Rest in peace!
