Francis Buchholz facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Francis Buchholz
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Buchholz performing in 2012
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| Background information | |
| Born | 19 February 1954 Hanover, Lower Saxony, West Germany |
| Died | 22 January 2026 (aged 71) |
| Genres | |
| Occupation(s) | Bassist |
| Years active | 1969–2026 |
Francis Buchholz was a talented German musician. He was best known as the bass guitarist for the famous German rock band Scorpions. He played with them from 1973 until 1992. After leaving Scorpions, he continued his musical journey with other groups, including Michael Schenker's Temple of Rock. Francis Buchholz passed away on January 22, 2026, at the age of 71.
Contents
Francis Buchholz: A Journey Through Rock Music
Early Steps into Music
Francis Buchholz was born in Hanover, West Germany, on February 19, 1954. He discovered his love for rock music when he was just 11 years old. By age 15, he was already performing as a bass player in his high school band. From then on, he played in various rock, blues, and jazz bands in his hometown.
While studying mechanical engineering and music, Francis joined a band called Dawn Road. This band included a guitarist named Uli Roth. In 1973, the musicians from Dawn Road and another band, Scorpions, decided to join forces. This created a new version of the Scorpions, with Francis Buchholz as their bassist.
Rocking the World with Scorpions
Francis Buchholz's first album with the Scorpions was Fly to the Rainbow in 1974. He remained a key member of the band for 18 years. During this time, they recorded 12 albums. This period was the most successful for the Scorpions. They sold over 15 million records in the United States alone. Worldwide, they sold more than 100 million records!
For his amazing success with the Scorpions, Francis received over 50 gold and platinum awards. These awards celebrated their incredible record sales around the globe. His last album with the Scorpions was Crazy World. This album included a song called "Kicks After Six," which Francis helped write.
Francis left the band in 1992 due to some differences of opinion about how the band was managed. Even though he left, many people believe his departure marked the end of the band's most famous era.
New Musical Adventures
After leaving Scorpions, Francis Buchholz continued to make music. In 2005 and 2006, he reunited with his former bandmate Uli Roth for a tour across Europe and the United States.
In 2008, Francis worked with a band called Dreamtide. He played bass and helped produce their album, Dream And Deliver.
Later, in 2012, Francis toured with another former Scorpions guitarist, Michael Schenker. This tour was called the "Temple of Rock - Lovedrive Reunion Tour." He played alongside other talented musicians, including former Scorpions drummer Herman Rarebell. They released a live album and video called Temple of Rock - Live in Europe.
Francis also played bass on Michael Schenker's Temple of Rock albums Bridge the Gap (2013) and Spirit On A Mission (2015). They toured extensively, performing in Europe, Mexico, South America, Japan, and the US.
Beyond the Stage: His Life and Legacy
In 1978, Francis Buchholz started a company called Rocksound in Germany. This company rented out sound systems and stage lights. It also helped provide jobs for the Scorpions' road crew when they weren't on tour.
Francis lived in Hanover with his wife, Hella. They had a son and twin daughters. In 1996, he wrote a book called Bass Magic, sharing his knowledge about playing the bass guitar. He also worked as a record producer and music consultant.
Francis Buchholz passed away on January 22, 2026, after a battle with cancer. He was 71 years old. He is remembered for his important contributions to rock music and his time with the Scorpions.
See also
In Spanish: Francis Buchholz para niños
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