Mott the Hoople founding member, Pete Overend Watts, passed away today after succumbing to throat cancer. He was 69 years old. Angel Air Records released a statement describing Watts as a "highly intelligent and witty man who throughout his adult life was both an immensely likeable character and an enigma." His death comes almost exactly a year after Mott the Hoople drummer, Dale "Buffin" Griffin, passed.

Brian May (Queen)

RIP Pete Overend Watts. A gentle soul and a pure rock and roll heart.

Paul Stanley (KISS)

How sad. Pete "Overend" Watts-Bass player for legendary Mott the Hoople has died. It was a thrill to tour together.

Steven Hanley (The Fall)

Sad news Pete Overend Watts has died, he was one of the reasons we are all here.

John Harris (music critic)

Another great leaves us: Pete 'Overend' Watts.  Son of Hereford, great bass player

Pete Overend Watts Wikipedia Page