Former Queen Bassist Barry Mitchell Dies: ‘He Will Be Greatly Missed’

Barry Mitchell, who briefly played bass for Queen in the band's early years, has died.

The legendary rock band's official archivist, Greg Brooks, confirmed Mitchell's death in a Facebook post on Thursday (Aug. 20). Mitchell played with the legendary rock group from 1970 to 1971, before John Deacon joined as Queen's longtime bassist.

"Terribly sad news just received that early Queen bass player (circa 1970), Barry Mitchell, has passed away," Brooks wrote alongside a photo of the late musician. "He will be greatly missed."

Mitchell was the second bassist to play with the "Bohemian Rhapsody" hitmakers, following Mike Grose. Queen released its self-titled debut album in 1973.

Looking back on his time with the rock group in a 2018 interview with Rolling Stone, Mitchell recalled performing around England while the band was still developing its sound. He also admitted that he didn't recognize Queen's potential at the time.

"I didn't see the potential," he said. "It's crazy to say this now, but it's the truth."

After leaving the band, Mitchell continued his music career, performing with acts such as Crushed Butler.

No cause of death has been publicly announced.