Founding Member Of Aussie Rock Outfit Candy Harlots Passes Away

Marc Lee Dé Hugar, a founding member of Australian rock group Candy Harlots, has passed away.

Vocalist of the group Mark Easton announced the passing of the “guitar genius” via Facebook.

“It’s with great sadness I regretfully have to tell you that the founding guitarist of the Candy Harlots, Marc DeHugar has passed away at 52 in hospital yesterday,” a statement from vocalist Mark Easton reads.

“Marc was 17 when he joined the band, after he played me a tape of his playing! He played so fast I thought he had sped the tape up, so I went around to his grandmothers house in Paddington to see if he was for real and he proceeded to blow me away totally! He was a guitar genius!

“We had some great times together! Our thoughts go out to his family, friends and fans! Until the next time we meet!”

Candy Harlots formed in 1987 and Dé Hugar was with the group for the release of single Red Hot Rocket but departed prior to their Foreplay EP and debut album Five Wicked Ways in 1992.

Following his departure from Candy Harlots, Dé Hugar performed with Brindle Suite, The Screaming Tribesmen and more.

As Loud Mag reports, Dé Hugar passed away following a long battle with emphysema.