Robert Taylor, former Dragon lead guitarist, dies at 74

Robert Taylor, the former lead guitarist of the New Zealand–formed rock band Dragon, has died at the age of 74, his passing announced by former Dragon drummer Kerry Jacobson on social media. No cause of death has been disclosed and further details have not been released.

In his post, Jacobson described Taylor in personal terms, writing, "I'm writing to share the unexpected and devastating news of the passing of my mentor, my partner in crime for some of the best times, my musical comrade through the hardest of times and my dear friend of decades, the irreplaceable Robert Taylor." Jacobson added that Taylor was widely admired for his songwriting and musicianship, and for personal qualities including loyalty and a sharp memory. He concluded, "he was one of the good ones," and sent condolences to Taylor's family.

Born in Waipukarau, New Zealand, Taylor joined Dragon in 1974 after leaving Wellington band Mammal and became a member as the group moved its base to Sydney in the mid 1970s. He played with Dragon during two key periods, from 1974 to 1979 and again from 1982 to 1985, and was one of the last remaining members of the group's classic 1970s lineup. During those years he...