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Francis Buchholz is dead. The long-time member of the Scorpions died of cancer on January 22, 2026 at the age of 71. Buchholz played bass with the Scorpions for 19 years – from “Fly to the Rainbow” (1974) to “Crazy World” (1990).
His time in the band fell exactly into the absolute heyday of the Hanoverian group. Reason enough to take a look at the most important songs from Buchholz’s career – which unsurprisingly read like a best of the Scorpions.
Francis Buchholz: His best songs with the Scorpions
1. “Speedy’s Coming” (on: “Fly to the Rainbow”, 1974)
The first song that Francis Buchholz can be heard on with the Scorpions. His debut, instrumentally simple but extremely effective. The bass stands out beautifully grating, Buchholz’ lines are catchy and memorable. 3:34 minutes of classic hard rock with lots of guitar solos.
2. “Fly to the Rainbow” (on: “Fly to the Rainbow”, 1974)
The title track shows the band in an experimental mood – with the courage to indulge in excess. 9 minutes 40 seconds with lots of suspense and a dramaturgy that is almost proggy by Scorpions standards. Buchholz’ bass connects the early phase with the later Scorpions sound.
3. “In Trance” (on: “In Trance”, 1975)
Mid-tempo stomper with ballad parts from the mid-seventies, which set the trend for the Scorpions and Buchholz. Buchholz’ bass playing doesn’t stand out, but it does exactly what it’s supposed to do.
4. “Lovedrive” (on: “Lovedrive”, 1979)
The international breakthrough began with this album. Buchholz’s bass lines gallop forward so much that you almost want to give him the “Steve Harris approved” certificate. Great catchy song, the entire “Scorps” team in top form.
5. “The Zoo” (on: “Animal Magnetism”, 1980)
The “Scorps” can groove, even slowly, if they want. The Hanoverians proved this impressively with “The Zoo”. Buchholz’ bass plays a key role here and gives the piece its heaviness.
6. “Blackout” (on: “Blackout”, 1982)
The title track of the long player released in 1982 with the iconic Helnwein cover. The Scorpions had long since perfected their energetic, catchy hard rock, everything is right here. Of course also Buchholz’ bass accompaniment.
7. “Rock You Like A Hurricane” (1984, “Love At First Sting”
Of course, the mega hit “Rock You Like A Hurricane” shouldn’t be missing here either: a classic hard rock song with big Klaus Meine hooks and everything that defines the Scorpions.
8. “No One Like You” (on “Blackout”, 1982)
Straightforward construction, strong in the chorus, played straight to the point – a song that precisely summarizes the Scorpions sound of this phase.
9. “Big City Nights” (on “Love at First Sting”, 1984)
Classic. The cheerful Jabs riff, the pumping quarter bass drum, Rudi Schenker’s catchy lead lines. “Big City Nights” is a song about touring life between city lights and hotel rooms. The album became a commercial mega success for the band.
10. “Wind of Change” (on “Crazy World”, 1990)
Sure, this shouldn’t be missing. After all, “Wind of Change” is the Scorpions’ biggest hit that achieved political-historical relevance. Written after the Moscow tour in 1989, the song became a symbol of the political upheaval in Europe. Successful worldwide – and also included on the band’s last studio album with Francis Buchholz.
Scorpions: Statement on the death of Francis Buchholz
The Scorpions released a statement on their social networks regarding the death of their former band member. It says: “We have just received the very sad news that our long-time friend and bassist Francis Buchholz has died.”
The musicians emphasize that his legacy with the band will live on, as will the many shared memories. The band’s thoughts are with his wife Hella, his family and his friends. Finally, Klaus Meine, Rudolf Schenker and Matthias Jabs say goodbye with the words: “Rest in peace, Francis.”