John Douglas, the singer and guitarist for Scottish indie rock band Trashcan Sinatras, has died at the age of 63.
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The band announced that Douglas passed away in the early hours of Monday, August 3, following what they described as a "brief illness."
His death came just days after the release of the band's first studio album in a decade.
Rock Singer Dies Aged 63
Douglas' bandmates, Stephen, Davy, Paul and Frank, confirmed the heartbreaking news in a statement shared online.
"We are devastated to inform all of you that we have lost our dear friend and brother John after a brief illness," the statement read.
"John died peacefully in the early hours of Monday the 3rd August 2026, surrounded by loved ones, his beautiful voice and songs filling the room."
Although he was not a founding member, Douglas joined Trashcan Sinatras in 1986 and went on to perform on all seven of the band's studio albums.
The band released their debut record, Cake, in 1990, and it reached No. 55 on the UK Albums Chart. It also peaked at No. 131 on the Billboard 200 in the United States.
On July 31, 2026, the band released Ever The Optimist, their first studio album in 10 years.
Douglas died only days after the album reached fans.
John Douglas Cherished Band's Reunion
In June, Trashcan Sinatras reunited for a special one-off 40th anniversary concert at Irvine's Harbour Arts Centre.
The performance marked the first time all five members had shared the stage in nearly seven years. The band also filmed a music video during the show.
"We were on stage, amongst friends and playing songs that were written over the many years... there was a lot of treasuring every minute, looking at each other. I am glad it was filmed and recorded," Douglas said after the performance.
"There is a real connection that music does that you don't get from anywhere else. To be part of the band doing that is a treasure and you only get it when you play."
Trashcan Sinatras remain best known for their signature song, "Obscurity Knocks", which featured on their acclaimed debut album.
Douglas leaves behind his wife, Eddi Reader, the singer of the BRIT Award-winning folk group Fairground Attraction.
