Larry Hoppen of Orleans Dead at 61
Singer / guitarist Larry Hoppen of Orleans died Tuesday (July 24) of unspecified causes. The popular soft-rock group had several massive hits in the ’70s, including ‘Still the One’ and ‘Dance With Me.’
Hoppen’s wife Patricia revealed the news on the musician’s Facebook page yesterday: “For those who don’t already know, Larry passed away yesterday… For his fans, I am deeply sorry for YOUR loss. I know he will be missed.”
The guitarist traveled to Woodstock, N.Y, to join Orleans in 1972 at the request of his friend (and future U.S. Congressman) John Hall. Hoppen’s brother Lance soon joined the group, who went on to release a string of hit albums, highlighted by 1976′s ‘Still the One,’ which went on to live a long life in commercials and movies, as well as becoming the theme song for the ABC television network.
Hoppen endured as a member of Orleans right up until his passing, through a series of lineup changes and short-lived breakups. He also released two solo albums and worked to support HIV and anti-hunger charities, including the Queens Gallery soup kitchen near his longtime home of Woodstock. As he told the Times-Record Herald in 2008, “The need is so great, especially in these times.”
He is survived by his wife, Patricia Smith Hoppen, his daughters Claire and Maeve, his bothers Lance and Lane (also a member of Orleans) and his sister, Lynda.
A recent posting on Hoppen’s Facebook page notes that “since Larry’s passion was feeding hungry people, his friends and fans can honor his memory by making a contribution to their local food bank in his name.”
Watch Orleans Perform ‘Still the One’