Bob Rupe, the bassist for the popular 1990s alternative rock band Cracker, has died.
He was 68.
Rupe was also known for his time playing with The Silos.
Cracker shared the news of his death on Instagram.
“It is with a heavy heart that we share the passing of Bob Rupe,” the statement on the band’s page read. “Bob was the charismatic and talented bassists for Cracker from roughly 1994 to 1999. Along with the late Charlie Quintana, he formed the rhythm section that powered Cracker’s theatre and shed tours at the peak of the band’s popularity. Bob also played bass guitar on many Cracker recordings, most notably the albums The Golden Age and Gentleman’s Blues.
“Although Bob was not a man of many words, he was known for his sharp and concise wit,” the statement continued. “He had a lot of drag racing and vintage muscle cars. Indeed, the Cracker fan club release ‘Bob’s Car’ features a photo of his beloved Super Bee on the cover. In addition to his work with Cracker, Bob was a founding member of The Silos and Gutterball. He also played with House of Freaks and Sparklehorse.”
The statement said that Rupe was a “staple of the 1990s central Virginia music scene,” and said that he “will be missed by his many peers.”
“Bob is survived by his mother, Carol; his brothers, Tom and Dan; and his sister, Kathy, along with two nephews and two nieces,” the statement read. “The cause of his death is unknown at this time.”