Direct answer: Tony Wilson, the bassist and co-founder of Hot Chocolate, has died. Most reports indicate he passed away in Trinidad and that he was either 78 or 89, with some outlets listing 78 and others 89 in late April 2026.
What this means for you:
- If you’re tracking obituaries or tributes, major outlets in the UK and globally began reporting his death around April 27–28, 2026, with family confirmations confirming his passing in Trinidad. This aligns with the latest-breaking news cycle as of April 2026. [news outlets referenced in coverage]
- He was a key figure in Hot Chocolate, contributing to iconic songs like You Sexy Thing and Emma, helping define the band’s sound in the 1970s. [biographical coverage]
Would you like a brief timeline of Tony Wilson’s career highlights, or a curated set of source links from reputable outlets for verification and further reading? If you prefer, I can compile a one-paragraph obituary-style summary suitable for a tribute.
Sources
The singer co-founded Hot Chocolate in 1969
www.gbnews.comThe Trinidad-born musician wrote soulful hits including You Sexy Thing and Emma in the 1970s.
www.bbc.comHot Chocolate bassist Tony Wilson has died aged 78, his daughter has confirmed, with the star passing away in Trinidad. He co-wrote the band's iconic 1975 hit You Sexy Thing.
www.walesonline.co.ukTony Wilson, the bassist and co-founder of 1970s band Hot Chocolate, has died at the age of 78 in Trinidad - he is credited with co-writing the group's best-known hit 'You Sexy Thing'
www.liverpoolecho.co.ukTony Wilson, the bassist and songwriter, has died.
www.express.co.ukHot Chocolate Bassist Tony Wilson, co-writer of 'You Sexy Thing' and 'Emma,' died aged 89 at his home in Trinidad, and his family paid tribute.
www.el-balad.comHot Chocolate bassist and songwriter Tony Wilson has died in Trinidad, his family confirmed, leaving behind a legacy that helped shape British soul music.
www.inkl.comTony Wilson co-founder of British soul band Hot Chocolate dies at age of 89 at his home in Trinidad.
www.hindustantimes.comThe Trinidad-born musician wrote soulful hits including You Sexy Thing and Emma in the 1970s.
ground.newsBassist and songwriter was key to Hot Chocolate's 1970s hits
www.newser.com