Television Guitarist Richard Lloyd Dies at 75

Lloyd’s guitar work helped give Television its distinctive sound, weaving intricate lines with co-guitarist and singer Tom Verlaine. The band emerged from New York’s downtown music scene in the 1970s and became a leading act at CBGB, the Manhattan club that helped foster punk and other new music.

Television’s 1977 album “Marquee Moon” became its defining release. Its intricate arrangements stood apart from the power-chord style common among many punk bands. The group split in 1978 after releasing a second album, “Adventure,” with Lloyd’s heroin addiction and mental health struggles contributing to the break-up.

Born Richard John Alt in Pittsburgh in 1951, Lloyd grew up in Greenwich Village and began playing guitar as a child. He joined Television in 1974, after Verlaine and bassist Richard Hell had formed the band with drummer Billy Ficca. Fred Smith replaced Hell in 1975.

After the band split, Lloyd released nine solo albums and played on recordings by other artists, including Matthew Sweet’s 1991 album “Girlfriend.” Television reunited in 1992 and played together again in later years, though Lloyd was often absent. Verlaine died in 2023.

Lloyd was diagnosed with bile duct cancer in March. He is survived by his wife, Sheila O’Keefe Lloyd; his son, Dylan; and his brother, Eric.