The celebrated singer-songwriter, who wrote the hit ‘I Can’t Let Maggie Go’, has died aged 83 in London with tributes from heartbroken fans flooding social media
A legendary musician has passed away, prompting an outpouring of heartfelt tributes from devotees hailing him as “pop’s quiet genius”. Pete Dello, the talented singer-songwriter who found fame with the mid-1960s group Honeybus, has died aged 83. The Oxford-born artist is being fondly remembered across social media.
News of his passing emerged online before being officially confirmed through an obituary, revealing he died in London on 21 February. Whilst Dello launched his musical journey in the 1950s, it was his work with Honeybus during the mid-1960s that brought him widespread recognition, penning the beloved single I Can’t Let Maggie Go, which climbed into the UK Top 10 and achieved Top 20 status worldwide.
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Following the success of crafting this chart-topper for the group, Dello departed before their touring schedule commenced, subsequently releasing his solo record, Into Your Ears, in 1971. He stepped away from the music scene during the 1970s to pursue different endeavours, ultimately transitioning into music education, reports the Daily Star.
The track I Can’t Let Maggie Go enjoyed renewed popularity after featuring in a 1970s television advertisement for Nimble bread, providing him with continued royalties.
Following confirmation of his death, social media platforms were awash with tributes, with one admirer posting: “One of my true songwriting influences and musical heroes has passed after a sudden illness,” reports the Express.
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The user continued by celebrating his many beloved songs before concluding: “Thank you for everything”. Record label Guerssen wrote: “Farewell Pete Dello. What a fantastic songwriter and musician. It was a privilege working with you all these years.” Another admirer shared: “Farewell Pete Dello – pop’s quiet genius.”
The news came shortly after Hanky Panky Records expressed gratitude to MOJO magazine for a “surprise full page feature” on their social media, highlighting the Honeybus releases of Story and Recital and More: The Pete Dello Years.
Recital and More: The Pete Dello Years was released in October 2025 as part of The Honeybus Reappraisal Series, containing 26 tracks celebrating both the band and Pete Dello’s legacy.
If you have been affected by this story, Cruse Bereavement Support offers free help to make sense of how you are feeling. Click here for their website or call 0808 808 1677.
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