Ian Hampton: key obituary facts
Is Ian Hampton dead? Yes. Ian Hampton died on June 4, 2026, at age 79.
Cause of death: Ian Hampton's cause of death has not been publicly confirmed.
What was Ian Hampton known for?
Ian Hampton was a Scottish bassist.
More about Ian Hampton
Genres: Art pop, art rock, glam rock, electronic, synth-pop, new wave.
Years active: 1968–present.
Ian Hampton, the Scottish bassist who performed with Sparks, died on June 4, 2026, at the age of 79.
Associated with the art pop, art rock, glam rock, electronic, synth-pop and new wave worlds, Hampton was part of a group whose 1968 beginnings in Los Angeles under the name Halfnelson preceded a long career built around brothers Ron and Russell Mael. Sparks became known for sharply written songs and a theatrical stage presence, with later successes including “This Town Ain’t Big Enough for Both of Us,” “The Number One Song in Heaven,” and “Beat the Clock.” The band’s later work included Lil’ Beethoven in 2002 and the 2015 collaboration FFS with Franz Ferdinand.